1. Speed Race
Dubbed as "Jackass on Ice", the
Speed Race is one of the most adrenaline educed
ski events out there. It's well known
for both the physical endurance involved and the sheer stupidity of competitors. It may only be 130m long, but the
feat is pronounced by the fact that all contestants start at the same time. One small fall and it could all be over
for dozens of racers. The Grand National of skiing is open to all, though enter at your own peril.
Engelberg, Switzerland | December (Annually)
2. Inferno Race
Known as the best amateur ski event in Europe, the
Inferno Race
has been bringing in more and more people
since opening in 1928. It's a four day ski event that truly puts your skills to the test. Skiers
endure Cross-Country, a Giant Slalom and a Downhill, with a huge procession on the final night
where the fun comes to a close. More than 1,800 skiers attend the event, making it
the largest non-professional Alpine ski competition in the world. Mürren, Switzerland | January (Annually)
3. Santa Ski & Board Challenge
Aiming more at the light-hearted angle, this popular event sees contestants donning their Santa gear for a 5km
endurance race. Equating to 25 downhill runs of this indoor slope, the task must be completed within 2 hours.
All proceeds go towards the
Momentum
charity, which helps disabled and socially-excluded people in Scotland to
achieve their goals. As a great day out for all the family, this is definitely an event in the name of fun and good
spirit. Braehead, Scotland | December (Annually)
4. Bettmeralp Waterslide Competition
Making an entirely new name for Water-Skiing, the
Bettmeralp Waterslide Competition
is just about as crazy as things
can get at a ski resort. Heroic contestants must plunder down a short, snowy slope and attempt to cross an icy pool
of water at the base in any which way they can. Add to this some fancy dress and the choice of either skis or a
snowboard and you're looking at a ski event that's certainly not for the faint of heart. Brrr!
Bettmeralp, Switzerland | March (Annually)
5. La Sgambeda Marathon
Along the Spöl Valley every year, the intense
La Sgambeda marathon
draws in not just the crowds but thousands of
ski enthusiasts in a bid to overcome the enthralling race. At 42km in length, it's a tough course that finishes in
style at the Cross country stadium. The winner picks up a huge prize of €5,000 and of course all the glory of
overcoming this incredible feat in first. If you don't feel quite up to participating, the ski event is free to watch and is
a definite must see!
Livigno, Italy | December (Annually)
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