Tahoe resorts with programs for handicapped skiers

Tahoe resorts with programs for handicapped skiers Teams of instructors at four resorts in the Lake Tahoe area are making ski slopes accessible to just about anybody bold enough to give the sport a try.

Winter Park Ski Resort in Colorado pioneered professional ski instruction for physically handicapped skiers, but Tahoe resorts are fast becoming leaders in innovative programs. Kirkwood Instruction of Blind Skiers Foundation accepted its first student in 1979; today that student holds the world's speed record for a totally blind racer. First-time skiers and those who need to relearn ski techniques on different equipment can get plenty of help and, at two resorts, also have fun racing on skis.

We list Sierra resorts with programs for disabled skiers; reserve at least a week in advance for lessons. At the first two, competition is also available.

Alpine Meadows: Tahoe Handicapped Ski School, Box 2633, Olympic Valley, Calif. 95730; (916) 581-4161. For 20 years, Doug Pringle and a score of other instructors have been providing instruction and guidance for all types of disabled skiers. Cost is $10 per hour, including use of adaptive equipment and lift tickets. Races are scheduled for March 23 through 25. Newcomers can learn how to teach disabled skiers at clinics on March 3 through 6.

Kirkwood: Kirkwood Instruction of Blind Skiers, Box 138, Kirkwood, Calif. 95646; (209) 258-8600. Ron Saviola and 40 volunteer instructors offer lessons and guidance for all levels. Cost is $30 per day, including instruction, guidance, lift tickets, and rentals.

Ski Incline/Diamond Peak: Northern Nevada Ski School for the Disabled, Box 6244, Incline Village, Nev. 89450; (702) 832-0480. Instruction and guidance for amputees, blind skiers, and those with muscle disorders. Cost is $10 per hour, including use of adaptive equipment; enrollees get $10 off $24 lift tickets.

Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort, Box 178, Soda Springs, Calif. 95728; (916) 426-3871. As part of Royal Gorge's regular ski program, private instruction for blind skiers is now offered. A 1-hour private lesson, including rental equipment and trail pass, costs $43.