NEWRY and CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine — The old saying “love is in the air” may take on a new meaning thanks in part to the fresh Valentine’s Day event Sunday River and Sugarloaf are throwing during Portland, Maine’s nine day WinteRush. Rightfully titled the Downtown Showdown, this urban rail jam takes place on February 14th in Portland’s Monument Square starting at 4 p.m. The Downtown Showdown competition is invitation-only and will feature 16 skiers and 16 riders from industry teams, shops and academies.

“The City of Portland is thrilled to have Sunday River and Sugarloaf participating in WinteRush,” said City of Portland Mayor Jill Duson. “The Downtown Showdown is the perfect way to bring pieces of Maine’s favorite mountains to the city using this exciting urban rail jam. The Downtown Showdown will certainly heat up what we expect to be, Maine’s coolest outdoor festival.”

For the Downtown Showdown, innovation is key for not just the athletes competing, but also for Sunday River and Sugarloaf. So much so, that both resorts are teaming up to build a two-story starting ramp leading into a 30-foot long, three rail staircase complete with an overturned lobster boat hull as the park’s sliding surface finish area. Best skier and best rider trick are scheduled to walk away with cash prizes; total amount TBD.

The Downtown Showdown starts with skiers and riders dueling it out for bragging rights and prizes, and keeps the party going with DJs, MCs, lights and more.

The Downtown Showdown schedule includes:

4-5 p.m. ??“ Warm Up
5-6 p.m. ??“ Open Jam
6-7 p.m. ??“ Finals (featuring the last eight skiers and eight riders standing)

For more information on Sunday River and Sugarloaf’s Downtown Showdown, visit www.thedowntownshowdown.com.