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| · June 12, 2003 · |
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· Telluride Reports Growth In Skier Days For The 2002-2003 Season TELLURIDE, Colo. - The Telluride Ski & Golf Company (Telski) posted a total of 367,252 skier visits for the 2002-2003 season, a seven percent increase over the 2001-2002 season. A skier visit represents one person skiing or snowboarding at the ski area for all or part of one day. Telski officials attribute the rise in skier days to better snow than the previous year, continued interest in Prospect Bowl (733 acres of terrain that nearly doubles the size of the mountain), a more targeted air program and a strong showing from the regional market.
"Although we fell a bit shy of our goal, at least we surpassed last season's numbers. Considering the soft economy and the war, it was a difficult year for the tour and travel industry across the board," said Johnnie Stevens, chief operating officer for Telski. The abundance of early snowfall and consistent snow throughout the season contributed to an increase in Telluride's skier visits. After reporting its first significant snow of the year on Aug. 29, Telluride continued to get hit by early season storms. The early start of winter prompted pre-season bookings which led to strong holiday visits. On Dec. 30, Telluride set a single day skier visit record of 6,956. Prospect Bowl, which made its grand debut in Dec. 2001, continued to be a draw for guests. The additional 733 acres of terrain nearly doubled the size of the mountain and added a diversity of terrain ideal for all ability levels. The addition of Prospect Bowl transforms Telluride into a weeklong destination. Telluride's air access provided convenient travel options for destination guests. With United Airlines new weekend jet service from Denver, Telluride was more accessible for west coast connections. In addition, Telluride increased the number of seats available on Saturday enabling more guests to travel during peak days. Telluride offers air access from a total of six cities on four major carriers, including American from Chicago and Dallas; Continental from Newark and Houston; United from Denver; and America West from Phoenix. Telluride experienced a strong showing from its regional markets (Denver, Phoenix, Durango, Grand Junction, Montrose, Cortez) due to excellent skiing conditions and the availability of affordable regional products such as T-cards, 5 and 10-day passes, college passes and children's season passes. Media Contact: Communications Department 970-728-7409 |
| Produced by Judi Janofsky, Rich Steck and the Golf Press Association |