We all wished that we were introduced to the sport of ice climbing at a younger age……right? Are there any young women in your life you’d like to give that gift to?  The Michigan Ice Fest is proud to offer an amazing opportunity for young women between the ages of 9-17 to be introduced to the sport of ice climbing at the Fest.

Sue Nott was a native of Vail, Colorado, and began climbing rock and ice at the age of 20. In the winter of 1998, Sue was involved in an ice climbing accident where she was speared by a large piece of ice, when it crumbled from underneath her. Suffering from serious abdominal injuries, Sue took only two months to recover and was out climbing as soon as she could.

Over the next couple of years Sue focused on alpine climbing. She would winter in Chamonix, giving her access to many of Europe’s alpine classics including the famed Eiger. Then spend the spring season in Alaska, climbing on Hunter, Foraker and Denali. All of this was preparation for her major expeditions which took her all over the world, climbing in such locations as India’s Garwhal Himalaya, the Peruvian Andes, and the mountains of Patagonia to name a few.

It was her drive, focused direction and experience that lead her to become one of the world’s top women alpine climbers. But it was her lust for life and infectious energy that left a permanent impression on everyone she met. Whether it was teaching a clinic, traveling abroad, in a restaurant or even competing against others, her warmth, energy and good natured spirit affected everyone.

Sue dreamed big, lived a large life, and wanted you to be a part of it. She was always there to encourage and cheer you on with whatever you were doing, no matter who you were. For those of us lucky enough to share some time with her, we will be forever changed and will forever miss her.

For two years Sue was also an instructor for the Michigan Ice Fest teaching our women’s courses. Unfortunately, Sue was killed while attempting the Infinite Spur on Mt. Foraker in Alaska in the spring of 2006.  In honor of Sue,Down Wind Sports has created the Sue Nott Scholarship Fund.  The purpose of the scholarship is to promote, inspire, and introduce young females to the sport of ice climbing. One scholarship will be awarded every year for female’s age 9-17 years old. The scholarship will include admission to the ice fest, instruction in the women’s course, as well as some other surprises!

Do you know a young girl who might be interested in learning how to ice climb?  Our Sue Nott Scholarship is still available!

Applicants need to submit:

 

1. A one page written letter explaining why they are interested in ice climbing and the Michigan Ice Fest.

 

2. A copy of their most recent report card.  Applications will not be based on the best grades but that students are trying hard and making an effort at school.

 

3. A letter of support from someone other then the applicant’s parents.

 

4. Deadline for application is January 5th 2012

PLEASE SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:

DOWN WIND SPORTS

514 N. Third

Marquette, MI. 49855

ATTENTION SUE NOTT SCHOLARSHIP

Applications will be presented to a panel and will be responded to in writing by Jan. 15th