Lone Tree Pow Turn

Broken Arrow, Squaw Valley Ski Resort, California

Athlete: Jason Mack

Camera: Nikon F5

The story:  "Squaw is very much defined by the presence of its trees. As graceful, towering souls they tell the story of weather and time. Just add snow and a playful skier, and the world becomes alive. Oh great tree, how does it feel to see us play at your feet?

I looked out of the window of the cable car and saw it standing there alone. J Mack turned and smiled at me - he didn't have to say a word. Twenty minutes later I traversed in from the side to not upset the virgin slope, and set up, a few hundred yards from a beautiful tree. The slope was gentle and smooth near the base of the tree. J Mack came in fast, straight lining from the start, saving it all for one turn. He laid in gracefully, powder burying him only to release his smiling face on the other side. He skied up to me with his white powdery face and toothy grin. His smile said it all."