Why Ripping Over 50 is Changing the Way We Age

Aging doesn’t mean slowing down—it’s a chance to move forward with comfort and confidence. Suzanne Nottingham, the visionary behind Ripping Over 50, is on a mission to prove that getting older doesn’t have to mean getting weaker. In fact, with the right mindset and the right support, we can continue to push ourselves to be stronger, more graceful, and more confident in every aspect of life.

One thing becomes immediately clear when you step into the room with Suzanne and her team: Ripping Over 50 isn’t just about skiing. It’s about building a community, a family, where people of all ages and backgrounds come together for a shared experience. As soon as you walk into the camp, you feel the camaraderie that Suzanne and her team have cultivated. It’s no longer just about the sport—it’s about the people. So much so that one guest even admitted to finessing her age just to be a part of the experience.

Laurey Carlson—a longtime local, instructor, and friend of Suzanne—eloquently spoke on behalf of this year’s group, highlighting the powerful atmosphere that permeates the camp. “Kindness above all else is really what is standing out to me,” she said, reflecting the spirit of Ripping Over 50—a space where support and positivity fuel personal growth.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting out, Ripping Over 50 is built on the idea that skiing can be for everyone. The camp focuses on body awareness, strength through micromovements, and individualized feedback. Participants can choose between three- or five-day sessions tailored to their pace and goals. Suzanne continually emphasizes that “ripping is a state of mind,” and the camp is about empowering people to tap into that mindset, no matter their past experiences or level.

But skiing is just one part of the equation. The camp also includes off-snow fitness and wellness training, ensuring that participants develop strength and mobility to support their time on the slopes. The program kicks off with an indoor session dedicated to setting the foundation for the days ahead. On the final day guests take part in a memorable celebration, which many in the group considered a key highlight to the camp experience.

Each participant comes to Ripping Over 50 with their own set of goals, whether it’s refining their skiing technique or gaining more confidence on the slopes. But what makes the camp so special is the way people with different skill levels and aspirations support each other, learning side by side in an uplifting and encouraging environment.

Sharon, a repeat guest, once thought she might need to slow down with age, but after attending the camp, realized this year’s ski season has been the best of her life. “Skiing just for me has been a huge confidence builder in both skiing and in life,” she said, reflecting on the transformation that she and other attendees experience.

With Suzanne’s background in sports movement and her deep love for both skiing and Mammoth, it’s no wonder that Ripping Over 50 has become a life-changing experience for so many. It’s not just about the sport—it’s about the journey of growth, both on and off the slopes.