Cross-country skiing in June at 85 degrees is an exotic and challenging event not only for the athletes but for event organizers as well. Last March huge piles of snow were covered with a giant tarp and saved for the Summer Ski Fest at Tyrol Basin Ski Area, Mount Horeb, WI just 25 mile west of Madison. Originally the length of the race course was planned to be around 550 to 600 meters with short climbs, down hills and some flat parts. However 2 hours prior to the start of the event the Pisten Bully could not handle the spreading around of more icy snow. This did not affect the trail conditions, which were perfect for June skiing, but did add more vertical climbing to the course. Â The fastest time was recorded by Steve Scott who completed the sprint in 1 min 41.14 seconds.
In the future race organizers will plan to possibly have the event on Sunday night with professional timing equipment, on-line registration, cash prizes, a live band, more elite athletes and adding longer flat sections to the race course.Â
Photos: Â http://www.madnorski.org/summer-ski/Â and http://www.rsss-usa.com/Summer%20Sprints%20Photos/Summer_Sprints.htm
Video: http://homepage.mac.com/bachmeier/ski/iMovieTheater38.html
Capitol Times: http://www.madison.com/captimes/news/stories/76013.php
