Set aside the next hour of your life and witness history. The video above, shot by Denver-based JSP Broadcast, showcases the 1992 World Extreme Skiing Championships (WESC) in Valdez, Alaska. Featuring skiing by the late Doug Coombs, Doug Conway, Pat “The Tahoe Terror” McIntyre, Jon Hunt and others, this is the true beginning of the big-mountain, extreme freeskiing movement.
Judged on degree of difficulty, aggressiveness, technique/style, air, control and fluidity, the WESC competition is a direct inspiration for the freeride competitions of today, such as the Freeride World Tour and its qualifying events.
With such “old school” equipment—long, straight skis, first-generation Smith and Oakley goggles, neon jackets, a noticeable lack of helmets—it’s awe-inspiring to watch these skiers face-off against one another on some of Alaska’s most notorious peaks.
For highlight reel footage, take a moment to enjoy the production’s introductory segment; for you die-hards out there that can’t get enough, sit back and feast your eyes on this little bit of skiing history in its entirety—it’s sure to please.
