Hello Skiers,
As you know, once every few years, in just the right weather conditions, skiing is possible in Portland.
In January of 2004, skiing was possible for several days. In January of 2007, skiing was possible for about 1 1/2 days. Every once in a while, if we are lucky, the planets align and snow falls in the city. We only need an inch or two to permit skiing.
Because Portland is not equipped for snow, there is almost no plowing. As a result, cars pack the snow down into an IDEAL surface for skate and classic skiing. The city briefly reverts to a temporary ski paradise - like that mysterious town in Scotland that appears only once every hundred years.
In January of this year, I skated all over downtown and Northwest Portland for hours - up and down Broadway and NW 23rd, through the Pearl District - everywhere! It was absolutely amazing.
It occurred to me, "You know, there ought to be a ski tradition in Portland. When it snows enough to ski in the streets, everyone should meet at a certain spot at a certain time for an impromptu ski race." This year conditions were good enough to allow a full on urban nordic ski race all over town. Can't you just see hundreds of skiers flying through the city like something from a Norwegian dream? I can.
Therefore, I am asking you to help me start this new tradition. The challenge here is that we need to publicize the idea and get people interested in it even though the next snowfall may not occur for years! We need to be ready the next time it does snow for the first annual Brigadoon ski race. Think snow!
Does this sound like something you would like to see happen? If so, tell your friends!
Here's a blog dedicated to the concept:
brigadoonskirace.blogspot.com
This is where more info will reside, where people can talk about the idea, make suggestions, etc. We need to build awareness in the skier community about this new tradition so the next time it snows, people will be ready.
Brigadoon!
Thanks and pass it on!
wingnut
