VERMONT’S INAUGURAL CATAMOUNT TRAIL BC CHALLENGE RACE SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 8TH

BOLTON VALLEY—What is certain to become one of Vermont’s most popular Winter events, The Annual Catamount Trail BC Challenge Race, will stage its inaugural competition Saturday March 8. The back country adventure will run 16 kilometers along the Catamount Trail from Trapp Family Touring Center in Stowe to the Bolton Valley Touring Center in Bolton.

“This will be a tremendous event on what is recognized as some of the best back country ski terrain in North America,” said Bolton Valley Nordic Director Liz Hollenbach in announcing the event. “It is a benefit race for the Catamount Trail Association, who manages and protects the 300 mile Catamount ski trail that spans the length of Vermont. It is going to be a great race on a challenging course!”

The race will be limited to 75 participants in two categories: Male and female. There are no age categories. The registration fee is $50 and registration must be completed prior to race day. The fee includes a post-race meal and prizes for the top three men and women finishers and a prize raffle for all participants. Registration opens February 11 online at www.skireg.com.

“About 70 percent of the course is non-groomed trail and conditions will vary tremendously,” continued Hollenbach. “Participants will encounter a 2,420-foot vertical climb from Nebraska Notch Road to the highest elevation on the Catamount Trail and then descend 1,820 vertical feet on a narrow trail to the Bolton Valley Touring Center.”

Racers are advised to be equipped to handle all types of weather and snow. A small backpack with food, water and extra clothing is recommended. There will be no aid stations on the course. Racers will be permitted one pair of skis and poles for the entire race, but will be allowed to use skins. Racers must stay on the Catamount Trail, designated by blue Catamount paw diamonds on trees throughout the course. The only exception is when departing on groomed trails at the Trapp Family Touring Center.

The mass start will occur at 10 a.m. Race packet pickup is Saturday, race day, between 9:00 and 9:45 a.m., at Trapp Family Lodge. Each racer is responsible for race day car shuttle. Complete information is available at www.catamounttrail.org.