PINKHAM NOTCH, New Hampshire ??” On Monday, March 20th, 2006, Wildcat Mountain is hosting a toboggan challenge for mountain ski patrollers from across New England.

This is a friendly competition where three person ski patrol teams will test their toboggan handling skills by running a loaded toboggan straight down “the Gizzard” at Wildcat Mountain. This is the term used by Wildcat’s patrol for the trails running down the center of the mountain, consisting of the Top Cat, Starr Line and Panther. This is some of Wildcat’s steepest and gnarliest terrain. Participants should expect rocks, bumps, snowmaking whales, and flats. Wildcat patrol will set up the course in three stages with a few “check” gates to ensure safe travel. Each team member must handle the toboggan through one stage. The team with the fastest time from summit to base, a descent of over 2,100 vertical feet, wins. The course location is subject to change based on snow conditions and cover.

High quality prizes will be awarded to the top three teams: First Place – Each team member wins a pair of skis donated by Atomic, Soloman, and K2; Second Place – Each team member wins a Patagonia Jacket; Third Place: Each team members wins a Fleece Vest. In addition, the apr??s ski party will feature a raffle with prizes ranging from Gift Certificates from medical supply companies to jackets, vests and ski bags. Demo gear will also be available from Atomic, Joe Jones Ski and Sport, and Nevado Mountain Adventures. The apr??s ski party and awards will take place in Wildcat’s Pub, including live music, refreshments, and give-aways.

Registration begins at 8:30am in the Main Base Lodge at Wildcat Mountain, and the first team runs at 10:30am, after briefing. The Entry fee is $100.00 per team and includes lift tickets for team members, goodie bags with googles, T-Shirt, snack bars, and other fun items. Each team must bring its own toboggan. Letters will be honored for other mountain employees in accordance with existing or pre-arranged reciprocal ski privilege policies. For more information about this event, contact Alexa Bernotavicz, Wildcat Mountain Operations Director, [email]alexab@skiwildcat.com[/email], or call 603-466-3326 X251.

This Ski Patrol Toboggan Challenge is being sponsored by SOLO Wilderness Medicine, Memorial Hospital, and the National Ski Patrol.