Queenstown, New Zealand (Monday, July 17, 2006) - The Remarkables ski area in Queenstown on the South Island of New Zealand has introduced a new women’s only snowboarding program designed to encourage female snowboarders to improve their skills.

Laura Woerlee, freestyle snowboard coach and co-ordinator at The Remarkables said she wanted to encourage women by creating a non-intimidating environment to improve skills and have fun in the terrain park.

"It's not about being the best but getting out there and experiencing what the mountain has to offer. We wanted to develop a session for women, coached by women. It’s all about having fun with your friends while introducing riders to freeriding, parkriding and a variety of different terrain.

“This is an open program for all women, of all ages, to get on board and enjoy themselves,” said Woerlee.

The Remarkables Snowsports School will run five-hour sessions every second Wednesday, beginning on July 19.

The program targets 18-35 year old intermediate level snowboarders and above. Coaches will provide insight and personal feedback on riding technique and offer skill development through use of video for analysis and self improvement.

A snowboarder since age 14, Laura, now 21, has represented New Zealand as a snowboarder for six years, achieving the 14th position overall in the World Junior Snowboard championship in Italy in 2001. More recently Laura netted second place in the 2005 Forum Youngblood Competition at The Remarkables.