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Hit the slopes for cancer research

Winter sports enthusiasts are getting ready to strap into their skis and snowboards to raise money for a noble cause.

Winter sports enthusiasts are getting ready to strap into their skis and snowboards to raise money for a noble cause.

On Sunday, participants in the third annual Slopes for Hope, hosted by the Canadian Cancer Society in Trail, will be bombing the runs at Red Mountain in an attempt to ski the equivalent of the height of the highest mountain in the world – Mount Everest – all while donating time and money to cancer research.

The Nepalese peak reaches nearly 9,000 metres above sea-level, or 29,029 feet, and skiers will have all day on Feb. 22 to hit the slopes as many times as they can to ski the same distance.

For the first time, cross-country skiers can also venture out on the trails at Black Jack Ski Club to fundraise.

The day-long event will include a barbecue for skiers who work up an appetite for burgers and prize draws where participants can win a high-end kayak, a luggage set, gift certificates to local businesses or winter wear from Dakine, Helly Hansen and Burton.

Allison McCarthy from the Trail office of the Canadian Cancer Society says the event is a chance to have a fun day on the slopes while also raising money for those who are suffering from cancer.

“Skiing for the day is always fun, but now people can do it for a good cause,” she said, adding that this year, the organization has set a high bar to reach.

“It is our third annual event and we are hoping to raise $20,000.”

McCarthy says the event already has around 30 people signed up on 10 teams, but there is still a chance for interested skiers, cross country and downhill, to do their part.

Visit slopesforhope.ca for more information, to sign up, or to make a pledge to an existing team.

Skiers can also sign up the day of the event, Feb. 22, before 8 a.m. at Red Mountain and Black Jack Ski Club.