Ski touring: ticket against conflicts – tirol.ORF.at
Especially since the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of ski tourers in Tyrol has skyrocketed, she explains at the European Sports Management Conference – EASM – 2022 in Innsbruck. In her opinion, a separate ticket for slope-goers could partially defuse the conflict.
90 Euro ticket as conflict solution
Her research shows that ski tourers would be willing to pay around 90 euros in total per season for parking and also the ascent. “On the one hand, skiers would have a reason to justify why they are entitled to the slopes, and on the other hand, the ski areas could invest the money in their own opportunities to climb the slopes. It would also be a win-win situation,” says Ambach.
Slopes are a public good that is currently only paid for indirectly – through parking fees, for example. The potential for conflict arises from this supposed economic distinction between skiers and piste goers. Then the piste tourers would also benefit from the groomed piste. This reduces the safety risk for them – such as from avalanches.
Piste tours are not used economically
At the moment, ski touring is used relatively little economically. “Tourists pay parking fees and are usually relatively good eaters. Especially when you are on slopes where two athletes can sit next to each other, because the social aspect also comes along and outshines the pure sporting purpose,” explains the researcher.
Implementation uncertain
The researcher has already presented her concept to a number of offers, such as the leisure ticket. “But they still had other problems to contend with during Corona.” The implementation is still uncertain. “In the beginning I was afraid that I was going to be late because it was so much of a discourse during the pandemic. But now I’m not so sure anymore”.
subject through personal experience
The University of Innsbruck employee came up with the topic based on her own experience: “I’m an enthusiastic ski tourer myself, especially since the pandemic. At that time, the topic was hotly debated in the media and there was even talk of a ban on ski tourers. I didn’t want that at all.”
The touring sport inspires above all because of the mindfulness and closeness to nature that it requires. “Here in Tyrol it is difficult, especially in winter, to go running after or before work, for example. That’s where ski touring comes in handy, because it also invites you to get to know yourself and your limits better,” says Ambach.