Kent Cooper, 50, is an avid skier. He enjoys the thrill, the speed and even the solitude that only snow-covered mountain tops can bring.
It's a love he's passed down to his children, and a sport they enjoy as a family.
However, he would never have known his passion if not for the Carson City Junior Ski Program he attended with his two siblings in the '60s and '70s.
"All of us learned to ski in that program," he said.
When his children were old enough, he enrolled them. He has fond memories of packing a lunch to eat on the tailgate of his truck when lessons were over then spending the afternoon skiing as a family.
"This program has been outstanding over the years," he said. "There really are a lot of people who wouldn't have had the opportunity to learn if it wasn't for the program."
Now in its 54th year with a name change to reflect changing styles, the Carson City Junior Ski and Snowboard Program will begin again this year Jan. 9. Although registration officially closed, Director Kurt Meyer said applications are still being accepted.
The program, hosted through the Carson City Recreation Department, includes six lessons taught on Sundays through March at Diamond Peak Ski Resort in Incline Village. Participants also receive an unlimited season pass there.
"They can ski or snowboard whenever they want," Meyer explained. "It's a great deal."
The program is open to children ages 9-15. For $190, students receive lessons and a ski pass. For $305, they will receive transportation to and from the lessons.
Meyer said beginners leave the program as competent skiers or snowboarders. Others show significant progress as well.
"It's awesome to see," he said.
Meyer recommends parents enroll their children in formal instructions rather than trying to teach them alone. He said it cuts down on frustrations and gives students a good foundation.
"It's much safer," he said. "They really are learning the mountain and learning etiquette. It's important that they're instructed on all that."
Cooper said skiing appeals to him as a native Nevadan who loves the outdoors and as someone who enjoys an active lifestyle.
"I don't think there's a much better activity," he said.
Meyer, whose own sons have participated in the program, said a membership would make the perfect Christmas present.
"It's a great gift," he said. "It will keep giving, even onto the next generation."
Carson City Junior Ski and Snowboard Program
Begins Jan. 9 and runs Sundays through March for children ages 9 to 15. Cost is $190 without transportation and $305 with it. Price includes unrestricted season pass.
For more information, contact Kurt Meyer at kmeyer@carson.org or pick up an application at the Carson Aquatic Facility, 841 N. Roop St.