Speed skiing is underway at Sun Peaks.
Image Credit: Twitter
March 04, 2016 - 5:00 PM
SUN PEAKS - This week the world's fastest non-motorized sport hits the slopes as the 27th annual Velocity Challenge and 14th annual FIS World Cup of Speed Skiing returns to Sun Peaks.
The event features local ace Joss Advocaat who is regarded as one of the top Speed Skiing talents in Canada. Advocaat is joined at the top with several international superstars such as the current British DH record holder, Jan Farrell and the fastest non-motorized human on the planet, Simone Origone. Origone is a 3-time World Record holder and 5-time World Champion.
The long standing event has become a staple within the mountain community.
"We are excited to welcome back the Velocity Challenge and the FIS Speed Skiing World Cup to Sun Peaks," said Aidan Kelly, Director of Sales and Marketing, Sun Peaks Resort. "It's such a thrilling event to witness live, and we are continually impressed by the local support the event receives year after year."
The World Cup action kicked off yesterday on the blistering fast Headwalls Speed Ski Track. Separated by less than half a second, the fastest times on the day belonged to the Origone brothers (Simone and Ivan) with a top speed of 146.43 km/h and 146.28 km/h respectively, with Simone claiming the slight advantage. However, local hero Joss Advocaat was in hot pursuit with a time of 144.67 km/h putting him in fourth place.
The racer's are back in action today as they continue their pursuit of a World Cup podium finish, on one of the most feared courses in the World Cup circuit. On Saturday, the FIS race results will be finalized and the Velocity Challenge will commence. The Velocity Challenge will give racers a shot at local glory as they try to break the course record of 178.22 km/h on a shortened timing trap. The long-standing record was set by Sun Peaks local Kenny Dale back in 2002.
Spectators are encouraged to come check out the action, tickets are available for $10 from Guest Services. The spectator pass will take guests to the top of the Sun Burst chairlift, where there are viewing areas from the Sunburst Lodge or from off-load area for the Elevation chair.
Please visit www.velocitychallenge.com for more information.
Speed Ski Run Down Headwalls in Sun Peaks
Ever wondered what it's like to ski down Headwalls at over 160 km/h? Competitors in the FIS Speed Ski World Cup and Velocity challenge will be doing just that over the next 4 days as they look to start off the 2016 Speed Skiing season with a win. Head up Sunburst or Crystal to check out the action and cheer them on! Video from FIS Speed ski featuring skier Jan Farrell.TSN CBC Sports
Posted by Sun Peaks Resort on Wednesday, March 2, 2016
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