By Kate Bartlett
February 20-21 marks the 4th annual Mud Sweat Gears x Blizzard/Tecnica Women 2 Women Project inspirational women’s weekend at HoliMont. Formerly known as Powder to Prosecco Women’s weekend, this empowering weekend gathers likeminded females to connect in the camaraderie of skiing. Guests are invited to meet and connect with representatives from Blizzard/Tecnica Women 2 Women Project including Marketing Director and ski enthusiast Leslie Baker Brown.
Kimberly Reading, owner of Mud Sweat Gears, started the event 4 years ago with the intention of gathering women together an empowering them on the slopes. “Our goal is to empower 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.”
Women Project to celebrate the camaraderie
of women skiers and connect with like-minded
women who LOVE to ski. Meet and ski
with Leslie Baker Brown, who championed
the most progressive women’s program
in the industry by launching the Women 2
Women Project. Bring a friend or two, your
shared passion for skiing and let’s have
some fun!
The event has grown steadily since its inception, gaining momentum every year. “We’re honored to bring back Leslie Baker Brown for her fourth consecutive year at this event. She’s an inspiration and an absolute icon in the industry with great stories to share.”
As a passionate skier and driven individual, Leslie has carved out her role as a female leader with Blizzard/Tecnica. She championed the most progressive women’s program in the industry and launched the Women 2 Women project. “W2W is a global initiative to design authentic women’s products that will take passionate skiers, regardless of ability, to new levels of confidence, excitement and freedom. Leslie is an inspiration and her energy is captivating,” says Kim.
Leslie has also developed nationwide scholarship programs through the Women to Women’s project, awarding scholarship funds to support women pursuing their passions. “This program is a wonderful support for women looking to further their education in any field that is of interest of them. Leslie broke through the glass ceiling for women in the ski equipment industry, and she’s looking to empower other women to do the same.”
The event kicks off Thursday, February 20, 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 ski’s waxed, mingle, and learn about the new Black Pearl Series Women’s Ski. Leslie will do a deep dive talk about this best-selling women’s ski, and talk about the recent improvements. “Black Pearl Skis have been our best-selling skis at MSG for several years. With the recent upgrades, they’re a game-changer. Come meet the better Black Pearl,” says Kim.
Friday, February 21, 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. “It’s an incredible opportunity to ski with Leslie and ask her questions about the products. We encourage women to trial as many skis and products as they’d like as they ski throughout the day. It’s a great opportunity to try the brand, find a good fit, and learn more about the equipment,” says Kim. 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 welcome to gather for après ski mingling at the lodge.
After a full day of skiing, attendees are invited to meet at The Banq for happy hour around 4:30. “We always have such a wonderful day, it’s hard to say goodbye! We invite all the women to continue the conversations and camaraderie. It’s sure to be a good evening after a great day on the slopes.”
Kim invites women of all ages and skill level to join in this inspirational event. “We aim to help educate about women’s products to gain confidence on the slopes, inspire their passion and create friendships on and off the slopes. It’s great to see familiar faces, and we welcome new friends. It’s a catalyst of likeminded women and the energy at this event is truly something special. Skiing is more than just a sport; for many it’s way of life, especially here in Ellicottville. This event is more than just skiing, it’s a bonding experience.”
For more information visit their Facebook Page, purchase tickets on Event Brite or call the store at (716) 699-8300. Event limited to 50 women.