Telemark racing slated at Big Mtn.

Whitefish Mountain Resort will host a two-day telemark race series on Jan. 7 and 8 presented by the U.S. Telemark Ski Association.

Plans call for a giant slalom and a sprint classic race. The race weekend will feature local Whitefish U.S. Telemark national and regional team members Maggie Doherty and Cole Schneider.

Members of the U.S. national and development teams from Steamboat Springs, Colo., will travel to Whitefish for the event, including Madi McKinstry, the women's 2011 national champion.

The race series will be open to the public. Race divisions will include juniors, novice, citizen, elite and masters. In addition to featuring telemark-specific classes, the race is also open to adult alpine racers. Helmets are required for all competitors.

"We're looking forward to some great races at Whitefish Mountain Resort," said Russ Hobbs, president of the U.S. Telemark Ski Association. "They always host a great event for us. We hope to see many competitors from the local telemark community."

Registration will take place the day of the race from 7:30 - 9 a.m. at the Fireside Room in Ed and Mully's. The race fee is $30 per event. Prizes, raffle items and beer from Big Sky Brewing will be served after each event at Ed and Mully's.

Volunteers are needed to assist with the event. To volunteer, contact Linda Hobbs at 862-3303. Volunteers earn a lift ticket voucher. Additional information can be found at www.ustsa.org. Don K Subaru is a main sponsor of the race.