Summer's Over, Time to Start Planning for OutBoard 2014!

OutBoard 2014 will be returning to Steamboat Springs, March 25-30, 2014, for five days of riding and skiing on the resorts six peaks of "Champagne Powder" and legendary trees.  

And the fun doesn't end once the lifts stop turning as organizers have a full slate of events lined up including old favorites and new adventures. Registration will open soon, so until then, get your crew together, check out this year's event details, and make plans to be at OutBoard 2014, March 25-30, 2014!

OutBoard 2013: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Much, Much More!

OutBoard was founded in 1995 as a learn-to-snowboard event. Over the years it has grown to be the largest gay and lesbian snowboarding event in the world and is inclusive of skiers.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations. “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

But it is more than just an event, the companion web site at www.outboard.org with over 3,000 members, is designed as an online community for the GLBT snowboarding community to find friends to ride with in their own area and post stories and pictures about their adventures.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2013 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org.

OutBoard 2013 Comin' Atcha in 4 Days!

OutBoard was founded in 1995 as a learn-to-snowboard event. Over the years it has grown to be the largest gay and lesbian snowboarding event in the world and is inclusive of skiers.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations. “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

But it is more than just an event, the companion web site at www.outboard.org with over 3,000 members, is designed as an online community for the GLBT snowboarding community to find friends to ride with in their own area and post stories and pictures about their adventures.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2013 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org.

OutBoard 2013 - The Most Laid Back Gay Snowboard and Ski Week

OutBoard was founded in 1995 as a learn-to-snowboard event. Over the years it has grown to be the largest gay and lesbian snowboarding event in the world and is inclusive of skiers.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations. “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

But it is more than just an event, the companion web site at www.outboard.org with over 3,000 members, is designed as an online community for the GLBT snowboarding community to find friends to ride with in their own area and post stories and pictures about their adventures.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2013 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org.

OutBoard 2013

OutBoard was founded in 1995 as a learn-to-snowboard event. Over the years it has grown to be the largest gay and lesbian snowboarding event in the world and is inclusive of skiers.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations. “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

But it is more than just an event, the companion web site at www.outboard.org with over 3,000 members, is designed as an online community for the GLBT snowboarding community to find friends to ride with in their own area and post stories and pictures about their adventures.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2013 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org.

OutBoard 2012: Worlds Largest Gay and Lesbian Snowboarding Event Returns to Steamboat Springs!

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2012, as the event returns to Steamboat Springs, CO, March 27-April 1, 2012. Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel. OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the hill as well as creating a great environment to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations. “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

OutBoard was founded in 1995 as a learn-to-snowboard event. Over the years it has grown to be the largest gay and lesbian snowboarding event in the world and is inclusive of skiers. But it is more than just an event, the companion web site at www.outboard.org with over 3,000 members, is designed as an online community for the GLBT snowboarding community to find friends to ride with in their own area and post stories and pictures about their adventures.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2012 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org.

OutBoard 2012: A conversation with Ryan Miller

Ryan Miller

By Drew Wilson

OutBoard 2012 is coming up March 27-April 1. I had a chance to speak with Director of Events and Operations and former professional snowboarder Ryan Miller about what to expect and why experienced snowboarders and noobies alike should check it out.

Drew: Hey Ryan, how would you describe OutBoard in a nutshell?
Ryan: OutBoard started in Denver 17 years ago as a way for our founder Tim, to meet other gay snowboarders. Over the years, OutBoard.org grew to be the largest gay and lesbian snowboard organization in the world, currently over 14,000 members world wide.

However, despite being a global organization, we're still based here in Denver and all of our events are hosted locally in Denver and at resorts in Colorado.

What sets OutBoard apart from all the other gay ski/snowboard events?
I think TripOutGayTravel got it right in 2010 when they named us the 'Most Laid Back' ski week. OutBoard's events are about the people and getting on the mountain first and foremost. That's not to say that we don't have a good time off the mountain with apres events, private dinners, and parties, but we always make sure that our events wrap early enough that our attendees are fresh and ready for first chair in the morning. That same year we were also named the 'Most Affordable' ski week which is something we also take pride in. We work hard to partner with venues that allow us to be able to produce a quality ski week with support events at an affordable price. This year we're offering our Rough Rider Package which includes five breakfasts, our Just Relax dinner on Wednesday night, The Strawberry Park Hot Springs Adventure, the Western Hoedown Dinner, and the Closing Party with open bar all for under $300.

Who goes to OutBoard?
OutBoard's events are attended by almost everyone. It doesn't matter if you've never been on snow or are a pro. We have attendees from Colorado as well as across the US, Canada, and the EU. The best part is, that after nine years of running the organization and events, there's always a large number of people I know who keep coming back year after year and it's like seeing family each time.


OutBoard Virgin Day 2012 from Ryan Miller on Vimeo.

What if I've never snowboarded before - am I still welcome?
Of course! OutBoard started as a learn-to-snowboard day so we love first timers. We host a 'Virgin Day' each year in January which caters to first timers, but we also work with the resorts, in this case Steamboat to offer first time lessons. This year Steamboat is offering three day learn-to-snowboard-or ski-package just for those who've never been on snow before. Where else would be better to learn than surrounded by friends!

Are you still a professional snowboarder?
I don't compete any more. I retired about five or six years ago due to some knee issues but I still get on snow every chance I can.

What were your best/worst experiences being one of the first elite athletes to be openly gay?
I think the best experience was really getting to represent and break through the barriers. When I was competing no one else was out so it was totally new ground which of course had a lot of baggage and stress associated with it in terms of dealing with competitors, coaches, and sponsors. Getting to travel the US and Canada to talk about gays in sports to youth organizations, communitiy organizations, and professional medical organizations was highly rewarding as I felt like I was giving back.

What equipment or gear do you recommend?
I ride Never Summer boards. Specifically the F1 Premier. Never Summer has been a long time sponsor of OutBoard and its events and make a great product so it's great to work with a company who's products I can personally speak for.

Where can we find out more about OutBoard?
The best place to find out about OutBoard is at our website, www.outboard.org.

Get ready for OutBoard 2012!

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2012, as the event returns to Steamboat Springs, CO, March 27-April 1, 2012.

Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel.  OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the hill as well as creating a great environment to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.

 “The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations.  “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

This year’s event schedule is still being finalized, however OutBoard 2012 attendees can look forward 5 days of incredible snowboarding the original “Champagne Powder” on one of North America’s largest resorts boasting nearly 3000 acres of terrain over 6 peaks. as well as daily “Kickstart” breakfasts, group lunches at the Thunderhead Lodge, Après events at the Steamboat Grand’s giant hot tubs, private dinners in town and on the mountain, and of course the OutBoard closing party with a guest DJ.  OutBoard 2012’s host lodging property will once again be the Steamboat Grand just steps from the gondola and featuring slope side equipment check, in house dining, and some of the largest hot tubs you’ll ever see.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2012 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org. 

OutBoard 2012 returns to Steamboat Springs

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2012, as the event returns to Steamboat Springs, CO, March 27-April 1, 2012.

 

Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel.  OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the hill as well as creating a great environment to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.  “The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations.  “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

 

This year’s event schedule is still being finalized, however OutBoard 2012 attendees can look forward 5 days of incredible snowboarding the original “Champagne Powder” on one of North America’s largest resorts boasting nearly 3000 acres of terrain over 6 peaks. as well as daily “Kickstart” breakfasts, group lunches at the Thunderhead Lodge, Après events at the Steamboat Grand’s giant hot tubs, private dinners in town and on the mountain, and of course the OutBoard closing party with a guest DJ.  OutBoard 2012’s host lodging property will once again be the Steamboat Grand just steps from the gondola and featuring slope side equipment check, in house dining, and some of the largest hot tubs you’ll ever see.

 

OutBoard returns to Crested Butte for 2011

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2011, as the event returns to Crested Butte, CO, March 29-April 3, 2011.

Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel, attendees can get all five breakfasts, two dinners including the private Last Tracks Dinner with a nighttime descent of Mt Crested Butte, and three parties including the Outboard Closing Party all for $325.00.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations.  “We have a blast socializing and hanging out,  but save something for the freshies the next morning to show our Outboard buddies our stuff!”

OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the ski hill and creating a great place to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.  Crested Butte is a beautiful mountain and great town to fall in love with.  It has awesome restaurants, clubs and bars to meet other OutBoard attendees or be welcomed by the locals. 

OutBoard is also very happy to announce that they have partnered with the Adaptive Sports Center in Crested Butte as the non-profit beneficiary for this year's event. The proceeds from bar sales at the Adventure Park event, will be benefiting the Adaptive Sports Center. The Adaptive Sports Center improves the quality of life of people with disabilities through outdoor adventure activities.

OutBoard 2011

OutBoard recently announced that they will be returning to Crested Butte, CO as the host resort of its 2011 Gay and Lesbian Snowboard and Ski week. Events will be held March 29 - April 3, 2011 with an annual attendance of over 200 snowboarders and skiers.

"We are thrilled to return to the extreme terrain and friendly town of Crested Butte for our 2011 event. The entire town has really come together to bring us back" said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations for OutBoard.

Held each year, OutBoard is the largest gathering of gay and lesbian snowboarders in the world, and of course skiers are also welcome. OutBoard’s 2010 event was named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel. The 2011 event will be the 16th consecutive year OutBoard has been held at a variety of Colorado's premier ski resorts.

Are you ready for OutBoard 2010?

Are you ready for OutBoard 2010? The oldest and largest gay snowboarding event in the world, OutBoard 2010 takes place March 30 through April 4 in Breckenridge.

TripOut says that OutBoard is the "most laid-back" of the gay ski and snowboard events and that "Outboard’s events are unquestionably the most affordable of the lot, with cover prices for its fun-filled parties hovering in the $30 range."