By Kate Bartlett
February 19-20 marks the 5th annual Mud Sweat n’ Gears x Blizzard/Tecnica Women 2 Women Project at HoliMont. Formerly known as Powder to Prosecco, this empowering event gathers likeminded females to connect in the camaraderie of skiing. This year also marks the 10th Anniversary of the Women 2 Women project started by skiing icon Leslie Baker Brown.
Kimberly Reading, owner of Mud Sweat n’ Gears, started the event 5 years ago in order to gather women together and empower them on the slopes. “Our goal is to teach women to not be intimidated on the slopes,” says Kim. “We invite women of all ages and abilities to join us in this incredible opportunity.” Guests are invited to meet and connect with other female skiers, as well as representatives from Blizzard/Tecnica Women 2 Women Project including Leslie Baker Brown.
The event has grown steadily since its inception, gaining momentum every year. This year, the event sold out sooner than ever before and has a wait list for potential attendees. “It’s a great event with great energy,” explains Kim. “We love welcoming back return guests and love seeing new faces. It’s a supportive environment of like-minded women; a great opportunity for women to ski alongside other women who love the sport.”
This year marks the 10th Anniversary of the Women 2 Women initiative, a global project to design authentic women’s products to bring passionate female skiers, regardless of ability, to new levels of confidence, excitement and freedom. As founder of the project, Leslie is a passionate skier and driven individual, championing the most progressive women’s program in the industry. “Leslie is an inspiration and her energy is captivating,” says Kim. “This is certainly a milestone to celebrate. We recognize Leslie’s achievements as the initiative continues to create space for women in skiing.”
Leslie has also developed nationwide scholarship programs through the Women to Women’s project, awarding scholarship funds to support women pursuing their passion in skiing. “This program is a wonderful support for women looking to further their education in any ski related field that is of interest of them. Leslie is an inspiration for women, and she’s looking to empower other women.” Scholarship winner and Ellicottville native Hanna Lee will be coming back to Ellicottville for the event. After winner a W2W scholarship in 2024, Hannah pursued her passion in bootfitting. She has since furthered her ski career in Boston, MA, where she is the one of the only female boot fitters at The Ski Monster. “We’re looking forward to welcoming Hanna back, and having her share her expertise throughout the event.”
The event kicks off Thursday, February 19, with an evening at Mud, Sweat n’ Gears with Leslie Baker Brown from 6-8PM. Guests are invited to indulge in wine and cheese while they get their skis waxed, mingle, and learn about new gear in the women’s ski industry.
Before a day of skiing on the slopes of HoliMont, the women are invited to attend an optional mat Pilates class from 7:30-8:15am with Ellicottville instructor Liz Berghash, owner of Core Connections Pilates and Fitness (+$20/person). Women are also invited to set out on a group alpine ski tour at Holimont at 7:30AM (no additional cost, just need their own alpine touring gear). “Both are great ways to start the day together in community.”
Friday, February 20, will be a full day of skiing and product demonstrations with Blizzard/ Tecnica Demo Day at HoliMont. This provides registrants the unique opportunity to try the award-winning collection of women’s skis from Blizzard/Tecnica and ski with Leslie Baker Brown and local Blizzard women ambassadors. “We encourage women to demo as many skis throughout the day. It’s a great opportunity to try the brand, find a good fit, and learn more about the equipment,” says Kim. PSIA (Professional Ski Institute of America) and Eastern Alpine Examiner, Aliie Doro, will be in attendance giving casual pointers and taking women out on the slopes.
Lunch will be provided by Dina’s at the Mont, and a raffle will be held mid-afternoon with prizes donated by women owned businesses in the industry. Guests are also invited to gather for an après ski party at The Banq from 5-7pm.