3/25/04
Record jump ends early
By Chip Strait/Aspen Daily News Correspondent
Matchstick Productions freeskier Mike Wilson, originally from Stratton, Vt., attempted an unprecedented 180-foot gap jump in the Buttermilk Crazy T'Rain Park on Thursday. The 180-foot gap is reportedly the largest gap-jump ever attempted in the world.
Hours before the attempt, Wilson was on the hill studying each aspect of the jump, including the takeoff and landing. The only question left was the speed needed to launch the skier over 50 yards, or the distance from a football field end-zone all the way to midfield. To get things started, a snowmobile was brought into the equation to pull Wilson into the massive jump to give him added speed. After numerous speed checks with the snowmobile towing at full throttle, certain spots leading up to the jump were salted to freeze up the slushy snow.
In the end, Wilson came up a few feet short, falling into the side of the landing hill. Buttermilk ski partollers rushed to Wilson's immediate aid and secured him to various backboards and braces. Wilson remained conscious after the impact and was heard relating shin and ankle problems to ski patrol.
He was transported to Aspen Valley Hospital via ambulance. An update on his condition was unavailable, as federal law prevents hospitals from publicly releasing patient information. Aspen Skiing Co. spokespersons could not be reached for comment late Thursday afternoon.
Matchstick Productions, based in Crested Butte, was filming for its next movie. It is unclear whether Wilson's footage will make the highlight reel. Matchstick premiered its last ski movie, 'Focused,' at the Wheeler Opera House last year. Matchstick Productions is talking with SkiCo about premiering its next film in Aspen.