US SKI AND SNOWBOARD TEAM PHYSICIAN
TO HOST FREE SKI AND SNOWBOARD SAFETY CLASS

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – January 8, 2019 – West Michigan Orthopaedics and Cannonsburg today announced a free ski and snowboard safety class for the community. U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team physician and partner at West Michigan Orthopaedics Dr. Carl Wierks will lead the session. Cannonsburg ski patroller and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital physical therapist Chris Wise will also present. The class will be held at Cannonsburg’s Cedar Lounge on Saturday, January 19, from 9 to 10 a.m.

“For many, winter in West Michigan is synonymous with hitting the slopes with friends and family,” said Dr. Carl Wierks, U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team physician and partner at West Michigan Orthopaedics. “Whether you’re a youth beginner or an adult who is new to the sport, this session will provide essential tips to enjoy your time skiing and snowboarding safely.” The hour-long class will cover essential exercises for getting into skiing and snowboarding shape, basics for checking bindings, optimal skiwear and equipment, tips for sizing your skis and snowboards, the importance of helmet safety, advice on situational awareness, and thekeys to knowing your limits.

“While downhill skiing and snowboarding are exhilarating, as with any sport, safety is essential,” said Chris Wise, Cannonsburg ski patroller and physical therapist. “This class will provide practical advice for enjoying an injury-free season.” The event is free, but registration is required via Eventbrite.

About West Michigan Orthopaedics
Founded in 1979, by Walter Braunohler, M.D, West Michigan Orthopaedics has been serving the West Michigan community for nearly 40 years. Overseen by Dr. Karl Roberts, Dr. Patrick Zietz, and Dr. Carl Wierks, West Michigan Orthopaedics provides personalized, patient-centered orthopedic care, specializing in sports medicine, hip arthroscopy, and joint replacement surgery, while also treating many other orthopedic conditions.

About Cannonsburg
Cannonsburg Ski Area was established in 1965 and is a staple for the ski and snowboarding community in West Michigan. The area offers a variety of runs and lifts for beginner to advanced skiers and snowboarders, including one of the largest terrain park offerings in the Midwest. Over the last couple of years, Cannonsburg has continued to expand into a four-season area, offering zip lining, weddings, fall attractions, mountain biking, trail running, and corporate events.