2014 FAQs

POLL PAGE

Does this mean we’re abandoning the traditional Tahoe to Truckee course?

No. We are committed to the traditional course from Tahoe XC to Cottonwood Restaurant in Truckee. This is a change we’re considering for 2014 due to the very unusual snow conditions this winter.

How and when will Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue make the call on this year’s Great Ski Race? How will we find out what’s decided?

We will make the call as soon as we have 300 committments or by midnight on Wednesday February 19, whichever comes first. We need this many votes to put on the race as a viable fundraiser. You can track responses on the POLL PAGE, (click on “view results” next to the submit button.) We’ll  also send out an e-mail announcing our decision.

Is there enough snow at Royal Gorge?

Royal Gorge got several feet of snow this last storm and has 60 kilometers of groomed trails. With cold nights this time of year, we’re confident that there will be plenty of snow at Royal Gorge for good race conditions.

Is this a “backup plan” to the traditional course for this year?

No. This will be a final decision for 2014. We need the time we have left to put all the pieces in place for this year’s event.

Race prices were supposed to increase Feb 16 – what’s up with that?

We’ll keep race prices at $60 through Friday February 21st. On Saturday February 22nd prices will increase to $70, and then to $110 on race day.

What will the course be?

We’re exploring routes, but it’ll be one large loop, not multiple loops of the same course. The course will showcase the incredible scenery at Royal Gorge. The start and finish will likely be Summit Station.

We will post a course map and parking plan as soon as they are finalized.

What’s up with a short course option?

If we proceed with the race, we’ll offer a 15k short course option. If you haven’t had much time on skis this winter, that’ll make it easier to participate. The short course will be priced the same and 15k results will be timed separately.

Will there be t-shirts? Soup stations? What about the finish line party?

We’re going for the same “racer experience” as our traditional event, including t-shirts,  rest/aid/soup stations, and the best party of the year at the finish line.

Will I get my money back if I sign up and the race is cancelled or if I can’t participate or change my mind?

This event is a fundraiser for a great nonprofit that’s in the business of saving lives. We NEED your financial support!  So go ahead, sign up, and dedicate yourself to the cause. Or make a donation to Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue. We have a no refund policy.

What if it’s bad weather on race day?

We’re committed to putting on a quality event, and can’t guarantee specific weather conditions for the race. Precip adds another dimension to the race and is part of XC ski racing. Dress appropriately, and go for it. Or just show up for the party, it’s up to you.

Will The Great Ski Race® really be able to pull off such a big swicheroo?

The Great Ski Race is run by members of the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue team.  We have a LOT of experience changing plans “on the fly” – search operations never go as planned, we have to adapt as we go. Compared to what we face during searches, this one’s a piece of cake. We have 120 committed volunteers who will make sure you have a “Great” Ski Race!