BRASS Launches in Norway
BRASS ambassador Atle Lie McGrath has successfully launched BRASS in Norway
Last summer, BRASS took an exciting step internationally. Thanks to BRASS ambassador Atle Lie McGrath, we were able to launch BRASS in Norway. He and his team, including Rune Verpe Engeset, a prominent Norwegian expert in snow, ice, and avalanche hazards, translated and adapted the BRASS 101 class for Norway. A new sequence and Norwegian subtitles were also added to the film “Off Piste”.
One year after the launch, 850 active alpine skiers, coaches and parents in Norway have completed BRASS’ avalanche education program. Classes were held for the Norwegian Alpine Ski Team, Ski Clubs, Ski Academies, at a coaching seminar and at the U14 and U16 National Championships. Atle attended – and took part in – several of these classes himself.
“Prior to the launch of BRASS, alpine skiers in Norway did not receive any avalanche training. I am very proud to have changed that with BRASS. Together we save lives.” Says Atle Lie McGrath.
The launch of BRASS in Norway was made possible with the support from NVE/Varsom.no, Telenor, Helly Hansen, HEAD and the Norwegian Alpine Ski Team.
Remembering Bryce & Ronnie - 10 Years of BRASS
It has been 10 years since we lost our sons, friends, brothers, and teammates. Join us to reflect on the positive changes that have been inspired by the tragic accident, learn about the vision and message that BRASS is spreading across the globe, and look forward to a future of keeping athletes safe with an introduction from our new Executive Director, Sam Damon.
The webinar will include discussions with from BRASS ambassador and World Champs medalist Atle McGrath, US Downhill legends Steven Nyman and Travis Ganong, Arc City podcaster and World Cup racer Jimmy Krupka, and a US Ski and Snowboard’s CEO Sophie Goldschmidt. You won’t want to miss it!
McGrath Lands on World Champs Podium with BRASS
The BRASS foundation is thrilled, but not surprised by the success of
our partner, Atle Lie McGrath. At the World Championship giant slalom on Sunday, February 16, his silver medal was the result of
two expertly executed runs. The field consisted of the best racers in the world, all vying for this highly respected medal.
Atle has shown steady growth as a ski racer all season. As our partner, he has brought his composed persona and a clear passion for
saving lives through BRASS. We are so proud of his performance both on and off the slopes! We continue to wish him success!
Off Piste: Tragedy in Alps
Ski racers Bryce Astle and Ronnie Berlack had no idea of the danger they faced when they ventured off trail with U.S. Ski Team teammates. The January, 2015 avalanche that took their lives is the heart of an emotional new educational film Off Piste: Tragedy in the Alps.
BRASS 101
BRASS 101 is designed to educate ski and snowboard athletes about dangers outside the gates! It’s a 90-minute introductory presentation available free online.
About
BRASS Avalanche
BRASS Avalanche, the Bryce and Ronnie Athlete Snow Safety Foundation (BRASS), was born out of the tragic avalanche deaths of U.S. Ski Team athletes Ronnie Berlack and Bryce Astle to create a legacy of change in the culture of avalanche education and safety in the competitive and recreational ski and snowboard community. Its mission is to advocate for greater penetration of avalanche education and to advocate for the evolution of snow safety systems.
2023-24 U.S. Avalanche Deaths
2024-25 US Avalanche Deaths
Avalanche data compiled by Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Click for more detail.