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This winter, spread the love with a Pair Pass from The Canyons. If twolift-tickets, two burgers, and two drinks for just $109 doesn’t get yourblood pumping, maybe the 3,700 acres of world-famous powder will. Get all the details only at www.pairpass.com.

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4 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

WINTER 2009VOL. 27 NO 1

6 STARTING LINE Solitude Chocolate Lovers Tour, Park City

Free Winter Concerts, Utah Winter Games, Visa Freestyle International Event

8 RESORT REPORT Best Camps and Clinics at Utah Ski Resorts

FEATURES10 Snowboarding in Utah An Adolescent Sport Grows Up BY Josh Scheuerman

16 XTERRA Winter World Championship Highlights

BY Adam W. Chase

19 TRAVEL Head South for the Winter...at Least for a

Weekend or Two BY Bob Grove

21 NUTRITION Healthy Energy Drinks and Bars

24 GEAR Picks for the New Year

26 CALENDAR Two Months Worth of Calendar Listings

30 LAST WORD WHAT’S HOT Size Adjustable Kids’ Ski Boots DOES IT WORK? Ski Pal BY Rachael Hodson

ON THE COVER Brighton, Utah Snowboarder- Joey Papazian Richard Cheski Photography; cheski.com

2009 BIKES ARRIVING

2008BIKES PRICED TO MOVE

BEAT THE RUSH!NOW is the time to get fi t!

Call for an appointment today.Utah’s Most Experienced Fit Technician

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We also carry:

DEALER

PUBLISHERDan Miller

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERPaula Bell

MANAGING EDITORJennifer Willden

CONTRIBUTORSJosh Scheuerman, Rachael Hodson, Bob Grove,

Adam W. Chase, Kevin Lewis, Todd Goss, Frank Carter, Andy Wright, Bob Varga, Scott Markowitz, Dennis Nazari,

Nils Nilsen, Richard Cheski

ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION MANAGERJackie Medina

GRAPHIC DESIGNDavid M. Giardinelli, Matt Hall, Ken Magleby, Patrick Witmer

REGIONAL ADVERTISING SALESPaula Bell, Eric Jensen, Melissa McGibbon, Paul Nicholas,

Don Nothdorft801.467.9419

NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALESDoug Kaplan – ADVERTISING DIRECTOR/PUBLISHER

Mary Jansen – NORTHWESTJustin Sands – SOUTHWEST

Brian Hasenbauer – SOUTHCENTRALKatie O’Connell – MOUNTAIN STATESJohn Smith – FOOTWEAR/PUBLISHER

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Distribution Inquiries Call Jessica 801.467.9419

DISTRIBUTIONChristopher Read, Ryan Snow

winter 2009

Many of the activities covered in the Sports Guide are action sports carrying signifi cant risk of personal injury or death. Sports Guide, including its writers, pho-tographers and other staff and management, does not recommend that anyone par-ticipate in these sports unless they are supremely expert, knowledgeable about the risks and willing to personally assume all responsibility associated with those risks.

Also, the views herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily refl ect those of the magazine’s management or ownership. Sports Guide welcomes story, art and photo contributions. We will consider, but assume no responsibility for, unsolicited proposals, manuscripts, art and photographs; all such material must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope or it will not be returned.

MILLS PUBLISHING, INC. retains reprint rights, including affi liated internet site reprints, but contributors retain all other rights for resale, republication, etc. Sports Guide is not responsible for unsolicited contributions, lost or damaged photo material. Send contributions to Sports Guide, c/o Mills Publishing, Inc., 772 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah 84106, 801-467-9419; email editor@sports-guidemag.com. For advertising information please call 801.467.9419 or email info@sportsguidemag.com.

Published by: Mills Publishing, Inc. Salt Lake City, Utah. Copyright 2009 by Mills Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

STAFF

Kirkham’s carries waterproof and breathable gear that is tested and proven to

stand up in any weather, from head to toe. From car camping in Escalante, hiking

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gear you need, rain or shine, plus a knowledgable and friendly staff that uses the

gear they sell. Kirkham’s, a Utah store since 1944!

6 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

5

20th Annual Chocolate Lovers Tour

The Starting Line

Park City Free

Winter Concert

Series

Come celebrate live music on Main Street on behalf of The Canyons at the fi rst annual Park City Free Winter Concert Series at HarryO’s. Concerts times are all from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. each Thursday. HarryO’s is a private club for members and is located on 427 Main St., Park City, UT. www.thecanyons.com

Concert Schedule:

January 28:Erin Barra (New York City, NY)

February 5: Downright Blue

February 12: Coles Whalen (Nashville, TN)

February 19: Motherlode Canyon Band

February 26: Jordon Booth

March 5: Mud Puddle

March 12: TBA

March 19: Clumsy Lovers (Vancouver, BC)

Ski at Solitude on January 24 and get free chocolate treats. From Cream O’ Weber chocolate milk to Premium Ice Cream Creamies, there’s more than enough for everyone on the mountain to enjoy some delicious goodies. You can even win great prizes by completing a passport tour of the mountain. www.skisolitude.com

Editor’s Note

Welcome to the new year and to a new issue of Sports Guide. I’m Jenny Willden, Sports Guide magazine’s new editor. Exciting changes are coming that will make this magazine even better and I want to share a few with you. First, we’re working on a more comprehensive, revamped website with extra articles, more event listings and interactive capabilities. It’s not ready yet, but will be available soon at: www.sportsguidemag.com.

Second, in an effort to help the environment, Sports Guide will now be printed on recycled paper at a more convenient size. We’ll still be delivering great stories, current event information and many of the columns you’ve always enjoyed in Sports Guide, but we’ll also be fi nding ways to get you more involved. From contests to giveaways to chances to have your photos published, you’ll see yourself in this magazine more than ever. Look below for our fi rst giveaway of the year. For more news, contests and prizes, check out Sports Guide magazine’s new blog: sportsguidemag.blogspot.com.

So take Sports Guide with you this winter as you enjoy all the activities the Mountain West has to offer. In this issue you’ll catch highlights from last year’s XTERRA Winter World Championship (page 16), learn about the history of Utah snowboarding (page 10) and see a nearby vacation spot where you can escape the cold (page 19).

Also, look for our annual Keeper issue, coming out in February. It’s the guide to this year’s local and national races, events, gear swaps and more. You’ll love having it on hand to plan your active year ahead.

— Jenny WilldenComments/feedback/complaints: email - editor@sportsguidemag.com or mail to 772 E. 3300 S., Suite 200, SLC, UT 84106

SPORTS GUIDE GiveawayHere’s your chance to win a box of a healthy, natural energy drink, Zipfi zz. All you have to do is send an email to: editor@sportsguidemag.com with your ideas and comments about how we can improve Sports Guide. We want this magazine to be for you, active individuals who love adventuring outdoors, so please, tell us what you think. One random commenter will win a free box of Zipfi zz, an all natural sports and energy drink mix that you add to a regular bottle of water. It’s loaded with B vitamins, electrolytes and antioxidants and is great for maintaining energy and hydration throughout the year. Learn more about it at: www.zipfi zz.com. Check out our Nutrition column on page 21 to see a variety of other all natural energy drinks.

Tubbs Romp

to Stomp Out

Breast Cancer

Strap on your snowshoes and get ready to participate in the Tubbs Romp to Stomp out Breast Cancer®. This snowshoe walk/run is modeled after the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and takes place in Salt Lake City on February 7, 2009. The Romp consists of a 3K or 5K benefi t snowshoe walk or a 3K fun race at Mountain Dell Golf Course, located off of 1-80 seven miles from the mouth of Parley’s Canyon (Exit #134). The trails are easy and well-marked, and free snowshoe demos from Tubbs are available, which makes this a fun event for anyone, even if you’ve never snowshoed before! Cost is $25 for pre-registration and $35 on the day of the Romp. All proceeds will go to benefi t the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Even if you’re snowed in, or sleeping in, on the day of the Romp you can still participate by donating online. www.tubbsromptostomp.com

STARTING LINE

winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 7

Utah Winter

Games Get moving this winter by trying a new sport at the Utah Winter Games. Now in its 23rd year, the Utah Winter Games is the largest and oldest amateur event of its kind in the United States. The goal of the Games is to support athleticism and to encourage people of all ages to incorporate winter sports into their lives. Just pick the winter sport you want to try and attend an affordable clinic (between $5 and $35) to teach you how to do it. Instruction and equipment rentals are included. Clinics are offered in the sports of bobsled, cross country, curling, fi gure skating, hockey, luge, skeleton, ski jumping, skiing, snowboarding, speed skating and telemark. Events take place at local ski resorts and the Utah Olympic Park. While some clinics take place in December, many are still available in January. To register online, go to the Utah Winter Games website. Timothy Preston, Winter Games Project Manager, said, “The registration deadline is two days before each clinic.” But he said to register sooner if you want to attend the popular luge clinic, which fi lls up quickly every year. In February, competitions in many of the Game’s sports will be taking place at the Utah Olympic Park and various ski resorts. To show off your skills and compete in these events, which include ski racing, cross country and luge, visit the Utah Winter Games website for an event calendar and registration information. www.utahwintergames.org

Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort are hosting a Freestyle World Cup event from January 29 – 31 with competitors from around the world that will challenge each other and themselves on Deer Valley’s 2002 Olympic runs. New this season, in addition to aerials, moguls and dual moguls, Deer Valley will part-ner with Park City Mountain Resort to host a ski halfpipe event. On January 29, there will be live entertainment on Main Street, near the Town Lift Plaza, followed by fi reworks. All events are free to the public. For those guests looking for an enhanced spectator experience at Deer Valley, Freestyle Feast event tickets are available for either dinner on Friday or Saturday for $80, or lunch on Thursday for $65 in the VIP Tent, which includes a commemorative gift. Tickets can be purchased by calling 435-645-6510. www.deervalley.com

After a long day of skiing or snowboarding in Park City, there’s no better way to warm up than heading to Midway to swim in the Homestead Crater. It’s a 55-foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock that has been naturally hollowed out and fi lled with hot water. It’s open to the public via a tunnel dug through the rock wall and you can swim, scuba dive, snorkel or just enjoy a therapeutic soak in the crystal clear mineral water. The Homestead Crater is the only warm water scuba diving destination in the continental United States and it’s a great place to get certifi ed.

The crater is open from 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., Monday through Sunday. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 1-888-327-7220. www.homesteadresort.com

Warm Up at the

Homestead Crater

8 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

RESORT REPORT

Deer ValleyMahre Training Center Ski Camp (February 6–8) This session, conducted in part by Olympic medal winners Phil and Steve Mahre, provides fundamentals to all ability levels. Includes daily instruction by top ski instructors, indoor sessions, unique Mahre Training Center progression, video and other amenities. For ages 12 and up. Price is $685 and lift tickets are included.

Men’s and Women’s Weekends (January 30 - February 1) Improve your skills and expand the types of terrain you can ski, while learning with others of similar abilities. These clinics are specifi cally designed for men or women and are conducted by top ski instructors. Price is $495 and doesn’t include lift tickets. www.deervalley.com

The CanyonsBrant Moles’ Steep Skiing Camp (February 6-8)This clinic, led by one of the best Big Mountain skiers in the world, will focus on skiing steeper, more technical terrain safely and confi dently. This isn’t a backcountry clinic; however, some backcountry skills such as how to read the terrain, select a safe line, basic avalanche awareness and technical skiing techniques will be taught. Designed for intermediate to advanced skiers. Price is $470 and doesn’t include a lift ticket. For ages 18 and up.

Holly Flanders Workshops (February 6-8, March 6-8)Taught by Olympian Holly Flanders, this workshop enables women to improve their skiing in an atmosphere of support and friendship. Individuals must be intermediate level skiers or above. Price is $470 and doesn’t include a lift ticket. For ages 18 and up. www.thecanyons.com

AltaAlta Performance Ski Camp (January 19-22, February 16-19, March 9-12)This new camp integrates the assets of Alta and Snowbird ski areas with a progressive approach to coaching expert, all-mountain skiers. Price is $800 and doesn’t include lift tickets. www.alta.com

SnowbirdSki to Live (January 29-February 1)For all intermediate to professional level skiers who want to learn more about who they are as athletes – and as people – in a powerful environment. Learn through morning yoga, on-hill coaching which focuses on the mental and spiritual side of sports and evening interactions. Price is $1590 and includes meals, spa and workshops.

Big Mountain Skiing and Riding (February 4-7)This camp outlines the skills and knowledge necessary to safely access the backcountry and wild terrain unique to the Alps, Alaska and many top U.S. resorts. Combines lift, backcountry and heli access in Utah’s Wasatch Range. Price is $2160. For experts ages 16 and up.

Women’s Ski Camp (January 18-22 and March 15-19)Small group sizes allow women to move and learn at their own pace in a supportive women only peer environment with plenty of one-on-one coaching. Price is $640. For intermediates through experts ages 16 and up.

Women’s Snowboard Camp (March 6-9)Women will enjoy a supportive peer environment led by pro women as they learn to tackle steeps, negotiate trees, whisk through chutes and ride in powder. Price is $400. For all skill levels ages 16 and up. www.snowbird.com

SnowbasinAvalanche Level I Class (Jan. 10, 17, 24)Learn how to prepare for and carry out a trip, to understand avalanches and basic decision making while in avalanche terrain, as well as rescue techniques. Price is $210 and includes a lift ticket.

Looking to improve your skiing or snowboarding skills this season? Then check out these great clinics and camps at local ski resorts. You’ll learn a variety of techniques and make new friends while you’re doing it.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 27

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* Spring Season Passes are valid March 2 through the end of the 2008-09 winter season. **Copies of this coupon are not accepted. Coupon expires April 1, 2009 # T00077

10 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

SNOWBOARDING IN UTAH: By Josh Scheuerman

AN ADOLESCENT SPORT GROWS UP

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SNOWBOARDING BEGAN WITH AN UNCERTAIN BIRTH, GREW TO AN AGGRESSIVE YOUTH AND MATURED TO BECOME A MAINSTREAM WINTER AND OLYMPIC SPORT. ALTHOUGH THE FIRST SNOWBOARD WAS NOT CREATED IN UTAH, THIS STATE HAS PLAYED A LARGE ROLE IN HELPING SNOWBOARDING BECOME THE SUCCESSFUL, POWERFUL FORCE IT IS TODAY. THIS SHORT HISTORY EXPLAINS UTAH’S INFLUENCE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS SPORT AND THE PEOPLE WHO HELPED IT GROW.

winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 11

THE BIRTH OF A SPORT – The beginning of snowboarding’s history can be traced back to Sherman Poppen, who invented the Snurfer in 1965 for his kids on a small, snowy knoll in Muskegon, Michigan. This fi rst design was a solid wood plank, but guided with the use of a rope attached to the nose.

Near the same time, snowboards as we know them today were beginning to be developed all over the United States with different designs for various snow conditions.

In 1972 Dimitrije Milovich quit college to pursue building the fi rst snowboards in Utah with the help and design of Wayne Stoveken, a

Long Island surfer, who had created one of the fi rst snowboards without a rope to guide the rider. Milovich arrived in Utah in 1972 and hitched his way up to Snowbird to inquire about a job for the following winter to work on his design. He happened to catch a ride with the wife of Ted Johnson, Snowbird’s then owner, and she arranged a meeting with Johnson for him. After showing Johnson the snowboard design Milovich asked if he could test the board at Snowbird and Johnson agreed.

Milovich also talked to Chick Morgan, Alta’s then general manager, to get approval to ride there as well. Morgan and Alta’s Ski Patrol agreed to let him ride at Alta after a screw and a leash were attached to the board. This was one of the fi rst leashes for the snowboard and was for the safety of the sport and of those sharing the slopes.

Milovich worked on his design, shaving down the board from 2” thick to 1/2” and added a swallowtail for control in Utah’s powder. In 1974 Stoveken moved to Utah and he and Milovich founded Winterstick Snowboards. Winterstick rolled out its fi rst boards in 1977-78 with the help of the three other passionate employees: Renee Sessions, Don Moss and John Griffi ns.

As momentum grew around the country, pockets of snowboarders took to the hills from coast to coast, and people across the nation began making snowboards. Tom Sims made SIMS boards in California, Jake Burton made Burton boards in Vermont and Mike Olson handcrafted Mervin boards in Colorado. Here in Utah, Winterstick snowboards grew in popularity and resorts allowed them on a limited basis. By the late 1970s this new sport continued to grow with a core base, but at trade shows there was still little support for it.

Unfortunately, a skier crashed at Stratton Mountain Resort in Vermont and sued the resort. Consequently resorts had to create by-laws, ski-at-your-own-risk instruction and ban nontraditional ski sports. This prohibited anything besides downhill Alpine skis; goodbye to telemark skis and snowboards. In 1981, with resorts banning snowboarding on the hills, Winterstick was forced to close its doors with only a few customers hiking and riding Utah’s powder. However, Milovich and Dwain Bush opened up a small windsurfi ng shop, called Milosport, which later became a core snowboarding shop. Winterstick was resurrected in 1994 as a Utah sports retailer and continues to make snowboards today, including the famous swallowtail.

THE TUMULTUOUS TEENAGE YEARS – When resorts unanimously banned all sports besides downhill Alpine skiing, there was one exception, Alta Resort. If you wanted to load and unload on skis and then switch to a snowboard, you were allowed to do so, but not on groomed runs. Alta’s holdout on banning snowboarding ended in December 1984 when complaints about snowboarders leaving boot holes in cat tracks and their unruly behavior outweighed the value of their ticket purchases, and they were asked not to come back to Alta.

In 1982, before the closure of Utah resorts for the season, Jake Burton-Carpenter said this in the fi rst issue of Snowboard magazine, “I’ve had the most fun in resort areas, but I don’t think it should be pushed for resorts to have to allow snowboarders. After all, there is always the backwoods type of snowboarding. I think it should be stressed that if you can fi nd a resort that allows you to ride there, courtesy must be used at all times. It will just help out in the long run.” The truth in this statement remains today: maintaining mutual respect is the only way to keep the sport available at public resorts.

In 1985, snowboard manufactures Barfoot, Flite, SIMS and Burton were just starting to make a profi t and organize snowboarding. The Southwest Surf Skiers Association was campaigning for snowboarding to be accepted at resorts around the country with chapters in each state talking to resorts

Rich Varga - Method off cornice

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to gain access to their slopes again. Between 1984 and 1986 Dennis Nazari formed the Utah Chapter and helped certify boarders. A Certifi cation Card was proof that a snowboarder could make turns and had a leash on his board. But when a skier collided with a certifi ed snowboarder in Colorado, the snowboarder sued the resort because the skier wasn’t certifi ed to ski. Instead of certifying Alpine skiers, the Certifi cation Card policy was dropped, which allowed snowboarders to buy lift tickets without the restrictions of certifi cation.

With the campaigning of Nazari in Salt Lake and Tim Strong and Kevin Champagne in Ogden, Utah resorts slowly allowed snowboarding back on the mountains. In 1986, Beaver Mountain in Logan, Utah became the fi rst resort to open its lifts back up to snowboarding

Jeff Davis - Upside down, J.D. Crippler, is the trick. Park West

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winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 13

full-time. At the time only 7% of all resorts in the world allowed snowboarding. Brighton, Park West and Powder Mountain followed in the next two seasons.

With years of riding under their belts, local Utah fi lmmakers Mick Worthin and Mike Lookinland (a.k.a. Bobby Brady) shot “Tallest Wave” and showcased Utah talent. In 1987, Salty Peaks, the fi rst specialty snowboard shop, opened its doors in Utah, and snowboarders fi nally had a place to purchase boards and equipment. Today Salty Peaks is home to the Utah Snowboarding Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of vintage snowboards.

Each year there was more pressure to allow snowboarding at resorts, and by the late 1980s Sundance, Elk Meadows and Brian Head offered full access to snowboarders, which left Snowbird, Park City, Deer Valley, Solitude and Alta as Utah’s skiing only resorts.

In 1989 the Utah Snowboard Association was formed with a contest circuit between Park West, Powder Mountain, Sundance and Nordic Valley. The fi rst pipe and slalom contests were hosted at Park West and Powder Mountain and helped gain recognition for Utah boarders, allowing them to enter the national circuit of events taking place in California and Colorado.

Snowbird had a short trial for snowboarding in the spring of 1990 then allowed it full-time the following season, leaving just four Utah resorts as skiing only.

Documenting snowboarding in Utah became a full-time job for two friends who set out to make a snowboarding magazine in Utah. In 1994 Andy Wright and Jared Eberhardt founded Medium magazine and

covered snowboarding’s furious evolution, both locally and abroad. In 1995, Solitude opened its slopes to snowboarding.

THE TWENTIES - By the late 1990s there were between 300-350 snowboard companies worldwide and nearly 4 million snowboarders. In Utah, Shift and Caution made snowboards and Bilt made outerwear. In 1998 Mack Dawg released the movie “Decade,” which featured rails and freestyle snowboarding–all of which happened in Salt Lake.

Snowboarding took a huge growing step when it became an Olympic sport at the 1998 Nagano Games. Full of controversy and media-induced hype, snowboarders lived up to their image by destroying rooms and nearly being stripped of a gold medal. Despite these problems, snowboarding has remained an Olympic sport and grown in popularity. Currently, there are six Olympic snowboarding events.

In 1998, Whitey McConnaughey returned to Utah after a year hiatus and fi lmed “The Revival”, featuring many up and coming riders who would be snowboarding’s new stars. Utah’s part in snowboarding’s history is undeniable. As the century came to an end, Utah was one of the biggest infl uences on the world snowboard scene. Utah had more footage in snowboard videos and magazines than any other single location in the world and many pro snowboarders rode in Utah.

ADULTHOOD – Now over 30 years old, snowboarding’s infl uence in mainstream media has turned the sport into a money-making machine. The new millennium saw money fl owing into snowboarding. It reached its biggest popularity in 2004 at 6.6 million participants and was accepted at 97% of resorts worldwide. Although snowboarding has decreased to roughly 5 million boarders today, global sales are still climbing, despite recession worries. During the August – October 2008

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pre-season $507 million worth of snowboarding product was sold, up 9% from last year.

The Winter X Games have also been a money-maker and have received over ten years of television, newspaper, magazine and video coverage. Also, legends are being made. Shaun White dominates as king of the promotional machine with mega sponsors and larger than life paychecks. While Travis Rice, considered one of the world’s best snowboarders, is setting a new standard of where snowboarding is heading with possibilities stretching beyond what was once thought possible.

On March 18, 2008 Taos Ski Resort in New Mexico opened its slopes to snowboarding, leaving just three resorts in the United States that have kept the 1984 ban, two of which are in Utah. Whether these resorts ever allow snowboarding isn’t important: it’s the strides that have been made to allow snowboarding to become the worldwide, popular sport it is today.

Utah has played an important role in the history, growth and development of snowboarding and it will continue to infl uence the sport’s future as it advances in unimaginable ways.

Josh Scheuerman is an avid snowboarder and a blogger for Ride Utah. www.rideutah.com

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Shaun White at Park City Mountain Resort for the World Superpipe Competition.

14 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

Blogs•

Forums•

Bonus Features•

and much more…•

Coming Soon!Check out our new interactive website at

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For online advertising contact: sales@sportsguidemag.com

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16 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

5

This unique collection of winter activities was offered last March, when I was one of approximately 75 lucky racers to participate in the inaugural XTERRA Winter World Championships held at Snowbasin Ski Resort. The competitors included triathletes, winter sports specialists and adventure racers, all pitting themselves against the mountain for slope-side exertion and suspense.

Like many of my fellow competitors, I came to the race with a history of winter racing, having done winter adventure races, winter triathlons, ultra-distance snowshoe races and Nordic races. I’ve also competed in freestyle, mogul and Alpine ski racing. While comfortable on foot, snowshoes and skis, I wasn’t as enthused about the mountain biking leg but fi gured that the 10K of groomed Nordic couldn’t be that bad, especially since it was placed fi rst in the line-up with the hope of harder-packed trails.

Wild Beginning

It’s common knowledge that you should never make decisions mere moments before race start, but I threw caution to the wind and ignored that advice when I saw a friend slip out of his bike cleats and into his running shoes with only a few minutes before the gun. It had snowed the day before the race and the relatively warm weather made for clumpy snow, creating a challenge I’d not anticipated: diffi culty engaging clipless pedals. Being more of a runner than a biker, it was an easy decision to follow my friend’s lead and substitute running shoes for bike cleats. While that call might have hampered my riding speed, given the lack of an upstroke, it helped me on hike-a-bike uphill sections and I didn’t mind avoiding the frustration of not being able to clip in when I wanted.

The race began with a dramatic mass-start on a downhill ski run, with people careening off in various directions as we descended, losing traction as they struggled to stay upright. There were some crashes, but snow is a forgiving surface and there were no casualties. The fi eld was soon

by Adam W. ChaseAdmittedly, combining the activities of snow mountain biking, randonnee skiing, snowshoeing and running on snow is not something most would conjure up for an average day of fun. But then, “average” and “fun” shouldn’t be used in the same sentence, especially by adventure seekers who have learned to embrace the extreme.

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winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 17

strung out as people found their rhythm on the moderately fl at Nordic trails. The excitement and camaraderie on the course was tangible and racers yelled encouragement to one another as the course looped back on itself.

A 5K snowshoe race followed the bike leg on punchy snow. At times the snowshoe course put us on technical singletrack trail that ran the field over a hilly, wooded loop. The change in disciplines from bike to snowshoes shuffled the deck and allowed those who prefer to have their feet on the snow – i.e. me – to make up some ground on the bigger-legged types who dominated in the saddle. I’ve been snowshoe racing for more than a dozen years and appreciated the fact that XTERRA saw fit to include the discipline in the mix of winter sports. It beats ice fishing, that’s for sure.

After snowshoeing up a steep hill to the transition area, we changed into our running shoes for a snow run on Nordic trails, beginning with the same descent we’d ridden down earlier that morning. The course followed some rolling hills to the out-and-back terminus and back to the transition area, where we mounted our skis. While on the run, it was fun to catch passing glimpses of the fi eld, gauging our relative position. I had used the snowshoe race and run to work my way back from the middle of the pack to the top 20 and was feeling pretty good, knowing that I still had half the run and skiing coming my way.

A Lesson Learned

It was the fi nal ski leg of the Winter XTERRA that really burned the competitors and separated the pack. The course ascended more than 2000 vertical feet, up the face of expert runs. This seemed like torture to our legs, which were already spent from the earlier disciplines. The ski stage took just under 50% of the full event time and for many of the athletes, the descents weren’t pretty, given the rubbery states of most peoples’ legs at that point in the competition.

They say that you only make a mistake if you fail to learn from your experiences. My lesson during the skiing stage was that sticky snow and Ascension skins, which allow you to climb hills in skis, without a

surface wax (Glop Stopper) or spray (Skin Spray) to ward off clumping underfoot leads to unwanted weight gain. Granted, it also resulted in my “ascending”, as it were, from 5’7” to being taller than 6’, but the gain in height would only melt away like so may other delusions. The extra pounds of my “lesson” converted the steep climbs with fatigued legs into pure toil so what might have been a slight glide became a rather hefty clomp. I was soon sweating bullets as I marched straight up the slopes of Snowbasin.

Fortunately, what goes up gets to go down and we were treated to delightful descents at the end of each of the three climbs, complete with giant slalom gates to direct us away from the parade route of other competitors who were still on the treacherous climb.

Trading Places

Brian Smith came away as the fi rst XTERRA Winter World Champion in a dramatic three-way challenge that saw the lead exchanged several times during the fi nal ski stage. Smith ultimately edged out Josiah Middaugh, nipping him at the line.

Yet it was the Frenchman, Nicolas Lebrun who, after passing Middaugh, had been leading with only a few minutes left in the race, only to crash after snagging his ski in some fresh powder on the descent. He had to climb a short way back up the hill to retrieve his ski. Middaugh, who had chosen to use lighter-weight, Nordic-style skis, then re-passed Lebrun, only to struggle on the fi nal GS gates before the fi nish. Middaugh took numerous spills as he attempted to maneuver the gates and, as the crowds cheered at the fi nish line from the views of the fast-charging Smith, Middaugh was unable to respond. In an instant, with only meters to go, the speedy Smith skied by Middaugh on his more substantial Alpine-style radonnee gear, squeezing by on the inside of the next to last gate to take the honors in 1:58:29.

The women’s fi eld also saw the lead change places several times during the race. Sari Anderson, a professional adventure racer who returned this winter after giving birth in 2007, skied her way past Kari Nelson and, eventually, Rebecca Dussault, who recently returned to

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competition after having her second child and had led the race for all but the fi nal 15 minutes. Anderson held her lead and won the race in 2:29.47.

From Dirt to Snow

Dave Nicholas, Managing Director of Team Unlimited, which puts on the XTERRA Global Tour, was quite proud of his organization’s fi rst winter event, “Because 70% of XTERRA athletes are involved in winter sports, we’ve wanted to put on a snow-based multi-sport race for a while now.”

The Winter XTERRA featured four disciplines rather than the usual three of Winter Tri and substituted ski mountaineering in lieu of Nordic skiing, which likely caused a stir among potential racers, given that many winter multi-sport athletes had become accustomed to the trio of run, mountain bike, skate ski. XTERRA has always been proud to be different and the race organization stayed true to form with this event, throwing in both snowshoeing and ski mountaineering.

The same four disciplines will be offered at the second XTERRA Winter World Championship, which will be held March 6-9, 2009 at Snowbasin Ski Resort in Ogden.

Adam W. Chase is the Trail Editor of Running Times and raced both the XTERRA Winter World Championship and the U.S. Snowshoe Championships so that he’d have an excuse for each event, “I’m going easy because I’m saving some steam for tomorrow.” And, “I’m knackered from yesterday’s race.”

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TRAVEL

Unless you live in Randolph, Utah or Evanston, Wyoming you’d probably agree that this winter hasn’t been as bitterly frigid as those experienced in recent years; chalk it up to global warming

or El Nino, but it’s still cold! If you’re like me I need a reprieve about this time of year from gray skies, slush, bitter winds and the infamous Wasatch inversion. My solution: jump in the car and point south. Now I know I can drive 30 minutes and be in the mountains where I can leave the valley sludge behind, but green grass, red rocks and conditions favorable for hiking and biking are prerequisites to my defi nition of a warm weather escape.

Just the right place for such an escape is St. George, known as Utah’s Dixie or the other Palm Springs. Tucked away in the southwest corner of Utah, St. George is a quick four hour drive down I-15 from Salt Lake. This is winter haven for Wasatch Front snowbirds and has been since the pioneers entered the valley.

There are number of reasons why now is a great time to visit St. George. First, it’s warm in the winter. Even 50 degrees feels warm after subfreezing temperatures in the Salt Lake Valley. It’s amazing how 50 degrees is jacket weather in the spring and fall and short sleeve weather in the winter. However, it does get quite cold at night in St. George so bring a warm jacket. Second, it offers an abundance of outdoor recreation. Washington County, home to St. George and Zion National Park, is an outdoor mecca of hiking, biking, ATVing. My favorite place to hike is Snow Canyon, one of Utah’s premier hiking parks, which is often overshadowed by nearby Zion. There are a number of trailheads located inside the park just off the main road, behind the Tuacahn Amphitheater and along Highway 18 that runs between St. George and Veyo. For information on Snow Canyon visit: www.stateparks.utah.gov.

If you want a relaxing place to stay on your visit, Red Mountain Spa in Ivins, just outside the entrance to Snow Canyon, offers packages that include lodging, healthy cuisine and activities like hiking in the park. Staying at Red Mountain combines adventure with pampering, which is how I like to rough it. For more information about Red Mountain visit: www.redmountainspa.com.

If St. George isn’t warm enough, just down the road a mere 35 miles is Mesquite and 75 miles further is Las Vegas. There you can fi nd warmer

TTTTGo South for the Winter…..

At least for a Weekend or Two

By Bob Grove

Hikers in Snow Canyon

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temperatures and plenty of outdoor recreation. No, gambling isn’t an outdoor sport unless you’re betting on who can descend the hill fastest without biffi ng it. For ideas on what to do in and around Mesquite and Las Vegas check out www.travelnevada.com and click on Things to Do.

One of the many benefi ts of living in the Wasatch Front is that you don’t have to go far for a change of scenery or temperature. With gas prices plummeting as they have the past few months taking a road trip won’t cost you next month’s paycheck. In fact, many of the lodging companies, recreation outfi tters and attractions are daring us to travel by offering deals we presumed were extinct. This is good news considering how tight the economy is. Travel to me is a necessity, not a want. It keeps me from becoming a couch slug and provides a needed dose of therapeutic decompression. You’re welcome to use this reason the next time you’re trying to justify a trip somewhere.

Whatever the reason, maybe making the short drive to St. George this winter will give you an added boost of vitamin

D and adrenaline that will clear your mind, reduce your stress and renew your spirit. Listen to the travel doctor; for Seasonal Affective Disorder, better known as the winter blues, I prescribe a healthy dose of Utah’s Dixie. Take three days, two nights and call me in the morning. For more information about Utah’s Dixie visit: www.utahstgeorge.com. Check out my blog at www.driveawayadventures.com for news, tips, insight and advice.

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winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 21

NUTRITION

■ Do you like getting your caffeine from coffee? Just stick to the coffee. Ac-

cording to the Nutrition Action newsletter, a Starbucks Venti (20 ounce) Caffè

Mocha with whole milk and whipped cream is loaded with 450 calories and 13

grams of saturated fat. Instead, order a tall (12 ounce) with nonfat milk and no

whipped cream. That brings you down to 170 calories and no saturated fat.

Recipes | New ProductsPower Food | Cookbooks

Not getting enough kick from carbs and electrolytes? Sev-eral popular performance foods are now amped up with caffeine. Camelbak’s Orange Alert with Caffeine infuses its l0-calorie electrolyte-packed formula with 75 mg of caf-feine. Each portable tablet, when mixed with 24 ounces of water, delivers plenty of vitamin B6, B12, ribofl avin, niacin, taurine and guarana to keep you moving. Pack of 12 is $10.

www.camelbak.com Sport Beans by Jelly Belly are pushing the limits with Extreme Sports Beans. Available in cherry and watermelon, each 100-calorie pack of tasty jelly beans offers 50 mg of caffeine as well as thiamin, ribofl avin and niacin. Pop a couple or a whole handful to keep the energy boost coming. Box of 24 is $22.50. www.sportbeans.com

New Caffeine Kicks

A Feast of FoodsIn her new book, Truly Cultured: Rejuvenating Taste, Health and Community with Naturally Fermented Foods, author, chef and holistic health expert Nancy Lee Bentley explains why bacteria never looked so good.

“They’re not the enemy,” says Bentley of the “bugs” that we’re always trying to rid ourselves of. “Ironically, bacteria are actually the secret missing key to our physical and environmental health…and they are also the key agents responsible for creating our favorite [cultured and

fermented] foods, including chocolate, cheese and coffee.”

In her book, Bentley offers a way to “rethink our relationship with food and these tiny critters, and learn how to eat our way back to good health, sense and enjoyment.” Truly Cultured is a feast of recipes, quips, quotes, quizzes, history and facts and fi gures to help readers understand the importance of live, cultured and fermented foods to our health. $25.95. www.trulycultured.com

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22 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

As athletes, we’re always on the lookout for that magical elixir that might give us an extra burst of energy. Lucky for us there are a number of new all-natural options to choose from.

Amazon Energy is a new organic energy drink made from four superfoods: açaí (ah-sigh-ee), a berry that grows in the Brazilian Amazon and is loaded with healthy fats and antioxidants; acerola, a super fruit chock full of vitamin C; guarana, a plant used by the Amazonian people that helps improve focus and increase metabolism and stamina; and yerba maté, a plant harvested in South America’s rainforest that is full of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. The combination of ingredients makes for a tasty, healthy drink that delivers great nutrition and sustained energy. $1.99/can. www.sambazon.com

Organic Energy Tea is the latest creation from Pixie Maté, makers of organic yerba maté tea blends. One 16-ounce bottle of Organic En-ergy Tea provides more than fi ve times the antioxidants of a serving of green tea, plus enough naturally occurring energy to rival two cans of Red Bull. Available in three fl avors—authentic yerba maté, lemon ginger black tea maté and green tea yerba maté. $1.69/bottle. www.pixiemate.com

Owater Infused is a new, all-natural drink that is a nice alternative to sugar-loaded vi-tamin and sport drinks. Owa-ter is infused with replenishing electrolytes, revitalizing anti-oxidants and energizing natu-ral caffeine and comes in six fruit fl avors including peach mango, black raspberry, lime lemon, strawberry, blueberry and coconut. $1.49/bottle. www.owater.com

Zico coconut water is made from 100% pure coconut water and is a healthy option for hydration. Coconut water (different from coconut milk) is a great source of potassium— one box of Zico has more potassium than a banana—and essential electrolytes, but it contains no fat. Available in three all-natural fl avors—natural, mango and passion fruit-orange peel. $2/box. www.zico.com

Drinking Naturally

[En]Vigorate Fido’s BrainIs the old dog’s bag of tricks getting smaller? Try Vigorate. The little doggie treats are said to work in just fi ve days to make your dog smarter and respond with less errors. Riiight, you say. Well, if they don’t work, you get your money back! The two main ingredients- Acetyl-L-Carnitine and Alpha Lipoic Acid are the same ingredients found in Juvenon, a health supplement for people to slow the cell aging process. After nibbling the little green, bone-shaped Vigorate morsels, your 13-year-old Collie may not be fetching you a beer anytime soon, but she’ll defi nitely be begging for more. $20-40. www.vigorate.com

NUTRITION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 23

Bake-At-HomeEnergy BarsIf you ever thought, “I could make these my-self!” Take a step in that direction with Mat-isse & Jack’s Bake-At-Home Snacks. Yummy straight from the oven, the Granola Bites, Co-coa Squares, Cranberry and Chocolate Chip Power Snacks are packed with organic, whole grains, cane juice, protein and Omega-3 ingredients. Kids of all ages get a healthy treat. Pack them in your lunch or your backpack. And unlike tradi-tional bakes, you can add supple-mental powders right into the mix without turning it into a tasteless mess. Allegedly, the recipes have been rigorously tested by a PhD-level food scientist and have won a few foodie awards, but what really mat-ters is they taste great. $6. www.matisseandjacks.com

Not Just BarsYou could argue that Clif Bar’s new line of wines surpasses their en-ergy bars. At least they go down a lot smoother! Now, whether you want toss back a healthy treat on the trail or a glass of vino on the deck, Clif Bar’s got you covered. Owners Gary Erickson and Kit Crawford founded the Clif Bar Family Winery in 2004 with a focus on sustainably farmed and organic grapes and the bottles are ready for market. Talk about your green (then red, then white). Clif search-es out organically certifi ed growers to source fruit and support farm-ers that are transitioning to organic and sustainable practices. The col-lection of wines includes: Climber White Wine, Climber Red Wine, Gary’s Improv Napa Valley Zin-fandel and Kit’s Killer Cab Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. If you want to feel good about your wine, er, better than you would normally, check them out. Plus, it’s extra cool to buy a bottle with a climber on the label. $14-35. www.clifbarfamilywinery.com

24 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

GEAR

1. Big Agnes Milner Mall Booties

Lightweight and compact for camping, these booties are part of Big Agnes’ Re-Routt Collec-tion of green gear. They’re made from all kinds of recycled goods: the shell, sole and rand material is 100% recycled, and they’re insu-lated with PrimaLoft Eco. $44.95. Bigagnes.com

2. Teko EcoMerino Ski Medium SocksThese are the fi rst offi cially cer-

tifi ed organic wool ski socks made of naturally wicking EcoMerino wool. A touch of Lycra throughout the sock and in the arch band means no bunching in your boot. $20.95. Tekosocks.com

3. Garmin Forerunner 405Meet the Forerunner 405. This GPS-enabled sport watch tracks your training, then wirelessly sends your data to your com-puter. Its sleek design features a touch bezel that lets you quickly scroll and select features on the run. $350. Garmin.com

4. New Balance Striker JacketAt a mere 380 grams, it’s tough to beat New Balance’s Storm Striker. All seams are sealed for protection from the elements, and it features a detachable hood. The 360-de-gree refl ectivity will help keep you safe on those dark winter runs. $130. Newbalance.com

5. Infographic T-ShirtsDress smarter. With the perfect mix of comfort, performance and versatility, Sport Science In-

fographic T-shirts are made from an engineered micro polyester yarn designed to look and feel like your favorite cotton shirt, but these tops are actually moisture-wicking, quick-drying, odor-re-sistant performance shirts. $25. Smarterperformance.com

6. GoPro Hero WideCapture more of the action with the GoPro Hero Wide. This com-pact, waterproof digital camera grabs 170-degree views, get-ting more of your surroundings in the shot. Add a 2G fl ash card and shoot 56 minutes of video or thousands of 5-megapixel still shots. A variety of mounts allow you to strap it to a helmet, clamp it to a bike or suction it to a kayak. $180. Goprocamera.com

7. Bota BagSkiers, snowboarders, hikers, bik-ers, backpackers, boaters and plenty of other outdoor enthusi-asts carry their favorite liquids in Bota Bags. The new Eco-Bota is constructed from 90% e-claimed materials, including yoga mats. The bladder is BPA-free, recyclable and does not retain taste or odor. Feel good knowing that 1% of sales benefi ts Leave No Trace. $8.99-11.99. Botaofboulder.com

8. Icebreaker 180 Chase ZipThis cool-looking top is a great base layer for running, cycling, fi tness and, of course, any snow sports. As the days get shorter and you train more after dark, the 360-degree refl ectivity will keep you visible. Made of a lightweight merino with a touch of Lycra. $94.99. Icebreaker.com

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26 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

CALENDAR

AVALANCHE AND BACKCOUNTRY SEMINARS AND CLINICS

Avalanche Forecast Center888-999-4019,www.avalanche.org

Feed the Habit: www.feedthehabit.com

On The Snow: www.onthesnow.com

Snow Forcast:www.snowforecast.com

Snowlink: www.snowlink.comSki Utah: www.skiutah.comUtah Avalanche Center:

www.utahavalanchecenter.comUtah Nordic Alliance:

www.utahnordic.comWasatch Mountain Club:

www.wasatchmountainclub.org

2.5.09— Avalanche Awareness Clinic: Hosted by the Brighton Ski Patrol and The Utah Avalanche Forecast Center. 5:00 p.m., 3rd fl oor of Alpine Rose Lodge, Brighton Resort, 801.532.4731, brightonresort.com

2.14.08— Basic Avalanche Transceiver Skills Clinic Teach the basics on avalanche safety and transceiver skills. 5:00 p.m., Alpine Room, Snowbird Resort, Free to attend, 801.933.4147, www.snowbird.com

2.21.09— Backcountry Skills Seminar: A course designed to help teach the basics of self-rescue, transceiver search techniques and traveling in avalanche terrain. Dress in snow appropriate clothing.10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., Snowbird Resort, 801.933.4147,www.snowbird.com

2.7, 14, 21, 28.09— Avalanche Level II Class: Provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision making skills. 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m, Wildfl ower Meadow, Snowbasin Resort. Price is $400 and includes a lift ticket. 801.620.1017, www.snowbasin.com

CLIMBINGONGOINGUtah Mountain Adventures (formely Exum

Utah) Intensive rock climbing clinics, climbs and summits, private guiding & instruction, mountaineering skills courses,

and Lone Peak climbing camps. www.utahmountainadventures.com

Paragon AdventureOrganized hiking, foot rappel, rock climb, zip line excursions.435-673-1709, www.paragonadventure.com

Rockreation —7,500 square feet of sculpted climbing terrain, toprope, lead and bouldering areas; Classes and Personal Coaching,Corporate Team Building, Birthday Parties, Day Passes available, 2074 E. 3900, 801. 278.7473, www.rockreation.com

CYCLING- ROAD AND MOUNTAIN BIKING

2.28.09— Zion Country Early Spring Century: 8:00 a.m., Bloomington Park, St. George, UT. 100, 70 and 50 mile races. Spina Bifi da Association of Utah (SBAU) has enlisted the servces of Bike 2 Bike to make this one of the premier cycling events for early spring. 801.677.0134, www.bike2bike.org

3.14-3.16.09— Skinny Tire Festival: The three rides of this festival highlight Moab’s different road riding opportunities. Channel the energy of riding through Moab’s canyon country by putting purpose behind your cycling. This event raises funds for cancer survivorship programs. 435-259-2698, www.skinnytireevents.com

FILMS, FESTIVAL CLINICS AND EVENTS

1.24.09— 20th Annual Chocolate Lovers Tour: Free chocolate treats all day at Solitude and chances to win prizes. Solitude Resort, www.skisolitude.com

1.30-1.31.09— Utah Special Olympics: Friday Noon – 4:00pm, Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Powder Mountain, www.powdermountain.com

2.14-16.09— Bryce Canyon Winter Festival: Ruby’s Inn, Hwy 63, Bryce Canyon City, UT, 1.800.468.8660, www.rubysinn.com

2.23-2.25.09— Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour: Kingsbury Hall, Salt Lake City, 801.581.7100, www.banffcentre.ca/mountainculture

3.3.09— The Banff Film Festival Radical Reels Tour: The best and most adrenaline-fi lled fi lms of the Banff Film Festival will be screened at Kingsbury Hall. 801.581.7100, www.utah.edu

3.9.09—Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour: Features the year’s best fi lms on mountain adventure and culture.7:00 p.m., Grand County High School Auditorium (608 South 400 East), Moab, UT, www.banffcentre.ca/mountainculture

OLYMPIC VENUES Utah Olympic Park, 435.658.4208,

www.olyparks.com. Utah olympic OVAL 5662 South Cougar Lane

(4800 W.) Kearns, UT. 84118. 801-963-7117,www.olyparks.com.

Utah Olympic Park2.9.09 - 2.14.09— FIBT Bobsled and Skeleton

World Cup, 435.658.4200, www.olyparks.com

2.17.09 - 2.22.09—USLA Luge Youth National Championships, 435.658.4200, vwww.olyparks.com

2.9- 2.14.09—FIBT Bobsled and Skeleton World Cup, 435.658.4200, www.olyparks.com

REI COMMUNITY EVENTSSANDY CITY—10600 SOUTH & 230 WEST

IN THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SOUTH TOWNE MALL PROPERTY. 801.501.0850, WWW.REI.COM

1.29.09— Ski/Snowboard Tune and Wax: 7:00 p.m., Join REI shop technicians this evening for some expert instruction on minor base repair, P-tex, edge sharpening and waxing. By learning to tune your own skis and snowboards, you can ensure that your equipment will perform at its peak.

SALT LAKE CITY—3285 EAST 3300 SOUTH 486-2100, WWW.REI.COM

1.27.09— Ski/Snowboard Tune and Wax: 7:00 p.m. Join REI shop master tech Jonathon Hulse this evening for some expert instruction on minor base repair, P-tex, edge sharpening and waxing.

JANUARY 2009-MARCH 2009

CALLING ALL EVENTS: Send us your written event information. We need the title, day, date, start time, location, format, entry fee and (mandatory) information phone number, email and website. It needs to be received by the 5th of the month (closest business day) prior to the publication.

winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 27

RESORT REPORT

Snowbasin Snow Divas WorkshopsThree and fi ve session workshops take place throughout January and February. Instruction by women for women. Available for alpine and snowboard learners of all skill levels. www.snowbasin.com

SundanceLadies Day Specialty ClinicsOffers ladies from beginner to advanced skill levels the opportunity to learn to ski or snowboard, or simply improve their skills. Price is $240 and includes a lift ticket. Clinics run on Tuesday and Thursdays in January and February.

Children’s ClinicMothers may enroll their children in a four-day program so their kids can learn to ski or board while Mom is out on the slopes. Price is $170 and includes a lift ticket. www.sundanceresort.com

Powder MountainSheSkis Women’s ClinicFor women taught by women. Women ages 18 and older of all skill levels are invited. Women instructors match participants with similar abilities together to spend a day on the slopes perfecting their skills. Clinic is offered on Tuesdays in January, February and March. Price is $250 for three-day session. www.powdermountain.com

BrightonTelemark WorkshopsWork on Nordic Downhill skills in this program that helps adult telemark skiers focus on the development of the telemark turn and adapting to various conditions and terrain. Suitable for beginner through advanced telemark skiers. Classes are held on Sundays in January and March. Price is $155 and includes lift tickets.

Senior WorkshopsTaught by seniors for seniors. www.brightonresort.com

Wolf CreekGet On Board This beginners only snowboard lesson package includes three group lessons, three rentals and an unlimited season pass! Price is $200 and classes are open to ages 3 and up. www.wolfcreekutah.com

SolitudeWomen’s Skate ClinicThese four-week clinics begin on Sundays in January and continue throughout the season. The sessions will vastly improve technique and help women meet other women who enjoy this aerobic activity. Price is $110 or $135 with equipment.

Classic Skate WorkshopTwo session workshop offered Sundays 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. all season long. Learn both the challenges and advantages of waxing that will help develop great technique. Price is $50 or $72 with equipment.

Intermediate Skate Workshop Two session workshop offered on Saturdays all season long. This co-ed clinic focuses on refi ning technique to prepare for races. Price is $50 or $72 with performance equipment. www.skisolitude.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8Utah’s Oldest and Most

Experienced Climbing Store801.484.8073 • 3265 E. 3300 So.

www.imeutah.com(100 YDS. WEST OF R.E.I.)

CLIMBING HARDWARE

MOUNTAINEERING OUTFITTING

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28 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

CALENDAR1.29.09— The Alta Experience-

KUED Documentary: 7:00 p.m. This free screening of the recently released documentary will be hosted by KUED producer Joe Prokop and sponsored by the Alta Historical Society & Alf Engen Ski Museum Foundation. This fast-paced glide down memory’s slope features interviews and interesting historical accounts.

RUNNING2.14.09— Moab’s Red Hot 50K

and 33K: Scenic and challenging trail running. 8:00 a.m., Gemini Bridges Trailhead (Hwy 191), Moab, UT, www.mas50.com/redhot

3.21.09— 34th Annual Canyonlands Half Marathon and Five Mile Run. 435.259.4525, www.moabhalfmarathon.org

SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING

UTAH SKI AREASAlta— Ticket Offi ce:

801-359-1078, Snow Report: 801-572-3939, www.alta.com.

Beaver Mountain— Ticket Offi ce: 435-753-0921, Snow report: 435-753-4821, www.skithebeav.com.

Brian Head— Ticket Offi ce: 435-677-2035, Snow Report: 435-677- 2035, press option 2 www.brianhead.com.

Brighton— Ticket Offi ce: 801-532-4731, Snow Report:

801-532-4731 www.skibrighton.com.

The Canyons—Ticket Offi ce: 435-649-5400, Snow Report: 435-615-3456, www.thecanyons.com.

Deer Valley— Ticket Offi ce: 435-649-1000, Snow Report: 435-649-2000, www.deervalley.com.

Park City— Ticket Offi ce: 1-800-222-PARK, Snow Report: 1-800-222-PARK www.parkcitymountain.com.

Powder Mountain— Ticket Offi ce: 801-745-3772, Snow Report: 801-745-3771. www.powdermountain.net.

Snowbasin— Ticket Offi ce: 801-620-1000, Snow Report: 801-620-1011 www.snowbasin.com

Snowbird— Ticket Offi ce: 801-742-2222, Snow Report: 801-933-2100 www.snowbird.com.

Solitude— Ticket Offi ce: 801-534-1400, Snow Report: 801-536-5777 www.skisolitude.com.

Sundance— Ticket Offi ce: 1-800-892-1600, Snow Report: www.sundance-utah.com.

EVENTS1.29-1.31.09— Visa Freestyle

International:Freestyle World Cup event with aerials, moguls and dual moguls and a ski halfpipe. 1:00- 4:00 p.m., Snow

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

winter 2009 sportsguidemag.com 29

CALENDARPark Base Area, Deer Valley Resort. All events open to the public. www.deervalley.com

1.30-1.31.09 —Soldier Hollow Super Olympic Qualifi er Cross Country Ski Races: USSA sanctioned qualifying events for US Junior National Championships and events for ages 13 and under. www.utahnordic.com

1.30-1.31.09— The North Face Snowboard Masters: Competitors look forward to the notoriously challenging Little Cottonwood Canyon terrain littered with chutes, cliff drops and legendary Utah powder,

Snowbird Resort. For ages 18 and up.www.snowbird.com

1.30.09—X96 Best Trick Contest: Ride for 60 minutes, the judges choose the best trick throughout the session. Top three tricks, plus best slam win! Skiers and snowboarders welcome. 7:00 p.m., Majestic Terrain Park, Brighton Resort, www.brightonresort.com

1.28.09, 2.4.09, 2.11.09— Wild Rose Fun Race: 5K Ski Race, 4:45 p.m., Mountain Dell Golf Course, UT, Free registration in the parking lot, Call Tim Metos at 801.533.8671 for information, www.utahnordic.com

1.24.09— Timberland Wasatch Citizens Series X-Country Ski Race: 10:00 a.m., Mountain Dell Golf Course, UT. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. Call Dave Hanscom at 435.649.3213 for information.

2.7.09— Wells Fargo Boulder Mountain Tour: Ski Race, 10:00 a.m. Galena Lodge, Ketchum, ID, www.bouldermountaintour.com

2.7, 2.14.09— Snowbasin’s Town Challenge: For locals. Create a team or just race against your friends. 801.620.1016, www.snowbasin.com

2.14.09— Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club’s Moose Chase: Nordic skiing marathon and half marathon, 10:00 a.m., Teton Village, Jackson Hole, WY, 307.733.6433, www.moosechase.com

2.21.09— Kids’ Mini Downhill: Children ages 4 to 14 compete in this annual classic. 11:00 a.m., Solitude Resort, www.skisolitude.com

2.26-3.1.09— Ski to Live Clinic: Kristen Ulmer, former World Class Professional Skier and Extreme Athlete, will host this clinic for all levels of skiers, snowboarders

and telemarkers who want to learn more about who they are as athletes, and as human beings, in a powerful, ground-breaking experience. The Canyons, 801.733.5003,www.thecanyons.com

3.7.09— Yellowstone Rendezvous Race: 9:15 a.m. 2K, 5K, 10K and 25K ski races, Rendezvous Ski Trails, West Yellowstone, MT, 406.646.7265, www.rendezvousrace.com

3.11-3.14.09— U.S. Freeskiing Nationals: For the 12th year in a row, Snowbird will host the U.S. Freeskiing Nationals. The world’s top extreme skiers will converge on the Bird, for hair-raising excitement of big air and aggressive skiing. Snowbird Resort, 801.933.2222, www.snowbird.com

3.28.09— The Canyons Pond Skimming Contest and Concert: The Canyons, 435.649.5400, www.thecanyons.com

3.29.09— Canis Lupis Challenge: A banked slalom race through a 1/2 mile-long natural halfpipe. The Canyons, 435-649-5400, www.thecanyons.com

SNOWSHOEING1.23, 2.6, 2.27.09— Night Owling: Call for

owls and learn about wildlife in winter. Price is $30 and includes a guide, snowshoe rental and use of the trails, 6:30 p.m., Cross Country Center, Sundance Resort, www.sundanceresort.com

2.7.09— Tubbs Romp to Stomp Out Breast Cancer Snowshoe Walk and Race: 9:00 a.m., Mountain Dell Golf Course, Salt Lake City, UT, www.tubbsromptostomp.com

TRIATHLON3.7.09— Blue Mountain Canyonlands Triathlon:

10:00 a.m., Dalton Springs Campground Blue Mountain, Monticello, UT,435.587.2271, www.monticelloutah.org/bmct/bmctinfo.html

THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 20099:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Ladies’ and Men’s Moguls

Qualifications – Deer Valley Resort

1:15 - 2:15 p.m. Moguls Finals – Deer Valley Resort

Approx. 2:30 p.m. Awards Immediately Following Competition

7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Michael Franti and Spearhead Concert Followed by Fireworks – Lower Main Street*

* Additional parking available at Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. Then please utilize the free City transportation to and from Main Street.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2009 1:00 - 4:45 p.m. Ladies’ and Men’s Aerial

Qualifications – Deer Valley Resort

6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Aerial Finals – Deer Valley Resort

Approx. 7:45 p.m. Awards and Fireworks Immediately Following Competition

deervalley.com • 800-424-DEER • parkcitymountain.com • 800-222-PARK

ALL EVENTS ARE FREETO THE PUBLIC!

Photos © Jonathan Selkowitz, Tom Kelly, Jen Desmond. Skiers:

Emily Cook, Jen Hudak, Shannon Bahrke,

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31, 20099:30 - 11:30 a.m. Ladies’ and Men’s Skier

Halfpipe Qualifications –Park City Mountain Resort

12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Skier Halfpipe Finals –Park City Mountain Resort

Approx. 1:45 p.m. Awards Immediately Following Competition

4:45 - 7:00 p.m. Ladies’ and Men’s Dual Moguls Qualifications –Deer Valley Resort

8:00 - 9:30 p.m. Dual Moguls Finals –Deer Valley Resort

Approx. 9:35 p.m. Awards and Fireworks Immediately FollowingCompetition

30 sportsguidemag.com winter 2009

LAST WORDTHE SKI-PAL

Okay, I’m not usually one for gadgets when it comes to skiing. I’m more often the person rolling their eyes as some kid is being led down the hill on a leash like a mindless puppy. Alright, so I am going to gulp down my pride and give the Ski-Pal an enthusiastic two thumbs up.

I took my three-year-old to Alta prepared for tears, frustration and the ultimate demise of my limited patience. Upon arrival I found that the rope tows weren’t running which meant if we were going to do any skiing it would be up the lift and down Crooked Mile. I tentatively tossed the Ski-Pal over one shoulder, picked up my son and rode up the lift. We got into position and I kid you not…we skied all the way to the bottom only stopping on the fl ats so I could step out of the Ski-Pal and pull him along (very easy with the Ski-Pal I might add). His fi rst day! No whining, no meltdowns, no aching back from hunching over and one very happy little guy.

While taking a break, I mentioned my trepidation of the Ski-Pal to Robyn Christianson, the Children’s Ski School Director at Alta, and she readily replied that they frequently use the hoops for teaching. I said I was

worried about children using them as a crutch and not wanting to ski on their own. She smiled and said the kids don’t want them after only a few runs.

So, what do you know?, three runs later my son let go of the Ski-Pal and started stopping and going on his own… with a little help of course. So, does it work? Absolutely, YES! Why not a hula hoop you ask? Because the Ski-Pal is sturdy, e r g o n o m i c a l l y comfy, adjustable and comes apart for easy storage. Buy one and share it with all your friends. I only wish I had this contraption when I was teaching my six-year-old how to ski. $79.99. www.ski-pal.com

Does It Work?

ROCES IDEA JUNIOR ADJUSTABLE SKI BOOT

With the current state of the economy the latest trend is spending as little money as possible. With that in mind we scoured the winter scene for hot, new trends that were cost effective, functional and totally up to date. Then along comes Roces Idea Junior Adjustable 6 in 1 Ski Boot.

Finally, a boot that can adjust several sizes to accommodate growing feet by adjusting

in length, width and height. The liner also adjusts to larger sizes for superior comfort. Roces has three boot sizes (S,

M, L) in cool different colors which each cover four sizes. The boots come in sizes to fi t a toddler size nine up to a youth size seven.

Level Nine Sports in Salt Lake City claims Roces are their best selling kids’ boot by a landslide. And why wouldn’t they be? Roces are good looking, well-made and most importantly, won’t burn a hole in your pocketbook. If you’re considering buying a new pair of boots for your child this winter check out this hot new trend. Because if you’ve been renting or buying new pairs each season, these are sure to save you money. A pair should last about three seasons (depending on your child) and won’t disappoint. To buy Roces locally, visit Level Nine Sports where Roces Idea boots are $94 and a knowledgeable sales staff is available to answer any questions. MSRP $123-130. www.roces-snow.com

What’s Hot?

levelninesports.com

Bring in this ad for $10 off any Roces ski boots!

Visit us online at www.levelninesports.com

or visit our SLC store at 2815 S. Highland Drive

801-973-7350

Get your Roces adjustable kids ski boots, along with the

rest of your ski and snow-board gear at the best prices

in the nation!All sizes and colors available!

you don’t kick step your way along the wind-blown ridge between Demoisy Peak and Needles because it’s easy. you do it because when you make that first, waist-deep arc in the bowl below you, you own something that no one can ever take away. it’s your turn.

www.snowbasin.coma sun valley resort

CHOOSE FROM OVER50 DIFFERENT SPORTS

June 3 - 21, 2009Registration is now open for all sports

so pick your individual or team sport and register on-line now at:

UtahSummerGames.orgPresented in part by:

Intermountain Healthcare, Cedar City, Brian Head Tourism, Cedar City, Inc., Southern Utah University,

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