Registration open for Kinder Kup Race Series to Benefit Heavenly Foundation

The Heavenly Ski and Snowboard Foundation will kick-off the 12th Annual Kinder Kup Race Series at Heavenly Mountain Resort on Sunday, January 22, from 8am to 2pm. Open to all skiers and snowboarders age six and under, the Kinder Kup series is designed to introduce young athletes to competition in a friendly environment. No previous race experience necessary and all abilities are welcome. Entry is $20 and includes a World Cup only competitor lift ticket if needed.

“The Kinder Kup is a great opportunity for families to get young athletes racing,” said Raquel Norton, Foundation Alpine Team program director. “We expect to host 60 plus competitors at each event and proceeds benefit the Alpine Race Team.”

The Kinder Kup is a three event series with races January 22, February 26 and March 25, 2012. All races take place at Heavenly Mountain Resort on the World Cup chair lift located at the California base across from the Heavenly Tram. Registration is $20 per event and registration forms can be found online at www.heavenlyfoundationteam.org. Advance registration is recommended.

On-site registration is available the morning of the event at the Heavenly Foundation building from 8am to 9am. Practice begins at 9 am, each competitor is allowed two practice runs; the race starts at 10 am. Every competitor is awarded a participation medal and a swag bag filled with goodies. Overall champions will be awarded trophies at the final event.

The Foundation will serve coffee and bake sale items throughout the morning. The BBQ begins at noon and combos include a burger or hot dog, chips and a drink for a $7 donation to the Foundation.

About the Heavenly Ski and Snowboard Foundation
The Heavenly Ski and Snowboard Foundation is committed to facilitating and leading the local community in the development of programs to encourage youth to participate in winter sports, alpine skiing and snowboarding. The HSSF operates independently on donations and fundraisers. In addition to providing a safe skiing and riding experience to those within the foundation, outreach and community involvement also play a big part of the base of the Foundation.

Throughout the winter season the HSSF provides scholarships to families whose children would not be able to participate in the race program; hosts a non-race Blue Angels program through the middle school; works with the SOS (Snowsports Outreach Society); works with the Boys and Girls Club of South Lake Tahoe; and organizes multiple events, like the Kinder Kup race series, and fundraisers including the annual spring wine gala, Grapes and Gates, at Edgewood. For more information on the Heavenly Ski and Snowboard Foundation visit www.heavenlyfoundationteam.org, email aimix@heavenlyfoundationteam.org or call the administrative offices at (530) 541-7354.

— Aimi Xistra-Rich is the executive director of the Heavenly Ski and Snowboard Foundation