The Rahlves’ Banzai Tour is the world’s premier big mountain free skiing meets skier and boarder-cross event. This is the ultimate test of ski and riding skills. With $80,000 in prize money up for grabs, skiers and snowboarders race down some very challenging terrains. The races will be held February 4-5 at Alpine Meadows, February 11-12 at Kirkwood, March 3-4 at Squaw Valley USA and March 10-11 at Sugar Bowl.
Open entry for the Rahlves’ Banzai Tour is for men and women 18 years old and up. A solo qualifying run on each Saturday ranks the top 32 men and the top 16 women from ski and board for Sunday’s finals and a shot at the title. The top two in each round advance through the brackets until the remaining four battle it out for the podium and title of Banzai Champ. It’s racing in its purest form. All events have a unique feel as each resort has different terrain. Local skiers and boarders will do their best to defend home turfs while others strive to take it.
Daron Rahlves, former U.S. World Cup and Olympic ski racer, is the organizer of the event. Daron is responsible for the growth and success of the tour along with the help of host resorts, event partnerships and the competitors. The Silver Belt Banzai Race first took place in the 1940’s at Sugar Bowl Resort and was re-born in 2009 with one event in its current form. In 2009 and 2010, one race was held each year at Sugar Bowl. In 2011, The Rahlves’ Banzai Tour was created with the three additional resorts. Rahlves does not compete in any of the individual events, but is at each one to ski, open up the qualifying runs, assist competitors with tactics, and enjoy the vibe. At Sugar Bowl’s tour final, Rahlves will compete in the “Super Final” taking on the men’s ski winners from each stop.
“The Rahlves’ Banzai Tour 2011 was a huge success,” says Rahlves. “It’s exceeded my expectations. What’s been most rewarding is the positive support from spectators and competitors. It’s been fun to see skiers and snowboarders compete—getting out of their comfort level and loving it. It’s good for the average skier and rider and the skills of everyone have improved.”
The Rahlves’ Banzai Tour isn’t just a race, but an experience. There are vendor village exhibit areas, numerous spectator viewing spots, finish line BBQ’s and post-race parties with live music and DJ’s. These races are another example of our region’s ability to host world class winter sports and show how Reno-Tahoe would be a perfect location for the next Olympic Winter Games held in North America.
For more information on the Rahlves Banzai Tour visit online.
