EXPLORE BIG SKY STAFF WRITER
BIG SKY RESORT – The Headwaters Spring Runoff has become an annual tradition for local tough guys and gals, drawing competitors from around the region to test themselves on the steep chutes, gullies and cliffs on the north side of Lone Mountain.
The adult competition will be Saturday, March 15, and the juniors’ a week later, on Saturday, March 22. Both are open to 80 adult and 80 junior competitors, with divisions for men and women alpine and telemark skiers, and for snowboarders.
Spectators can watch the event from Stillwater Bowl, with great line-of-sight views into the cirque.
“The Headwaters terrain is such a unique freeskiing venue,” said Dave Benes, Big Sky Resort Ski Patrol Assistant Director. “The steeps alone catch your eye, with angles upwards of 55 degrees. The variety of tight, technical lines and wide open amphitheater allow for multiple line combinations and tons of creativity.”
The junior athletes will be allowed to choose lines from Alder Gulch to Hellroaring, and the adult athletes can ride everything between Firehole and Rock Creek.
The junior event is sanctioned by the International Free Skiing Association, allowing riders to earn points towards their IFSA standings. That division combines skiers and snowboarders unless a large number of snowboard athletes register.
Prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place finishers in each division and are provided by sponsorships from local businesses.
