Skiers, boarders pumped on Hoodoo’s opening day

For the past few weeks, Hoodoo Ski Area and its fans have been patiently waiting for the snow to fall and the resort to open. And Friday was the long-awaited day.

Leif Williams, marketing director for the ski area, said Friday they had originally hoped to open at the end of November.

“We were geared up and ready to go several weeks ago, and we haven’t been twiddling our thumbs, but we certainly have been waiting for the day,” Williams said.

On opening day, skiers and snowboarders wasted no time hitting the slopes, including Portland resident Blake Sumner.

“It’s perfect — no wind, the snow’s great, everything is groomed — everything’s perfect,” Sumner said.

With a 27-inch base and 27 degrees outside, people were thrilled to be on the snow.

Brent Renison of Sisters said he’s happy to support the resort on opening day.

“It’s excellent — the snow looks great, and I thought it was going to be freezing cold, but it’s really quite nice,” Renison said.

Three of the chairlifts on the slope are open, but people, including snowboarder Andrew Ritchie, are excited.

“I have been long anticipating this day,” Ritchie said. “We got brand new equipment, and it’s long overdue. We’re very excited for this day, and it’s beautiful out here.”

Hoodoo officials said they’ll do what they do every year: Expect the best, and prepare for the worst.

“This is pretty nice,” Williams said. “There’s a little sun, little overcast, you kind of have to watch where your tips are going to see what’s underneath, but as far as terrain goes, it’s pretty good.”

To check out Hoodoo’s season schedule, you can head to their website: http://www.skihoodoo.com/