Powder Magazine dubbed him “the most influential skier ever” shortly after his untimely death in 2009. Shane McConkey was that and so much more: pro skier, ski-base jumper, friend, husband and father would only scratch the surface of this remarkable human being. “McConkey”, a newly released documentary, cannot simply be branded as a cautionary tale; it is a celebration of the man that so many looked up to as he boldly went where none had gone before.
The nearly two hour film documents his trademark humour, wins, losses, pranks, shenanigans and very personal moments. Being in the habit of recording every moment, Shane left behind over a thousand hours of footage which the director called “the building blocks of this film”. The result is a very real glimpse into life lessons that anyone, skier or otherwise, will appreciate.
The movie was said to have prophetic moments, but nothing could prepare me for the very haunting reality of it all. My heart was in my throat watching Shane’s final, fateful jump. Thankfully, this is not what I was left with as the credits rolled. Instead of tears, I had a big, fat grin on my face.
You may be wondering what WaL readers will get out of this story. Let’s start with the stunning alpine locations: Yosemite National Park and Vail (CA), Squaw Valley (CO), Haines (AK), the Dolomites (Italy) and Norway. Mostly though, they would be sucker punched by an absurd amount of joy and love for life. That, more than anything else, is the Shane McConkey legacy.
“McConkey” is available for digital purchase or rent via iTunes. To be a part of the action, consult the tour dates to find a showing near you. The proceeds will go to his family, in particular Ayla, the beautiful little girl he left behind.
Winter is coming,
K