EAST BURKE, Vermont ??” With the arrival of Spring just around the corner, Burke Mountain is gearing up for the return of its annual Pond Skimming Contest??”always the most popular and raucous event of the ski season. Sponsored by Trout River Brewing, this rite of spring will be held Saturday, March 25th, at the foot of the upper mountain’s Warren’s Way Trail.

The theme for this year’s edition is Halloween, and the idea remains simple: dress in the most wild outfit you’ve got, strap on some old skis or a snowboard, point yourself down hill, and try your luck at crossing the man-made pond. Daring contestants compete for a chance to win prizes and glory??”with the King and Queen of Pond Skimming taking home season’s passes for next winter. For the less buoyant, other awards will be given for Best Costumes, Best Exit, Biggest Splash, and Best Wet Look.

Each year, over 50 skiers and riders attempt to cross the pond, and while it’s certainly fun to try, it’s just as entertaining to watch. The loud and lively crowd, backed by music from Magic 97.7, make this one of Burke Mountain’s best parties. And as always, the Trout River Beer tent and BBQ will be located in perfect view of the pond so spectators won’t have to miss a thing.

The competition is open to all skiers and riders, ages 18 and up. Registration will be held in the Mid-Burke Lodge on the morning of the event, from 11:00am to noon, with the competition beginning at 1pm and an awards ceremony to follow at 3:30pm. Afterward, the Bear Den Lounge at Mid-Burke will host an apr??s-ski party with Trout River.

For more information on the Pond Skimming contest or other upcoming events at Burke Mountain, go to www.skiburke.com, or contact Hannah Collins at 802-626-7395.