NEWBURY, New Hampshire ??” Mount Sunapee won an award for its innovative Families First beginner program at the National Ski Areas Association’s National Convention held May 19-21, 2005 in Scottsdale, AZ. The award was in the category for the best national program to increase trial by new participants. The annual Sales and Marketing Awards showcase the best and the brightest resort marketing campaigns throughout the country.

Traditionally, beginner skiers and snowboarders are separated by age when they enroll in a learn-to-ski or ride program. Families First allows families (ages eight and up) to learn together in the same class with one instructor.

“Skiing and snowboarding is one of the few activities that families can enjoy together for a lifetime,” said Maura Gorman, director of the Learning Center at Mount Sunapee. “It seemed to make sense that families should be introduced to the sport the same way that they can enjoy it in the future: together.”

The Families First program is available weekends and holidays. The per person cost for the first lesson is $69 which includes a two-hour beginner lesson, rental equipment and a lift ticket to the South Peak beginner area. A second and third day package is available for $60 per person, creating an outstanding three-day lift, lesson and rental package for only $129.

Mount Sunapee’s South Peak beginner area provides the ideal environment for learning how to ski or snowboard. South Peak is separated from the rest of the resort and features 13 user-friendly novice or beginner trails along with a quad chair lift and four other lifts including New England’s longest moving carpet lift.

The Families First beginner program complements Mount Sunapee’s reputation as the resort where families get closer. Half of Mount Sunapee’s customer base are families with children in the household. Mount Sunapee offers instructional, recreational and competitive programs for children and young adults of all ages. For more information on Mount Sunapee, Families First and other family programs call 603-763-2356 or go to mountsunapee.com.