Grand Targhee Skimo Classic and Pierra Menta 2010

A bit of current news that should interest you if you are into ski mountaineering racing:

This Saturday is arguably the most important day in US skimo racing this season for those shooting for the stars…and a National Team.

The second news is a brief update on Pierra Menta since the French released some teaser info and it is also a time to register.

Grand Targhee Ski Mountaineering Classic

The event will be held this Saturday – January 9th, 2010 – at the Grand Targhee ski area, located on the north side of Grand Teton National Park.

The significance of the race is due to a US National Skimo Team selection process. One of the chances for athletes to make the team is to have a great result at this race. Then, if successful,  in March they would be off to Europe to compete at the World Skimo Championships and Pierra Menta.

You can find more information about the event on USSMA website – Grand Targhee Skimo Classic.

25 years of Pierra Menta

While ski mountaineering and randonnee racing is still quite young in North America the Europeans have been hammering for some time. Between March 11-14th 2010 the four day stage race will write its 25th year in history.

To read their official press release you don’t need to speak English. French, Spanish or Italian is enough .

The links to that press release are on the event’s home page, within the center column area, below a title “Communiqué de presse”. They are PDFs, so might load a bit slower.

For those that want to register it is about time to get ready. Even though that I cannot find anything on that topic on their website the registration will open in the next few days. Be ready to grab your spot as there is a limited number and there are no exceptions – first come, first serve.

BTW, to compete in Pierra Menta you don’t have to be a member of any national team. The race is not part of the World Cup, therefore, it is open to anyone. And youth can race too – special two day Pierra Menta – which is awesome.

» Tags: Pierra Menta, Ski Mountaineering World Championships