Brattleboro, Vermont can now claim the newest 90-meter ski jump in the country (and the only 90-meter jump in New England) just in time for the 85th annual Harris Hill Ski Jumping Competition presented by Pepsi-Cola slated for Valentine’s Weekend, Saturday and Sunday, February 14 and 15. Start time is at Noon and goes until dark.
Ski jumping at Harris Hill is one of Brattleboro’s much loved traditions that dates back to 1922. Over the years the event grew to draw jumpers and spectators from around the world to this small Vermont town. As the new hill nears completion on schedule—and none too soon for the construction team that faces the challenges of working on a frighteningly steep incline in bitter cold weather, Pat Howell, co-chair of the organizing committee that runs the competition reflects, “I am absolutely in awe…this is the culmination of three years of tenacious volunteer effort, out-of-the-box thinking, local ‘can do’ attitude and stunning generosity.”
Situated on the edge of a Brattleboro cornfield, located on Cedar Street, off of Route 30 or off exit 2 I91 to Cedar Street,the brand new jump was totally re-built to FIS (International Federation of Skiing) specifications and will once again bring jumpers from around the world to compete in the two-day event that is now sanctioned by the US Ski Association (USSA).
Approximately 20 top jumpers from the United States and Europe will compete this year at the Grand re-opening competition—one of New England’s premiere winter sporting events. The Harris Hill venue offers spectators a thrilling experience with this Olympic sport and a first-hand understanding of why it’s called “The Original Extreme Sport™. Spectators can watch the jumpers up close as they launch from the top of the jump—so close that they can hear the “whoosh” as they take off and soar more than 300 feet at speeds of 60 mph before they land.
The festival atmosphere of the event is led by fans of all ages. Concessions, a bonfire, a beer tent and event souvenirs will all be on-site. But it’s the opportunity to watch the best skiers around the world compete on a jump that was rebuilt due to the dedication of Southern Vermont’s own that will make this event soar to new heights in February.
The 85th Annual Harris Hill Ski Jumping Competition is presented by Pepsi-Cola; Powered by Entergy and Powdered by MountSnow.For updated information, including full schedules, tickets, results and information about purchasing a step, go to HarrisHillSkiJump.org. Discount Tickets can be purchased at the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce & MountSnowValley Chamber of Commerce. $12 for adults and $8 for kids (age 6-12) – kids age five and under are free.
At the gate: $15 for adults and $10 for kids.
For full schedules, results, and volunteer opportunities, go to: HarrisHillSkiJump.org.
Those interested in purchasing a step (which is tax deductible), should contact Liz Richards at 802-258-0975.
