Description

The Vertical Challenge is a series of free casual ski and snowboard races open to all ages and abilities. Skiers and snowboarders are divided by gender and age to compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals in each category. In addition to the races, attendees enjoy a festival element, featuring snowy activities, games, free samples, and swag for all ages, plus prizes given away throughout a fun day at the mountain. We had an absolute blast last year. Don’t miss the fun! The race offers something for everyone: Giant Slalom, 12 to 15 gates Male & female All ages Skiers & snowboarders Adaptive categories “We’re really excited to get to visit so many of our friends at New England’s best resorts,’” said Vertical Challenge owner Heather Clifford. “We’re also really excited to go into our second year with expanded adaptive categories. Giving every racer a chance to compete and have fun is truly at the heart of the VC.” All ages and ability levels compete on a giant slalom course. For standard events, registration opens at 7:30am, the festival and sampling village begins at 9am, and racing happens between 10am-12pm followed by a 1:30pm awards ceremony. For the second season, the VC will utilize male and female skiing adaptive divisions for ages 12-and-under, 13-19, 20-30, and 31-and-up. Each age and gender category is further subdivided for those competing with and without special equipment. The VC will also once again raise funds for nonprofits who offer assistance to those in need. At events held in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, raffles and other fundraisers will benefit the state Make- A-Wish chapter. The Vertical Challenge races are free for participants thanks to tour sponsors. To enter, racers complete a registration form, which can be done in advance at ski-vc.com under the “Competitors” tab. The VC will once again work with NASTAR for racer registration and results. The top three finishers in each category qualify for the finals, tentatively scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2025 at a resort to be announced. Register here