Area skiers and snowboarders are gearing up for the 8th annual CPHS “Ski for the Animals” at Blue Knob All-Seasons Resort.
The two-day event will be held February 25-26 with proceeds benefiting homeless animals at the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society’s shelter in Altoona.
A special “Ski-a-thon” is currently underway with skiers and snowboarders collecting pledges and vying for prizes for the top fundraisers. The grand prize this year will be a choice of either a two-night stay in a luxury condo at Blue Knob or a season lift pass. Both prizes have been donated by Blue Knob All-Seasons Resort, a prime sponsor of the campaign along with Spokes n’ Skis in Lakemont.
“We know this will be a major incentive in our ‘Ski/Snowboard-a-Thon’ event,” said CPHS Executive Director, Dave Hopkins.
To take part in the ski-a-thon event, participants collect pledges from friends, family, co-workers, neighbors and animal lovers to contribute money used in helping homeless animals at the shelter.
“We hope the incentive of a condo stay at the resort will help boost pledges again this year,” said Hopkins. “We encourage skiers and snowboarders at all levels of experience to give this a try, but folks do not have to actually ski or board to take part.”
Pledge forms along with rules can be picked up at Blue Knob, the CPHS shelter location in Altoona (1837 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd.), at local ski/sport shops such as Spokes n’ Skis or from veterinary offices. All pledges must be turned in during the weekend of events at Blue Knob with 4 p.m. Sunday, February 26 as the deadline.
All those who raise $20 or more in pledges will receive a special, limited edition “Ski for the Animals” T-shirt. Other prizes, such as lift tickets, restaurant gift certificates and sports equipment will be drawn at random and awarded to those collecting donations.
Among the events to be held over the weekend:
• Celebrity Obstacle Course: A fun race by some favorite local media personalities. It’s a great chance to see celebrities at their best on the slopes. The fun starts Saturday at 1 p.m. at the top of the mountain just outside the rental shack.
• Race for the Animals: A timed downhill ski race on a Nastar Course held Saturday from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. This popular event awards medals to winners in various age groups. Last year dozens of racers took part in this fun race for personal achievement and “bragging rights.” For just $5, contestants get two timed runs. Participants must pre-register by 1 p.m. to compete and
• “The Great Snow Shovel Race”: A fast and furious ride down a “slippery slope” with the quickest riders winning a trophy or plaque. Past races have offered lots of spills and thrills, and best of all, no experience is needed. Entry fee is $5. The race will be held Sunday, February 26 at 1 p.m. Contestants must pre-register.
Participants in all events should visit the CPHS table located in the Summit Lodge near the ticket sales window to register at anytime throughout the weekend.
“Ski for the Animals 2006” is made possible through the generous support of major sponsors, including: Blue Knob Resort, Spokes-n-Skis, Lee Industries, DeGol Organization, Auto Wholesalers, Serbin, Kovacs and Nypaver, Attys., The Winds at Mattern Orchard, Saleme Insurance, Allegheny Orthotics and Prosthetics, Mid-State Trailer Rental, Altoona Emergency Wrecker Service, Ellis Office Supply, Thomas M. Dickey, V.I.P. Pet/Aquarium, Dave’s Sports Collectibles, and Swan’s Trophies Plus.
“CPHS invites everyone interested in winter sports and animals to make plans to be at Blue Knob on that special weekend of February 25-26 and find out for themselves how much fun they can have,” said Hopkins. “At the same time, a reminder that everything contributed whether its collecting pledges, donating money or time, all goes towards helping the shelter take care of the animals and finding them permanent homes.”
In addition to the competitive events, organizers will hold a special raffle with major prizes up for grabs. The first place winner will choose from either new skis or a ski board (courtesy “Spokes-N-Skis”) valued at up to $600, or a Blue Knob season lift ticket. Other items include dining gift certificates, ski and sport equipment and other merchandise/services.
Raffle tickets, $5 each or three for $10, are now on sale and can be bought at Spokes-n-Skis, the CPHS shelter office and several other locations.
For more information on the event, call CPHS at 942-2477, check with local ski clubs or Blue Knob Resort at 239-5111.
