Kiwissa remembers

by Karina Hunter

Led by Kiwissa Ski Club President, Ed Hedderson, the procession came "Rippen down the Main, tight to the T-line".

Sunday marked the first official memorial run in honour of Andre Robichaud at Kiwissa Ski Center in Manitouwadge.  Last weekend, Club Secretary and Rental Shop organizer Linda Hedderson, had decided to take a ski down the Main in honour of her deceased friend, having received a positive response from those involved, she decided to make a weekly practice of it.  Using the
Club’s Facebook Group to help get the word out, Hedderson encouraged others to join, sharing with those who did not know Robichaud, a little about him and why they were honouring his memory in this way. 

Sunday 22 skiers and snowboarders gathered at the top of the Main Run for the descent in honour of Robichaud, who was a long time Kiwissa skier and club member.  The group was told to Rip down the Main, tight to the T-line
which is how Robichaud had always skied his favourite run at the mountain.  Hedderson’s husband, Kiwissa Ski Club president, led the procession which included many of Robichaud’s friends but also younger skiers who would not have known of him otherwise, confirming the belief that this new tradition would help ensure he would not be forgotten at Kiwissa.

The Heddersons were pleased with the turnout of snow enthusiasts paying homage to their friend and looked forward to continuing this custom every Sunday at the same time. “It is a nice way to keep Andre’s spirit alive on the hill” said Linda enjoying the opportunity to share stories of those who helped makethe Club what it is today.

Submitted to The Echo and the Chronicle Journal 01.18.10