46th annual Loveland Derby set for April 22 -23

46th annual Loveland Derby set for April 22 -23{mosimage}The Loveland Derby, the oldest and largest alpine race in North America is returning to the slopes of Colorado’s Loveland Ski Area April 22 23.

For 45 years the Loveland Derby has attracted racers from across the United States as well as top college racers and many of the nation’s best junior racers looking to lower their points one last time before the summer thaw or to just celebrate the end of another great racing season.

In its 46th running, Loveland is expecting 500 to 600 racers, said CB Bechtel, Loveland Race Club Director.

‘This is our largest race of the year’ Bechtel said. ‘An average race typically has around 200 competitors. We will easily have triple that number racing in the Loveland Derby.’

Bechtel estimated that if past Derby’s are any indications, half the racers will come to Loveland looking to lower their FIS points, and the other half will come to celebrate the end of the season. Costumes are welcome, he said, and Loveland will be handing out small gifts to everybody who dresses up for the event.

This year, all the members of the Loveland Racing Club will be wearing pink as a tribute to Kala Hoss, a long-time Loveland Racing Club mother and volunteer, Bechtel said.

‘Kala was a great mom and volunteer for our club and pink was her favorite color’ explained Bechtel. ‘We’ll be collecting donations for the American Heart Association at the Derby.’

The 46th Annual Loveland Derby will be held at the Loveland Valley on four courses spread across three trails. Contestants of all ages are welcome, but all racers must be licensed USSA members.

Log on to www.lovelandracing.com for more information on rules and registration.