“Bear Valley has a rich history with the WPST, hosting world renowned athletes such as 3x Olympic Gold Medalist, Jean Claude Killy, and World Champion and Olympic Silver Medalist, Billy Kidd, as well as the legendary Spider Sabich in the 1970’s,” says Jon Franklin, CEO of the WPST. “There was skiing in Bear Valley starting in 1855 and today’s Bear Valley provides a mid-century modern base village, a chill ski lodge and terrain to suit everyone from families to pro racers, so we’re very excited to be back.”
Today’s iteration of the WPST brings the world’s fastest professional dual ski racers together each season with Olympians, World Champions, NCAA All-Americans and more. Bear Valley will host returning Tour Champions Rob Cone and Tuva Norbye, along with a field of international pro racers; qualifiers are open to all who would like to try their chances in the gates. Registration is open through February 7th at WorldProSkiTour.com.
“The last time the WPST came to Bear Valley, I was just a little kid,” says Tim Schimke, Bear Valley Director of Operations. “I still remember the excitement. Having the races come back to the mountain my family has lived on for generations brings it full circle; Schimkes have Bear Valley DNA in our blood. I can’t wait to bring my parents and children to the WPST and show the world how awesome the skiing is here.”
The WPST Bear Valley race schedule offers:
- February 10th: 10am Qualifiers
- February 11th: 11am Men’s & Women’s Giant Slalom Races & 3:30pm Tito’s Après Party
- February 12th: 11am Men’s & Women’s Super Slalom Races & 3:30pm Tito’s Après Party
Spectators are welcome to the festival finish area at the base of the course on Bear Valley’s Feather Duster trail, featuring new and returning sponsors, including: CELSIUS Energy Drink, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, CB Sports, CLCKR Mobile Devices, DNA Vibe, Seiko Prospex time pieces, REVO goggles, Surefoot Ski Boots, World Pro Ski Tour gear, and more. The qualifiers can be watched live on the World Pro Ski Tour Facebook Live, and the Round of 16-through Finals is available on FloLive.tv.