A group of veterans hit the slopes on Wednesday. For some, it was their very first time. It’s all a part of a program that teaches children and adults with disabilities, as well as veterans, how to ski.
"I wasn't used to it. It was a challenge. Plus, where I'm from, that's all they did," Navy Vet Erwin Williams said.
Though originally from Vermont, Williams had never skied before. But on Wednesday, he and a group of veterans from Rocky Hill geared up and gave it a try.
With the help of instructors and a program called Leap of Faith Adaptive Skiers, Williams did just that - took a leap of faith at Mount Southington Ski Area in the Plantsville section of Southington.
"It's a confidence builder, it's fun. It's physical activity, which they wouldn't do otherwise," Program Director Joel Zeisler said.
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Zeisler said it all began in 1992 when a blind Vietnam veteran asked him for water skiing lessons. Zeisler, a former waterski champion, agreed.
Not only did the vet learn to water ski independently, but he also went on to become a world champion.
After a couple years, the LOF program expanded to include adaptive snow skiing for children and adults with disabilities, as well as veterans.
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On Wednesday, participants had the option of sit skiing or standing. Williams went sit skiing and said he had a blast.
"He was scared at first," longtime ski instructor and LOF volunteer David Bonney said.
But Bonney helped Willams overcome his fears - one of which was getting on the chair lift.
"There is nothing more satisfying than helping others have a great time. We take them out, and they can't believe how much fun they have," Bonney said.
Williams did say he'd love to hit the slopes again.
"I enjoyed it. I wouldn't mind doing it again. a lot of nice people here," Williams said.
