BOEC’s Largest Mono-Ski Camp Yet: Building Skills, Friendships, and Confidence on the Slopes

BOEC’s Mono-Ski Camp is an immersive program designed for mono-skiers looking to refine their skills in a fast-paced and supportive environment. Unlike a typical lesson, this camp offers athletes the chance to push their limits, with optional racing techniques incorporated based on participant interest.

This year, we were thrilled to host our largest group yet, with 10 dedicated participants joining us for an unforgettable experience. The camp ran from January 26th to January 31st, spanning six days, including four full days of skiing from Monday through Thursday. Participants arrived Sunday afternoon, settled in, and hit the slopes first thing Monday morning.

After chatting with the participants, volunteers, and staff on this course, it’s apparent that Mono-Ski Camp means something a little different to everyone.

For many participants, this camp is about more than just skiing—it’s about personal breakthroughs. Jeff Ron shared,

“Mono-Ski Camp was incredible. I got to adventure over to Peaks 7 and 8 for the first time since my injury, so it was awesome getting to experience more of the mountain again. I was able to progress so much over the past four days getting to ride with nine other mono-skiers and amazing instructors from the BOEC.”

Christopher Briggs, now in his seventh year of mono-skiing, first learned to ski with the BOEC and has returned year after year.

“One of my favorite things about Mono-Ski Camp is the camaraderie. We are all learning from each other, giving each other tips, and having a great time,” he said. “I encourage others to come check out the camp for themselves.”

For others, the magic of Mono-Ski Camp is about the connections made. Alison Rehfus took to social media to share her experience,

“I had the most magical experience learning and making friends at BOEC Mono-Ski Camp! Thank you BOEC for making it happen! Words can’t begin to cover how grateful I am to have this opportunity.” She added, “For me, Mono-Ski Camp is a really awesome chance to build community and to build skills with friends.”

Beyond the slopes, the camp fostered a strong sense of camaraderie. Most days, BOEC staff prepared delicious meals for the group, except for Monday night, when participants dined out at Sauce on the Maggie, and Wednesday, when volunteers came together to cook a special homemade dinner. On Tuesday evening, the group took a trip into Breckenridge to admire the breathtaking snow sculptures—a highlight for intern Mitch, who called it his favorite memory of the week.

The group introduced daily clinics to promote unity and shared learning. Participants were placed into ski groups based on ability, ensuring a supportive and encouraging environment where everyone could challenge themselves while connecting with others.

For Jackson Merritt, who has been mono-skiing for two years, this sense of community was the most impactful part of the experience.

“Meeting everybody has been my favorite part, I’ve never been around this many wheelchairs in my life,” he said. “The connections and resources here are so valuable, I’m just happy to be here.”

Longtime BOEC volunteer Frank Martinez echoed this sentiment, saying, “Mono-Ski Camp is my favorite week of the year because of the camaraderie between the mono-skiers.” Fellow BOEC volunteer John Lucey also reflected on the rewarding experience of “watching participants improve every day, working as a group, having fun, and becoming independent on the slopes.”

Each participant had something unique they loved about the camp. The youngest of the group, Bao, who has been skiing independently for four years, appreciated “the unique terrain.” Benedict, who has been mono-skiing for about a year, found that “all the great interns, volunteers, and staff make mono-skiing so much easier and help me learn.”

Mono Camp has been running for about 23 years. What makes Mono Camp truly special is the community we provide both on and off the hill. From skiing at some of the highest elevations in Breckenridge to in-depth movement analysis sessions, to the beautiful lodging and meals at Griffith Lodge, every aspect of the camp is designed to create an unforgettable experience.

“We offer a unique opportunity where participants can experience high-caliber coaching, demo top-of-the-line gear, and access a wide array of terrain—all in one location. Additionally, we collaborate with scholarship programs like the Kelly Brush Foundation to help provide access to advanced expertise in mono skiing, ensuring that more athletes can benefit from the knowledge and support available at this camp and beyond as they continue their journey.” – Assistant Director of the Adaptive Ski and Snowboard Program, Yuri Czmola.

The impact of this camp is evident in the words of those who experienced it firsthand. Some of our participants took to social media to share their appreciation, and we were especially touched to receive a heartfelt thank-you card from participant Rochelle. “The BOEC went above and beyond with the lodging, food, instruction, and overall experience,” she states. “I’m looking forward to seeing you all again soon!” These gestures are a reminder to all of our staff of the meaningful connections and personal growth that happen during this week.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue growing this camp and strengthening the bonds that make BOEC’s Mono-Ski Camp such a special experience. To all our participants, volunteers, instructors, and supporters—thank you for making this our best year yet!