FasterSkier

Author: Stowe Derby

  • Stowe Derby Postponed to Sunday, March 20th

    We have danced, we have prayed, we have kept our hopes up. Sadly the winter has not collaborated, and cross country ski conditions, especially along the Stowe Rec Path have been marginal at best. With more rain in the forecast for this week, organizers have come to an agreement that it was unsafe to run the race until we get more snow. The Stowe Derby is getting a second chance, and it is rescheduled to Sunday, March 20th, 2016.
    Few remember such a challenging snowless winter, but many also remember the numerous times that the Derby course had to be altered over its legendary 70 years of existence. History tells us that the event was only cancelled two times over all those decades; once in the heat of WWII, the other time for lack of snow at a time when snowmaking and grooming capabilities were nowhere near what they are today. Many times, the course had to be altered due to weather, construction, or other uncontrollable reasons.
    At this point, some 325 cross-country ski racers, and fat bike enthusiasts are signed up to compete in this year’s edition of the legendary Stowe Derby. Last year, also a record year for snowfalls, close to 800 people took the start. Organizers realize that the lack of snow has contributed to low registration levels, and hope that March will offer better snow conditions, and generate more interest and a larger field of skiers and fat bikers.
    Racers can register online registration until March 17th, at noon. People already signed up but unable to race because of a conflict will be offered to apply this year’s registration to the 2017 race. Contact Pascale Savard at stowederby@gmail.com if you would like to choose this option.
    Sincere thanks to everyone for the support and for understanding the dilemma we are facing. We hope to see you all on March 20th, skiing and fat biking in the Stowe Derby. Follow the Stowe Derby on Facebook and if you are registered to race, check your inbox for more updates in the coming days.
    The Stowe Derby is presented by SkiRack, Louis Garneau, Ben & Jerry’s, Dr. Danger Coffee, Concept2, Faster Skier, Larabar, Boxed Water, Vermont Smoke and Cure, Skida, Seventh Generation, Powershift, Rossignol, Vermont Ski and Sports, The Stowe Reporter, and Darn Tough Vermont.

  • The Stowe Derby is Coming to Town for a 71st Edition

    On Sunday, February 28th, 2016, the quaint little town of Stowe, Vermont, will welcome the 71st edition of the Stowe Derby, the most anticipated winter event of the year, and perennial favorite hosted by the Mt. Mansfield Ski Club.
    Annually, on the last Sunday of February, some 800 participants flock to Stowe with friends and family to be a part of the Stowe Derby, an event that literally monopolizes the town, from the top of Mt. Mansfield all the the way to the Community Church located at the heart of the village.
    They come to ski the 6km short cross country ski course for kids and families, the challenging 20km freestyle or classic ski race from the top of Mt. Mansfield, or the 14km unique Fat Bike race. Experts can also race in the Derby Meister, the combination of the two long course ski races, or the Fat Meister, the combination of the Freestyle ski race, and the Fat Bike race.
    The legendary race attracts skiers and adventure seekers from near and far. From weekend warriors to NCAA champions, to high school teams and old reminiscing veterans, the Stowe Derby holds a very special place in the heart of all who have participated in the past, and continues to captivate hundreds today. Some come for the glory, most come for the fun of skiing or riding in this most unique event.
    The first edition of this famous and most unique downhill cross country ski race originated in 1945 when an alpine skier named Sepp Ruschp, and his friend Erling Strom, a nordic skier, challenged each other to race from the top of Mt. Mansfield to the village of Stowe, on a single pair of skis. At a time when ski runs were not quite as perfectly groomed as they are today, Sepp Ruschp, the alpine skier won the challenge and was crowned the best overall skier that year. Today, the challenge remains the same, but nearly all ski participants race on Nordic skis which are lighter and better suited for the course.
    Registrations are coming in strong and organizers are expecting the Fat Bike Derby, limited to 100 racers, to soon reach full capacity again this year. Sign up today for the best prices and start time in all races.
    For more information, or to sign up for the Stowe Derby, visit www.stowederby.com, and follow us on Facebook. Group rates are available for teams. Contact Pascale Savard at stowederby@gmail.com with questions.

  • 70th Annual Stowe Derby, the Legendary Downhill Cross-Country Ski Race, Set for Sunday, February 22

    Stowe Derby

    The legendary Stowe Derby, a unique downhill cross-country ski race, will celebrate its 70th anniversary on Sunday, February 22 in Stowe, Vermont. Skiers from across North America race for the prestige of participating in and possibly winning this historic event, while recreational skiers and spectators enjoy a day of winter sports revelry. New this year, skiers schussing down Mt. Mansfield and into Stowe Village will be followed by fatbike riders pedalling towards victory.

    “Seventy years in and this event continues to be something people look forward to all year long,” said event organizer Pascale Savard. “It’s the ultimate test of a skier’s prowess by combining both alpine and cross-country disciplines. But even if you’re not a competitor, there’s plenty of fun to be had. With the addition of fatbikes and other attractions, we’re expecting a record turnout of winter enthusiasts.”

    Skiers can select between freestyle or classic divisions, and experts have the option to do both back-to-back in the Derby Meister. The full course descends over 2,600 vertical feet and takes between 45 minutes to several hours to finish, depending on ability. The final slog along the Stowe Rec path provides the perfect spot for spectators to enjoy the action while hooting and hollering encouragement.

    Families with children ages 6 and up can enjoy the short 5km course along the Stowe Rec Path. Fatbike riders will roll over a 14 km course beginning at the bottom of Toll Road. All categories are filling up quickly so athletes are encouraged to register early. Online registration for the Stowe Derby is open, and racers who have competed in the past two years’ races will get seeded by signing up before February 19. All other entrants are entered in order of entry submission.

    Other attractions include music, a photo booth, food and beverages and a souvenir medal for all competitors. The awards celebration and after party will be held at Sushi Yoshi with a beer tent featuring Long Trail ales and souvenir beer mugs. Fatbike demos will also be available at the after party.

    Visit www.stowederby.com for more information and like the Facebook page for updates.

    The Stowe Derby is presented by Concept 2, Ski Rack, Onion River Sports, Faster Skier, MTBVT, and Darn Tough Vermont.

     

  • Stowe Derby XC Ski Race Introduces New Fatbike Competitor Class

    For the 70th edition of the Stowe Derby an unprecedented class of competitor will be introduced. In addition to classic nordic skiing and skate ski categories a new fatbike class will be added for winter cycling competitors and enthusiasts.

    The Mt. Mansfield Ski Club is proud to partner up with Mountain Bike Vermont to present the fatbike portion of the Stowe Derby. The race will include 100 fatbike riders competing in a parallel format to the traditional Derby race model. Once all ski competitors have completed the 4 mile descent down the Toll Road, cycling participants will follow suit, leaving from a non-lift accessed start gate situated on the upper trails of the Stowe Mountain Resort Touring Center. Departing from the shoulder of Mount Mansfield, competitors descend 650 vertical feet over the 14km of the remaining ski racecourse. Like the skiers before them, fatbike racers will navigate through Stowe’s hillside terrain followed by a sprint down the scenic rec path before crossing the finish in front of the jeering fans in the center of Stowe Village.

    “We thought it fitting to add a new tradition on the Derby’s 70th Birthday,” says Pascale Savard, 15 year lead organiser of the event presented by the Mount Mansfield Ski Club. “By introducing a fatbike competitor class we bring new life and excitement to the event, and many regular competitors intend to compete in both.”

    With the addition of cycling class the Derby will now offer a “Fat-Meister” category. Ski racers from the freestyle race will also be able to compete as cyclists. Combined times will be added and the fastest skiing/rider competitor will take away the first ever “Fat-Meister” crown.

    “Why add fatbiking?” Co-organiser Ryan Thibault of Mountain Bike Vermont asks. “Fatbiking is the fastest growing segment of the mountain bike industry and has received massive publicity over the past couple years in New England and Quebec. The technology has been proven and tons of folks have bought into the sport. They want a forum to show what they can do. What better outlet than a 70 year old ski race that’s had a reputation for being outside the box since it’s inception!”

    The Stowe Derby is excited to make fatbiking the newest tradition to the oldest downhill cross-country race in the country.

     

    The race is on Sunday, February 22, 2015.

     

    Registration for all races open on October 15th.

     

    For more info regarding the Derby and its newest competitor class visit www.stowederby.com

    Or email stowederby@teammmsc.org.

     

    For more info on the fatbiking community, trails and events in Vermont visit www.mtbvt.com or email ryan@mtbvt.com.

  • Stowe Derby XC Ski Race Introduces New Fatbike Competitor Class

    For the 70th edition of the Stowe Derby an unprecedented class of competitor will be introduced. In addition to classic nordic skiing and skate ski categories a new fatbike class will be added for winter cycling competitors and enthusiasts.

    The Mt. Mansfield Ski Club is proud to partner up with Mountain Bike Vermont to present the fatbike portion of the Stowe Derby. The race will include 100 fatbike riders competing in a parallel format to the traditional Derby race model. Once all ski competitors have completed the 4 mile descent down the Toll Road, cycling participants will follow suit, leaving from a non-lift accessed start gate situated on the upper trails of the Stowe Mountain Resort Touring Center. Departing from the shoulder of Mount Mansfield, competitors descend 650 vertical feet over the 14km of the remaining ski racecourse. Like the skiers before them, fatbike racers will navigate through Stowe’s hillside terrain followed by a sprint down the scenic rec path before crossing the finish in front of the jeering fans in the center of Stowe Village.

    “We thought it fitting to add a new tradition on the Derby’s 70th Birthday,” says Pascale Savard, 15 year lead organiser of the event presented by the Mount Mansfield Ski Club. “By introducing a fatbike competitor class we bring new life and excitement to the event, and many regular competitors intend to compete in both.”

    With the addition of cycling class the Derby will now offer a “Fat-Meister” category. Ski racers from the freestyle race will also be able to compete as cyclists. Combined times will be added and the fastest skiing/rider competitor will take away the first ever “Fat-Meister” crown.

    “Why add fatbiking?” Co-organiser Ryan Thibault of Mountain Bike Vermont asks. “Fatbiking is the fastest growing segment of the mountain bike industry and has received massive publicity over the past couple years in New England and Quebec. The technology has been proven and tons of folks have bought into the sport. They want a forum to show what they can do. What better outlet than a 70 year old ski race that’s had a reputation for being outside the box since it’s inception!”

    The Stowe Derby is excited to make fatbiking the newest tradition to the oldest downhill cross-country race in the country.

     

    The race is on Sunday, February 22, 2015.

    Registration for all races opened on October 15th.

     

    For more info regarding the Derby and its newest competitor class visit www.stowederby.com

    Or email stowederby@teammmsc.org.

     

    For more info on the fatbiking community, trails and events in Vermont visit www.mtbvt.com

    or email ryan@mtbvt.com.

  • 68th Annual Stowe Derby Ski Race Set for Feb. 24

    Stowe Derby logo

    68th Annual Stowe Derby Ski Race

    Sunday, February 24, 2013

    – Skiers Compete in Historic Race for the Fun and Prestige – 

    STOWE, Vt. – February 12, 2013 – The oldest downhill cross-country ski race in North America returns to Stowe on Sunday, February 24, 2013 for the 68th consecutive year. The Stowe Derby began as a dual between two competitive skiers in 1945 and now draws hundreds of international competitors to the slopes of Mount Mansfield annually. This truly unique skiing showdown is open to all types of skiers and brings out the best in winter sport revelry.

    The Stowe Derby combines both Alpine and Nordic (cross-county) aspects of skiing over a course stretching 12.5 miles (20.1 km) and descending approximately 2,600 feet (792 m), making it an unforgiving, all-around test of skiing aptitude. North America’s fastest cross-country skiers will navigate tight switchbacks on Stowe’s Toll Road and sprint through town along the Stowe Rec. Path in an effort to set a record time. But, in the spirit of the Derby, contestants also don Alpine skis, splitboards and even costumes to enjoy completing the legendary course.

    “Competitors and spectators come to the Derby for the history and the tradition, the unique and thrilling challenge, and for the fun of it – there’s nothing else like it,” said race organizer Pascale Savard. “We’re expecting a great event this year with a big turnout. There’s never a dull moment at the Derby.”

    Skiers can select between freestyle or classic divisions, and experts can do both courses in the Derby Meister. Teams of four can enter the EverBank Team Challenge for a chance at more prizes. Families with children ages 6 and up will enjoy the short course (5 km) along the Stowe Rec Path.

    Online registration is open until Friday, February 22, 2013 at 12:00 p.m. In-person registration is available during early bib pick up at the Stowe Elementary School on Saturday, February 23 from 3-5 p.m. Payment in cash or check only. Visit www.stowederby.com or contact Pascale Savard at stowederby@teammmsc.org for more information. Like the Stowe Derby Facebook page for updates.

    The Stowe Derby is presented by Concept 2 of Morrisville, Vermont.

  • Mt. Mansfield’s Stowe Derby: A 2013 Ski Challenge for All

    Stowe Derby – a 2013 Ski Challenge for you, you and YOU!

    Stowe Derby logo

    Make 2013 the year when you take on the Stowe Derby challenge! Surely, you can ski down the 4 mile Auto Toll Road in your sleep but… can you do it on a pair of cross-country skis AND avoid all potential “hazards,” i.e. other skiers and perhaps a bumpy patch or two along the way? After negotiating a couple of air pins you most certainly never noticed before, the rest of the course is a piece of cake, especially for most of us experienced skiers: a few ups and downs in the Stowe Cross Country Center and Trapp Family Nordic Center before skiing the flat Stowe Rec Path all the way to town.

    Choose to ski the 20km course in the skate or the classic division, or be creative… split snowboards, tele gear, even alpine ski gear is an option – although not recommended unless you consider yourself as fit and adventurous as our dear friend George Tormey who mastered the challenge more than once back in the day. If you prefer, simply join the kids in the 6km short course and avoid the descent altogether.

    Stowe Derby

    The Derby is on Sunday, February 24th, 2013 and this will be the 68th edition of the Mt. Mansfield Ski and Snowboard’s only Nordic production. The legendary race attracts hundreds annually and originated from a personal challenge between two good friends and amazing skiers – Austrian, Sepp Ruschp who was hired to come to America and head the new ski school at Stowe and Erling Strom, world famous mountaineer from Norway. The challenge was the same as it is today – to race from the top of Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak to the historic village of Stowe… on ONE pair of skis – the ultimate test of a skiers ability. Ruschp was the winner of the first Stowe Derby, will you be the winner in 2013?

    Prices go up February 8, so sign up soon. Also consider entering the EverBank Challenge by forming your team of four. Race for bragging right, for fun, for the challenge! Hope to see you in Stowe on Sunday, February 24th.

    For more information or to sign up online visit: http://www.stowederby.com/home. Contact Pascale Savard at stowederby@teammmsc.org for further questions. Also follow us on Facebook for up-to-date information as we get closer to Derby Day!

    Stowe Derby

  • 68th Annual Stowe Derby Cross Country Ski Race Challenges Skiers to Make History on February 24

    68th Annual Stowe Derby Cross Country Ski Race Challenges Skiers to Make History on February 24

    – The oldest downhill cross-country ski race in North America –

    Stowe, Vermont – The honor, bragging rights and camaraderie of competing in the oldest downhill cross-country ski race in North America keep competitors coming back each year to Stowe, Vermont. The historic New England ski town at the base of Mount Mansfield will once again draw the best skiers from far and wide for the 68th edition of the Stowe Derby on Sunday, February 24, 2013. This downhill and cross-country combined ski race brings out competitive and recreational skiers alike, lured by the unique and challenging course, energetic crowds and the prestige of taking a top finish in this historic, multi-faceted test of a skiers’ skill and fitness.

    “An influx of early registrations has us believing the 68th Stowe Derby could be one of the most highly contested yet,” said event organizer Pascale Savard. “There’s the prestige of participating in one of North America’s longest running ski races, and there’s also the fun of being a part of skiing history. The race always brings together the ski community, from elite athletes to spectators lining the course, all eager to see who can out-ski the pack.”

    Participants ski a total of 20km of challenging terrain over the course of the race, starting with the exhilarating 4-mile descent down the curvy Mt. Mansfield Toll Road. Alpine skiers and stronger XC downhillers always shine in this portion of the race, but Nordies typically make a quick comeback. Once the course connects to Stowe Mountain Resort’s and Trapp Family Lodge’s cross country ski trails, sound XC ski technique and perhaps a quick touch up on wax will change the outcome of the race – this is where battle truly begins! Finally, at the Stowe Recreation Path, crowds cheer on racers to give it their all for the final 5 miles leading to the finish in Stowe village. The course has a total vertical drop of over 2,600 feet taking between 45 minutes to several hours to finish. One pair of skis, heavy legs, burning lungs and a mix of skiing backgrounds makes for an exciting and contentious race.

    The Stowe Derby started in 1945 as a personal challenge between two amazing skiers – Austrian Sepp Ruschp, an alpine skier who was hired to come to America and head the new ski school at Stowe, and Erling Strom, a Nordic skier and world famous mountaineer from Norway. The challenge was the same as it is today: to race from the top of Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, to the town of Stowe, on one pair of skis. Ruschp was the winner of the first Stowe Derby – and a tradition was born. Today, the race attracts hundreds of competitors, ranging from NCAA Champions to Masters competitors, to High School team racers and recreational skiers of all ages.

    Skiers can select between freestyle or classic divisions, and experts have the option to do both back-to-back in the Derby Meister. Families with children ages 6 and up can enjoy the short 5km course along the Stowe Rec Path. The EverBank Team Challenge has been popular with groups of friends forming teams of four to battle it out for great prizes awarded after the race.

    Online registration for the Stowe Derby is open, and racers who have competed in the past two years’ races will get seeded by signing up before February 19th. All other entrants are entered in order of entry submission. Visit www.stowederby.com or contact Pascale Savard at stowederby@teammmsc.org for more information and like the Facebook page for updates.

    The Stowe Derby is presented by Concept 2 of Morrisville, Vermont.

    Photos of the 2012 Stowe Derby courtesy of Ben Bloom: