Black Diamond Set for the Return of the Big LePowSki in SLC

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing, skiing and backcountry gear, along with Arc’teryx, will host the second annual “Big LePowSki” ski extravaganza – all about the down – from February 25-27.

“The LePowSki appeals to all levels of snowriders as it offers them the chance to receive instruction from some of the most talented freeride athletes in the sport. In addition to a full array of instructional workshops geared to the modern freerider, ski films and music all add to the experience of the Big LePowSki weekend,” comments Colleen Nipkow, Black Diamond’s Big LePowSki organizer.

The event kicks off Thursday night, February 25, with the Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival at the State Room (638 S State Street). 7pm Doors/8pm show; must be 21 years or older to attend. $10 per person, all proceeds to support WWA. Tickets available at the Black Diamond store (cash/check only), or online http://www.thestateroomslc.com. On Friday, February 26, participants are encouraged to meet the athletes and register for clinics from 6-8pm at the Black Diamond Store (2092 E. 3900 South).

Athletes in attendance include: Cody Barnhill, Jenn Berg, Julian Carr, Jacqui Edgerly, Zack Giffin, Kim Havell, Noah Howell, Andy Jacobsen, Lynn Kennen, Andrew McLean, Jonaven Moore, Adam Moszynski, Laura Ogden, Jamey Parks, Kasha Rigby, Jake Sakson, Forrest Shearer, Mark Welgos and more. Athlete ski clinics will take place on Saturday from 9am-3pm at Brighton Resort. Registration will begin at 8am. $75 includes lift ticket, morning and afternoon clinics, plus lunch. Brighton season pass holders pay $40. Demos from Arc’Teryx and Black Diamond will include some of Fall 2010’s new line including Black Diamond’s Efficient Series featuring lightweight skis/AT boots. The weekend wraps up with the Big LePowSki/Salt Lake Shoot Out Party in support of the Billy Poole Fund from 7pm-10pm Saturday night at Club Elevate (149 W 200 South). A silent auction to benefit the Billy Poole Fund, live music by Herban Empire, awards for the Ski Salt Lake Shootout are all included in the $10 admission price. All proceeds will be donated to the Billy Poole Fund.

Supporting sponsors include Backcountry.com, Brighton Resort, Discrete Headwear, Fritschi Diamir, Pieps, Polartec and Winter Wildlands Alliance. Freeskier and Snowboard Magazine are the official media sponsors. To register for the “Big LePowSki” event, go to http://www.ready2climb.com/wePages/content/The_BigLePowSki_Brighton/frame.php?lang=E.