While Stoneham might not be as big a ski area as say Whistler Blackcomb, the Quebecois ski hill was the training ground for one of skiing’s biggest heroes– JP Auclair. So in order to memorialize the larger than life skier, resort officials are naming an expert run in his honor.
Related: Remembering JP Auclair 1977-2014
Titled, La JP Auclair, the newly marked run will run through the gladed area known as La Kamikaze. It’s likely the most expert terrain on the mountain and was one of JP’s favorite areas growing up with the highlight feature being a ten foot rock that is covered with graffiti memorializing the late skier. Originally, the yellow bird on the rock was done by JP for his girlfriend but since his death, Sébastien Larose has continued to memorialize his friend on the rock with the help of muralist, Sautozieux.
“Grateful for his incredible career and his legacy to future generations of skiers and snowboarders, Stoneham wanted to dedicate a track to JP and his family.” – Ski Stoneham
A founding member of the “New Canadian Air Force,” JP was a one of a kind individual who not only excelled in skiing but was a central figure amongst his friends, family, and hometown community. JP and ski partner Andreas Fransson were consumed in an avalanche on September, 29 2014 in Chile.
Find the Stoneham announcement here: STONEHAM PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE ATHLETE JP AUCLAIR