Organized by students in Selkirk College's Ski Resort Operations & Management (SROAM) Program, the SROAMazing Race is a high-energy mountain challenge where teams ski or snowboard across the resort, completing creative activity stations combined with a handful of photo tasks.
The event is part of the students' Special Events course, where they design, promote and deliver a real event in partnership with Whitewater Mountain Resort and local sponsors.
Participants are encouraged to lean into the "mountain formal" theme by layering tuxedo jackets, dresses, bowties or other black-tie attire over their ski or snowboard gear. Prizes will be awarded for top race finishers, best-dressed teams and raffle winners.
"We wanted to create something that's a little different something active, a bit ridiculous and really fun," says Lennox Davies, a SROAM student organizer. "Seeing people skiing around the mountain in tuxedos and dresses while completing challenges should make for a pretty great day."
The event is open to skiers and snowboarders of all ages. Teams of four are recommended, though individuals can register through a "singles line" option and will be matched with other participants.
"It's a race, but it's also just about having fun on the mountain and bringing people together," says Ben Utterly, a second-year SROAM student. "We're excited to see students, locals and visitors all taking part."
Connecting the Classroom with Community
For SROAM instructor Robyn Mitz, the event is a key part of the program's experiential learning approach. "This project gives students the opportunity to plan and deliver a real event from start to finish," says Mitz. "They're working with community partners, sponsors and the resort itself. It's hands-on learning that connects the classroom with the mountain community."
Proceeds from the event will support the Team GIVE'R Foundation, a nonprofit that helps youth and young adults pursue healthy, active lifestyles through sport and community support.
