Backcountry ski race at Alpental

[dlando]

Thought I'd pass this on in case any are interested...

Subject: Backcountry Ski Race March 31st at Alpental

Three weeks to go... And another benefit for the Avalanche Center!!!

Life-Link/DynaFit Randonee Rally at Alpental

When : The race is March 31st. Race starts at 8:00 am.

There will be a mandatory, pre-race meeting, packet and bib pickup on Friday, March 29. 6:00 p.m. at REI downtown Seattle, in the meeting room. Rules, general race information, and specific course information will be discussed at 7:00 p.m.

Where : Alpental. The race route leads up in the ski area to the out of bounds gate, across the Great Scott Traverse, climbs Piss Pass and downhill ski the Great Scott Bowl. Then, skins back on and reverse the course. For the Elite catagory racers, the course will include the Rec. catagory course, then skin to Source Lake, skin up to Pineapple Pass, ski down the Great Scott Bowl, skin up to Piss Pass and across the Great Scott Traverse, then to the finish line via the ski area. The course promises to be a challenge through Alpental's breathtaking backcountry terrain.

Entry Fee : $35 for individuals or $30 per team member and $20 lift tickets (unless you have a season pass).

Registration : You may enter at the R.E.I downtown Seattle store or online <http://life-link.com/alpregistration.htm> at Life-Link.com and mail in the registration or drop it off at R.E.I (downtown store only). Entry forms will be available at Alpental Guest Services and Retail after Feb. 22. All entries must be dropped off at the R.E.I downtown stores or mailed to P.O Box 2913, Jackson Hole, WY 83001. No entries accepted at the Summit at Snoqualmie.

Discipline : Racers must ascend by use of climbing skins. Randonnee, Telemark or splitboards allowed.

Divisions : Men/Women Elite Catagory, Men/Womens Recreational Catagory, and team. Teams are made up of 3 people (men/women or combined).

Mandatory Requirements : Safety straps or brakes required. Avalanche Transceiver, shovel and probe required.

Contact Information : Go to Life-Link.com <http://www.life-link.com/> or phone 1-800-443-8620 ex 175 For local information, call Bruce Greenstein at 206-287-4836.

General Information : This Alpine Touring race highlights the strengths and endurance of local skiers, while benefiting the NW Weather and Avalanche Center.

Volunteer Opportunities : If you do not wish to race, but want to get involved, you may volunteer to help coordinate the race. Spots for checkpoint duty are still avaiable (that way you get to tour part of the course to get to the checkpoint, as well as base area help. Contact Bruce Greenstein for more info at 206-287-4836.

This event is sponsored by Dynafit, Life-Link, REI, Pro Guiding Service, Off-Piste Magazine, and others. The Avalanche Center appreciates your participation.