INDEPENDENT NEWS

World Heli Challenge Postponed

Published: Tue 8 Jul 2008 10:46 AM
World Heli Challenge Postponed
Seattle, WA (July 7, 2008) – After much deliberation, this year’s World Heli Challenge – one of the most captivating and unique snow event across the globe – has regretfully been postponed until 2009. The decision was made based on sponsorship developments and to ensure that the event will be staged in all its glory. This one of a kind event is now set to take place in the Mt. Cook National Park region of New Zealand from August 29 to September 12, 2009.
The World Heli Challenge will feature the cream of the world’s top snowboard and ski athletes, representing their respective brands while competing head to head with the utmost style. Three days of helicopter-accessed riding will go down over this two-week period, allowing for perfect weather and snow conditions for the Big Mountain, Backcountry Freestyle and Downhill competition to take place. In addition, the athletes are treated to an onslaught of adrenaline-pumping activities during the surrounding non-event days, incorporating jet boating, bungee jumping, golfing, surfing, mountain biking and everything else New Zealand is renowned for in the world of adventure and excitement. This event, like no other, puts the freeride ski and snowboard scene on center stage and shows what it takes in mental, physical and logistical preparation for every athlete involved.
“The event sounds like some ridiculous fantasy,” says freeskier Drew Tabke, currently ranked fourth overall in the world. “It looks like the most incredible experience someone could ever have. If I got the opportunity [to participate], I would be endlessly grateful.” And although spending more time on the big screen these days than on snow competing, two-time World Champion Chris Davenport has confirmed his entry into 2009: “The World Heli Challenge is my favorite competition on earth. No other ski or snowboard event combines freestyle, extreme and psycho downhill skills like the Heli Challenge."
In the meantime, for those who just can’t wait for 2009, a select group of riders and media will be gathering this September in New Zealand for a couple days of heli-accessed filming and shooting in anticipation of next year’s main event.
For all details surrounding the World Heli Challenge, go to www.worldhelichallenge.com. For a host of historical images of the event, please visit www.wheresharro.com and view the blog dated 26 / May / 2008.
ENDS

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