* 2014 Stowe Derby will be on Sunday, February 23rd, 2014 *

The Stowe Derby is one of the oldest and most unique ski races in North America.  It started in 1945 as a personal challenge between two amazing skiers - Austrian, Sepp Ruschp who was hired to come to America and head the new ski school at Stowe and Erling Strom, world famous mountaineer from Norway.  The challenge was the same as it is today - to race from the top of Mt. Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak to the historic village of Stowe... on ONE pair of skis! The ultimate test of a skiers ability.  Ruschp was the winner of the first Stowe Derby.

Today, the race attracts over 900 competitors, ranging from Canadian Cross Country Ski Team members and NCAA Champions to recreational skiers looking for a thrill. While the race can be very competitive at all levels, it is also a fun race, having been chosen as one of the top sporting events in the state by readers of Vermont Sports Magazine.

Over the course, participants ski through 20km of challenging terrain, racing down Mt. Mansfield's Toll Road and along the entire length of the Stowe Recreation Path before reaching the finish in the village.  The course has a total vertical drop of over 2,600 feet.  The winners will complete the course in under 45 minutes, while recreational skiers can take a couple of hours to go the same distance.

by Pascale Savard

Every year brings it own set of challenges and rewards, and despite all the uncontrollable factors that had organizers scramble for quick solutions, the 68th running of the Stowe Derby will go down as one of the most Epic Derby’s of the decade.

The numbers were strong at 644 registered skiers and the spirits were higher than ever after Mother Nature finally rewarded skiers and snow lovers with much appreciated snow in the week leading to the legendary race. The Stowe Derby is more than a ski race, it is the most exciting ski experience to be had. This year, the race was held on its traditional route, starting at the top of Mt. Mansfield’s Auto Toll Road and ending in the Village of Stowe, some 20 km down the road.

Stowe, Vermont - Mother Nature is on our side this year and skiing in Stowe has been spectacular. The forecast for the next seven days leading to the race is perfect and uneventful, light snow and cool temperatures... we are happy to report that the Derby is going to town!