By Aaron Checkwood

February 24, 2000

In the last issue of SNOWboarding Business, a company-for-sale classified was placed about an industry-leading snowboard camp based in the High Cascades. It touted a highly successful business, perfect for an entrepreneurial investor. Although the name of the camp and the price weren’t given, the High Cascade Snowboard Camp can be bought for 3,250,000 dollars. But if it’s so successful, why would they sell it?

Ten years ago John Ingersoll approached John Calkins about starting a business, which, up until then, had been an uncharted industry. Based out of Government Camp, Oregon, their mission was to provide a fun, safe, professionally run snowboard camp.

After ten years the owners are ready for new challenges. Calkins wants to pursue other entrepreneurial pursuits, spend time with his family, and have more freedom to enjoy Central Oregon. Ingersoll has spent fifteen years in Government Camp, six with a ski camp, and nine building HCSC. He now says he wants to pursue real-estate development and spend more time with his family as well.

Both owners will continue to manage the camp throughout the transition phase of the sale. Even though they’re selling their "baby," they want to see it prosper into the future.

Annual gross for 1998 was in excess of two-million dollars and is expected to be 2.4-million for 1999. Earnings before taxes and depreciation were over seventeen percent in 1998 and expected to be at 22 percent in 1999.

The price also includes the sister company SnoZone Boarding and Video, Inc. (SB and V). The owners feel the two businesses are "very turnkey and ready for ownership potentials."

HCSC has had a goal of becoming totally self-sufficient. The boardwalk facility, a 10,000-square-foot lodge, and the newly acquired Red Roof complex will be the cornerstone of their plans. There is also a fleet of 23 vehicles, two fully equipped kitchens, and all the equipment needed to provide numerous recreational and sporting activities for 1,600 campers each summer.

The price, according to the owners, is justified considering their past three years’ performance. They feel they know the strength of their business both as a well-established snowboard camp and complementary real-estate investment opportunity. Seriously interested buyers can contact Ken Stevenson at: (541) 318-0201.