Ski-golf and parties also on tap for closing weekend at Whitefish Mt. Resort

By DAVID ERICKSON / Whitefish Pilot

It promises to be a fun-filled closing weekend at Whitefish Mountain Resort this Saturday and Sunday. Numerous activities are scheduled, including pond skimming, the annual ski-golf classic and 60th anniversary closing ceremonies.

Ticket prices will be reduced to $29 for an adult all-day pass this week. There will also be a fundraising party hosted by the ski patrol at the Great Northern Bar on Sunday evening, after the resort closes for the season.

The pond skimming competition on Saturday usually draws a big crowd to watch the craziest daredevils around. The event celebrates the wacky feeling of spring and the end of the ski season, according to the WMR events website.

Participants must be 21-and-older and have skis or snowboards worn appropriately (mounted normally) as they attempt to skim across an 80-foot long pond next to the base of Chair 1. Costumes are recommended and will be judged.

Skimming is an individual competition based on the longest ride. Participants will advance to the next round after a successful skim at increasing distances.

There will be money prizes for first place, skis and boards for second-place, gear for 3rd-5th place skimmers and for best costume, and a one-hour massage for best crash.

The event is limited to 60 participants. Entry fees are $25 per person in advance. Participants should pre-register at least one day prior to event. For more information, call 862-2900.

The annual Ski-Golf Classic, a one-day alpine ski race and 9-hole round of golf, will take place on Sunday. The giant slalom race will take place on Lower Hellroaring Run from 9:30 to 11 a.m., followed by golfing at the Big Mountain Golf Club. Cost is $65 per individual or $260 per team. For more information, call 862-2900.

The ski patrollers party will take place Sunday from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Great Northern Bar with music by Missoula-based Tom Catmull and the Clerics. The costume theme this year is “Rockstar.” Any money left after paying the band will go to the Ski Patrol Fund, which donates to ALERT and Special Olympics. Tickets are available from any patroller on the mountain or from a patrol cabin. Call 862-1922 for tickets and any questions.

“It’s going to be the party to end all parties,” said patroller Andy Burbine.

For more information on these events, visit online at www.skiwhitefish.com.