The Canadian Cancer Society is rallying ski enthusiasts to the slopes to help raise funds to fight cancer.
“Slopes for Hope” is the society’s campaign to encourage locals to participate in an all day ski-a-thon at Red Mountain Resort on Saturday.
“People sign up either as individuals or teams and the goal is to ski the length of Mt. Everest at your local ski resort,” said Slopes coordinator Tara Kowalchuck.
Now skiing close to 30,000 feet may seem a daunting task, but it actually isn’t so bad, says Kowalchuck.
“That’s why we have a team option, so you sign up, up to four people and you can split the distance between you.”
Translated into Motherlode runs on Red Mountain, the distance equates to roughly 11 runs down the hill for an individual or a mere three a piece for a team of four.
The fundraiser was a big success in Kimberley last year, so taking it on the road to Red seemed like a good idea. While a lack of skiers isn’t the problem, getting people to register for the event has been difficult.
“The response has been pretty good,” says Kowalchuck.
“People seem to think it’s a great idea. We still need some more people to sign up though, our participation numbers aren’t quite where we would like them to be.”
A further incentive was offered up by Red Mountain, giving free lift tickets for those who raise $130 in pledges or more.
“I think it’s going to be a really good day, and I hope we get a lot of people to come out and be part of this brand new ski event.”
There will be music and activities at the base throughout the day, and once the lifts close, participants can cozy up in Rafters where entertainment and pizza will be served, as well as prizes for biggest contributors.
Funds raised from the event go to the Canadian Cancer Society and support excellence in research, cancer prevention initiatives, and support programs such as Cancer Information Service, Cancer Connection, Lodges, and Camp Goodtimes for children with cancer and their families.
To support a participant or to register to ride go to slopeforhopes.ca/redmountain or call 364-0403 for more information.