Fast, faster, fastest: party with the racers
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The festivities will begin with the introduction of the top 10-rated downhill racers, including Stephan Eberharter (Austria), Fritz Strobl (Austria), Kjetil Andre Ammodt (Norway), Hannes Trinkl (Austria), Franco Cavegn (Switzerland), Kurt Sulzenbacher (Italy), Michael Walchhofer (Austria) Amborsi Hoffmann (Switzerland), Lasse Kjus (Norway) and Josef Strobl (Austria). Each racer will draw a raffle ticket out of the pile, winning a prize for someone in the crowd. Giveaways include a vacation in Las Vegas, airline tickets, skis, jackets and World Cup schwag.
The U.S. Ski Team will also be there, signing autographs and hobnobbing with race supporters.
“It’s going to be really fun,” said Cara Herron of the Vail Valley Foundation. “It’s a great opportunity to have a party outside, which isn’t something we get too much at this time of year. And after having a year off between World Cup races in Beaver Creek, there’s a lot of energy and excitement about the event. Besides, Beaver Creek Village is always a great place to have a party.”
To help the masses get amped up, the Snow Monsters will be bouncing around. The official mascots for the U.S. Ski Team include Beaver Boarder, Powder Pig and Snow Tiger. They especially like to interact with the kids. They’ll also be part of the pre-race entertainment on Saturday and Sunday.
Following the raffle, Boulder-based Gordo will take the stage. Their multi-ethnic groove includes hints of African, Latin and Middle Eastern music with funk and jazz undertones. They were chosen for their dance music, which will help folks stay warm, as will the public concessions.
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“It’s definitely hustle and bustle here,” said Herron, speaking from the race registration. “You have people coming from all different countries. The village is bustling. It’s definitely high energy, so that brings a lot of flavor and flair. With exceptional early-season conditions, they’re having a lot of fun.”
The World Cup party begins at 6 p.m. in between Village Hall and the ice rink in Beaver Creek. It’s free, and open to the public.
Wren Wertin can be reached via e-mail at wrenw@vaildaily.com or phone at 949-0555 ext. 618.
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