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Press Release

Annual Pond Skim to Make Splash at Big Sky’s Closing Weekend

BIG SKY, Mont. — Last April, a pair of newlyweds dressed in their traditional wedding garb made perfect ski turns hand-in–hand, down the Ambush headwall at Big Sky Resort.  The bride’s white wedding dress billowed out behind her, and the groom’s tux tails flapped in the breeze.  Then they hit the water.

It was the 2011 Big Sky Resort Pond Skim, and while not the most traditional way to consummate wedding vows, this couple chose to try their luck at the traditional spring ski event, skimming side-by-side across an icy pond at the end of a ski run.

The tradition will continue on Saturday, April 14th, 2012, when Big Sky Resort culminates the 11/12 ski season with the 9th annual Pond Skim.  One of the most exciting and entertaining events of the season, costumed skiers and snowboarders will glide down the Ambush Headwall, then attempt to skim across the surface of one or several icy ponds, complete with surprise hurdles like jumps and floating obstacles. Some skim across as easily as if it were light fluffy powder, others crash into the chilly waters. The acrobatics can be truly astounding - in previous years the event has seen nose dives, flips, cartwheels and huge dive bombs.

Skimmers and swimmers wear anything but traditional ski attire, and crazy costumes abound.  Anticipating an icy swim, some brave participants even decide that swimwear is the most appropriate thing to wear down the ski slope.

The event is free to watch, $20 to compete in, and proves to be one of the most popular events of the season – in 2011, 80 skiers and riders attempted the skim to the cheers of over 5,500 spectators.  

The 2012 Pond Skim will take place at 3pm on April 14th, allowing skiers and riders to take advantage of the last Sunset Saturday when Ramcharger Lift stays open until 5pm, an hour later than usual.  Children’s activities and music from DJ Joe will also be in the plaza all afternoon on April 14th, and once the Pond Skim is over the party continues with the band Milton Menasco and the Big Fiasco on the plaza, followed later that evening by Dirty Shame in Whiskey Jack’s.

“After another fantastic winter season, it’s always fun to end with a bang,” says Chad Jones, Big Sky Resort Public Relations Manager. “The Pond Skim appeals to people of all ages, whether they ski or not, and ensures that everyone enjoys the last weekend that Big Sky is open.”

 Call 1-800-548-4486 for details or visit www.bigskyresort.com to check event information and lodging specials.