The Central Coast’s Sharlene Moras had never skied with a guide before. That changed when she met Chess from Rhythm Japan, who introduced her to the backcountry around Niseko and completely reshaped her expectations.
The backcountry was amazing,” Sharlene says. “Chess was absolutely phenomenal. We met at 8:30am and spent a solid amount of time on safety – avalanche beacons, shovel, probe …everything. Her knowledge made me feel completely safe.”
Every gate they passed through, Chess radioed in to confirm their location, repeating the process upon exit. That kind of diligence gave Sharlene peace of mind, especially for someone heading into lift-accessed backcountry on just her second day of the season.
“I was a bit worried, even though I’m fit back home, I hadn’t been on skis since last season. But Chess made me feel so supported.” Despite sub-par snow conditions, Chess chose terrain perfectly suited to Sharlene’s ability and even showed her where they’d go if fresh snow had fallen.
“It wasn’t about extreme Instagram backcountry skiing. It was about being smart and matching the terrain to my level. That knowledge was gold.”
On day one in Niseko, Sharlene spotted a nearby mountain and immediately thought, I’m not hiking that. But by day three, with Chess by her side, she was halfway up it , skis strapped to her pack, climbing with confidence.
“She made it feel so achievable. I’d been training at home for a hike in New Zealand with my mum and sisters, but uphill in skis? That’s a whole new level. Still, I did it. It wasn’t like walking in sneakers, but it felt amazing.”
Throughout the day, Chess regularly checked in to see if Sharlene needed a break, a coffee, or just to catch her breath. That care made all the difference.
“You feel so powerful and strong, like you can do anything.”
By the end of the day, Sharlene felt elated , proud of herself, buzzing with confidence, and ready for more adventure. “I’ve still got a way to go, but I was stoked with what I achieved. It was such a boost, and now I want to do more of this.”
The professionalism and safety protocols of Rhythm Japan left a lasting impression too. “I didn’t expect to feel so secure , they really nailed it.”
Francesca “Chess” Smee
@itsmeechess, Backcountry Ski Guide, Snowsports Coach, Outdoor Educator, Adventure Film & Media Producer.
@k7adventures – Jindabyne, NSW
@rhythmjapan – Niseko, Japan
@mavenfilm – Media & Guest Speaker
