PUCON, Chile—October 1 – 4 2011 will mark Avalancha en el Volcán; the first freeride competition from the summit of an active volcano. The competition will take place on the best day for corn snow (melt-freeze) conditions between October 1-4 on Villarrica Volcano near Pucón, Chile. Accomplished skiers and snowboarders from all over the world will descend the volcano in heats of 5 riders every 2 minutes. The objective of the timed race is to pass through every reference point (gate) on the descent of the volcano. The top three fastest times in each category (male/female: skiing, snowboarding, and Master’s division) win prizes of cash, Patagonia clothing, Rossignol skis and snowboards, BCA Avalanche beacons, and most importantly, local artisanal beer.
Freeride Chinese downhill race from the summit of Volcano Villarrica in CHILE
This competition combines the elements of physical stamina and freeride skill to climb up and then complete a time descent over 1500 vertical meters while passing through the seven established checkpoints on the mountain.
Avalancha en el Volcán also celebrates mountain lifestyle and the finish of a phenomenal season in South America. Competition entry fees include four days of lift passes at Villarrica-Pucón, discounts on lodging and food in the town of Pucón, stickers, tshirts, and swag from event sponsors, as well as entry to the final party of Avalancha en el Volcan including live music, DJ, local beer made from Araucaria trees, and the “Buena Onda” that comes with skiing and riding in the Southern Hemisphere.
The 2,847 meter Volcan Villarrica is famous for pulsing clouds of ash and sulfur into the atmosphere over the Pucón valley and is known as a pinnacle Patagonian backcountry descent.
Avalancha en el Volcan is the first event of its type and is expected to bring accomplished skiers and snowboarders from all over the world to compete for prizes and to celebrate the spirit of mountain life.
For more information and to sign up, visit avalanchaenelvolcan.cl
