Paul Parker: Remembering the Telemark and Backcountry Skiing Pioneer
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Paul Parker, a name synonymous with telemark and backcountry skiing, passed away on October 28, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 71. Parker’s legacy in the skiing community is nothing short of monumental, as he dedicated his life to advancing the sport and its gear.
Starting his career in 1975 as an instructor for Colorado Outward Bound, Parker quickly made his way to Copper Mountain Resort, where he honed his skills in Nordic and alpine skiing. His passion for the sport led him to ski gear development, working with renowned brands like Chouinard Equipment and later, Black Diamond Equipment. He played a pivotal role in creating the Scarpa Terminator, the first plastic telemark boot, which revolutionized backcountry skiing.
His influence extended beyond just gear; Parker authored the groundbreaking book Free-Heel Skiing: Telemark and Parallel Techniques for All Conditions, now in its third edition. This book has been a guiding light for aspiring telemark skiers for over three decades. Parker’s dedication to the community made him a respected figure, as echoed by Scarpa North America’s CEO, Kim Miller, who admired his ability to articulate the vision of a sport he loved deeply.
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Friends and fellow skiers remember Parker as a visionary who always made time to help others refine their technique. Jeffrey “Biff America” Bergeron recalls calling Parker for advice, and no question was too trivial for him. “He was a good guy,” Bergeron said, emphasizing Parker’s willingness to support others in their skiing journeys.
In his book, Parker shared a profound insight: “Being able to go anywhere you want, with an element of precision and control, has been the goal.” This philosophy continues to resonate with telemark and backcountry skiers today, ensuring that Paul Parker’s legacy lives on with every turn down the mountain.