Lord of the jumps and boxes in the Snowpark Scuol
Curdin Erni
A sustained enthusiasm
Already as a small boy Curdin built small jumps, over which he jumped with the skis or the bob. When he started to make the slopes of the ski area unsafe with his snowboard, new "jump hills" were also diligently accumulated on the mountain. The boy grew up and with him grew the jumps that he built.
The snowfall sets the tone
During the day, he is deputy to the technical manager of the Motta Naluns mountain railroads. But at night, his undivided attention belongs to the park. The work at the "Snowpark" depends on the snow and the weather: the amount, consistency and timing of the snowfall determine Curdin's working day. Sometimes the job lasts until late at night or starts at 3 in the morning.
Diverse support
He receives support from his two "shapers," but also from the technical side. For example, today's snow groomers offer detailed data on slope inclination, shovel position and even GPS positions. The machine is able to do the bear part, but for certain jobs the chain saw or even the classic shovel are still used. These are strongly necessary for the visual appearance and thus for the image of the park.
Something for everyone
During construction, great importance is attached to including obstacles that appeal to every level. On the one hand, Curdin still likes to jump over the big kickers, but on the other hand he also takes his three-year-old son to the park for his first turns. Curdin appreciates the south-facing slope of "his" park. The shade keeps the jumps hard, while the landing areas are softened by the sun. The panoramic view also sets Scuol apart from other parks.
Safety increasingly important
In the past, the parks were negligent and criminal, he said. Although today the adrenaline kick is still very much sought after, the parks have become steadily safer. This is influenced by the jump and landing angle, the distance in between and many other factors. Safety aspects form the most important experience value, which is difficult to learn. For example, the trajectory of a kicker is analyzed with the help of thrown snowballs in addition to precise calculations.
