Hey There Stranger

This summer has been amazing, concentrating on the things in life that are truly important to me.

The opening scenes of this video are also special to me, 2 days before I filmed them I was in an accident. On my way to the gym a car didn’t see me and turned in to my path, the result of which was torn ligaments in my ankle, a fractured wrist, torn ligaments in my thumb and some hella nice road rash. This happened 1 week before heading on my first pre season ski camp. Devastating.

There were 2 ways I could look at it, spiral into depression over yet another injury and set back… or get back up, suck it up and count myself lucky it wasn’t worse. I chose the second. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had my down days, especially finding out I have various complications with my healing and medical health support networks. On the other hand, I now have time to concentrate on my weaknesses in the gym, the things I somewhat neglect, the little things which will make me a stronger, more all round athlete.

For that I have Crossfit. I have to say a massive thanks to Crossfit Nultien (http://crossfitnultien.nl/). Igor, Daniel and my incredible trainer Lizz have graciously opened their doors to me and taught me so much about true fitness, technique, nutrition, community and self belief. I have spent the summer training along side some incredible athletes, people who have opened my eyes to what is possible. Jasper, Sandra and Auke, thanks for inspiring me everyday.

You may think this song choice is a little predictable, but it seemed appropriate giving the circumstances. If you have a keen eye you can spot me sporting double casts in certain shots, or hiding them with good lighting and baggy clothes. Recovery is well under way and I’m stoked to get back on my skis very soon.

Pam x

Party like a Rockstar!

It’s that time of year again… who’s excited about the winter?? I am!! Ok so most people are hoping the summer stays a little longer but October means 1 thing- it’s Snowflake Fundraiser time! This is a huge year. Yeh I seem to say that every year but this one is extra big. This little thing called the Olympics is happening in less than 6 months time. I took the summer off skis to rest up, heal and recover and wow time has flown.

Now I don’t want to give you the whole sob story. I’m sure everyone is fed up hearing it by now- another athlete needs funding, standard! The fact of the matter is, I have no funding, no coach and limited access to resources. I’ve spent more than a couple of days in complete despair, rehabbing broken bones and unsure of my future, it’s easy to fall into that pit of doom. So what can I do? I can suck it up and deal with it! I consider myself a very lucky girl. Not only do I have my dream job, I have amazing sponsors and supporters who help me everyday. Even with this great help, I still have to find ways of raising some funds so I can get through my season.

On November the 2nd I am hosting a big party in Glasgow. It’s not going to be your average, stuffy sit down dinner, we are mixing it up a little… if you fancy a great time and want to support my Olympic journey, check it out. You will not only be supporting me, but also the amazing charities that are The Skiers Trust and Disability Snowsport.

Info on the night is below… I hope to see you there!

SNOWFLAKE FUNDRAISER

Saturday 2nd November 2013
Hampden Park- Letherby Dr, G42 9BA, Glasgow
Dress: Black Tie
7pm: Drinks reception- Complimentary Snowflake cocktail created especially for you.
Entertainment includes a variety of music, games, singing and dancing, as well as incredible special guests, 
DJ and party until 1am
Tickets: £55, tables up to 12 available.

Come and spend a night celebrating winter sports, supporting the great charities- The Skiers Trust and Disability Snowsport as well as Pam Thorburn’s journey to the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. Proceeds from this event will be donated to The Skiers Trust as gift aid donations.

Test your knowledge with our drinking games. Winners will receive a full case of our sponsored beer.

Try your hand in our Tombola with dozens of amazing prizes to be won, including luxury hampers, bottles of champagne, spirits, and boxes of Bawbags.

Auction prizes include:
1
 week stay for 2-4 persons in a gorgeous waterfront apartment in Port Grimaud, in the heart of the French Riviera (across the bay from St Tropez)- May/ June 2014.
One of a kind painting from renowned artist- Philip Raskin
Teeth Whitening course by L & H Dentalcare- Central Scotland’s leading dental practice
Trevor Paris Crystal necklace with matching bracelet and earrings
Special Golf Packages at some of Scotland’s most exclusive courses
Beautiful Jewellery from Rox The Jewellers and many more…

RSVP to linda.thorburn@hotmail.com for payment details or call 07887414849

Sun, Scars and Skateboarding

It’s been a while since my season finished and man it’s been busy. Getting back into training in a big way has been awesome. It’s fair to say my body was a bit of a wreck by the season end so I’m loving having the time to get back into shape again.

I had the pleasure of going down to Manchester with Northern Freestyle and coaching some Ski Cross. I had better watch out… these kids are legit, fast learners and all round rippers!

Photo- Millie Wilkinson

I’ve been working hard with the Scottish Institute of Sport to figure out a solution to my ever troublesome shins. So far I think we are back on track.

There’s been a lot going on these last few months, usually summer goes by in a blur of training and mediocre Scottish weather but since Britain has been blessed with a heat wave, I’ve been loving every minute of it! Since April, I went to Val Thorens snowboarding…

Then on to Norway for 1 last 2012/2013 Ski Cross race…

And came away with some silverwear…

I cruised around on my skateboard…

And fell off…

Dyed my hair green…

Tried out some new Haglofs kit…

And did my first box rail…

Got loads more acupuncture…

Dreamed of the beach…

Caught up with friends…

Even best friends who live on the other side of the world…

Found some inspiration…

And got my butt to the gym…

Pam x