The Stowe Nordic Ski Derby—one of the longest-running Nordic ski races in the country—will take place this Sunday, Feb. 23, at Mount Mansfield, Vermont. This year marks the 80th Anniversary of the Derby, which was conceived in 1945. However, the race hasn’t been held every year, due to weather, snow conditions, and a hiatus in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s.
The historic Derby Long Course begins at the top of Mansfield’s Toll Road and finishes 12.5 miles later in the town of Stowe. Some 250 competitors are expected to enter this year’s race, ranging from Ski Team members to novice skiers.
Awards will be given to top finishers from kids under 10 to adult participants who finish in the top three in each category. There will also be awards for Best Costume and Best Spirit.
Derby Long Course (20KM): participants ski through approximately 20 km of challenging terrain, racing down Mt. Mansfield’s Toll Road, traveling through the Stowe Mountain Resort Touring Center trails then cruising the rec path to the finish line in the village of Stowe. The course has a total vertical drop of almost 2,800 feet. Elite racers complete the course in about 45 minutes, while recreational skiers may take a couple of hours.
Derby Short Course (6KM): a shorter option for families and children ages 6 and up. This flat race is 6 km and begins in a mass start along the rec path in Stowe.
Race Cancellation: If the race is canceled due to weather, it will not be rescheduled.
For more information and to purchase tickets visit mmsca.org/events/stowe-derby/
