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Skiers say ‘bye to winter at Phoenix Open

Over 60 skiers hit the slopes for family-friendly races
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Bennett Dunbar, 8, got a little help suiting up from dad Brady Dunbar just before the races started.

Ski season is winding down in the Boundary Region, so the best and bravest hit the slopes to show off their skills in the annual Phoenix Open on Saturday afternoon.

A total of 60 skiers and snowboarders, running in age from five to 80 years old, donned bibs and left their ski and snowboard marks on the slopes in timed races to see who would come out on top. Along with the wide age range, skiers included members of Phoenix Mountain’s youth ski team, Ski Patrol, and even staff and volunteers, along with seasoned skiers.

Each competitor was given two runs, with the best time of the two being taken for their final placing.

While competitive, the entire event was a casual, fun family event meant to let skiers and snowboarders show off their skills, earn a medal and bragging rights. A few minor glitches, including digital timers and soaring temperatures causing sticky sections on the course didn’t stop competitors.

Along with race prizes, there were numerous door prizes for winners picked out of a hat.

For the skiing, the top finishers were:

Female:

12 and under - Shelby Welwood, 11

13-18 - Ralli Frederick, 14

41-59 - Shannon Frederick 42

Male:

12 and under - Alexi Pankoff, 11

13 -18 - Brennan Zorn, 17

19 - 40 - Zendar Rockall, 25

41 - 59 - Tyler van Moll, 43

60-plus - David Phillips , 64

For snowboarders, the top finishers were:

Female:

12 and under - Georgia Routley, 11

13 - 18 - Macie Stotts, 13

19 - 40 - Molly Lindsay , 20

41 - 59 - Lindsay Siska, 41

Male:

13-18 - Cameron McKay, 14

19-40 - Chris Astofooroff, 37

41-59 - Tyler van Moll, 43

Full results in all categories and overall results can be found at skiphoenix.ca.

Photos by Karen McKinley

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The patio was packed with spectators and participants alike taking in the views and ongoing races.
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Derek Pankoff carves a clean path through the course on his first run in the Male 41-59 Snowboard category. He ultimately won second overall in the age category.
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Crowds of skiers and snowboarders gathered on the slopes around the slalom course to watch the racers fly down the hill.
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Lincoln Welwood kept a tight run around the gates.
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All ages were allowed to race, with racers as young as five, to as old at 80.


About the Author: Karen McKinley

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