Snow conditions have been challenging lately and picking the best, and safest route for the Derby has been somewhat of a puzzling challenge.  While the goal is to have the race end as close to town as possible, we have now decided that the course will not go any further than the TopNotch field, behind the Tennis Center.  The lower part of the Stowe Rec Path is simply too thin and icy and there is very little snow that can be moved around to make this situation a better one.  The new selected location is perfect and large enough to handle our finish.

On the other hand, the Derby course will not be OFFICIAL until Saturday.  Some mixed precipitation including some "R..." is expected for Friday, and the amount and form of precipitation is still very much up in the air.  If the trail does not get affected by that last challenge Mother Nature is throwing our way, we will stick with Plan B.  Here is plan B - so far...

• Start at the Top of the Look Out chair Lift.
• Race down the Toll Road to the Stowe Mountain Resort Touring Center as usual.
• Ski a longer loop on their xc trails, possibly including Timberlane, Bruce and Burt trail before connecting back to the Stowe Derby Trail.
• Run the Derby Trail as usual (including the big climb after the bridge) before skiing down the steep Pipeliine to the Percy Field.
• An extra loop around that field will be added as well as one around the TopNotch event field. The trail will be clearly marked with plenty of course markers and volunteers will be at intersections to make sure skiers follow the new trail.  We should be close to 20km from those add ons.
• the finish will be behind the Tennis Courts at TopNotch Resort.  No extra parking is available, please use the bus transportation offered for Derby racers.
• After a shower at the Stowe High School, feel free to go directly to the Rusty Nail. Derby racers will be served a meal at 3:30ish but the place will be open from 12noon for everyone wishing to purchase food and drinks.