Where to Ski And Snowboard - Serre Chevalier to host record-breaking ski race

Serre Chevalier to host record-breaking ski race

7th March 2019, by Abi Butcher

Serre Chevalier prepares to host the craziest ski race in France - the Grand Prix de Serre Chevalier

The French ski resort of Serre Chevalier is aiming to host a record-breaking event later this month, hoping to put together the largest gathering of amateur skiers in the world.

Some 1900 skiers and snowboarders are anticipated to arrive in the resort for the third running of “The Grand Prix de Serre Chevalier” on Saturday 16 March, for what is fast becoming known as the ‘craziest race in the country’. The event is a mix between a derby, an endure, an orienteering race, a marathon, rally and ‘mud day’ type obstacle course — to help people rediscover the Briançon, Chantemerle, Villeneuve & Monêtier ski areas of Serre Chevalier. There are two courses to choose from – the “Doux” (cruise) and the “Dingues” (crazy) and skiers/snowboarders can take part as individuals or in teams of two.

The Grand Prix de Serre Chevalier was first held in 1986, when 80 people took part, running for three years until 1989 when it drew just 150 participants. But when the resort brought the Grand Prix back in 2017, 800 people took part – with last year’s event attracting 1501 skiers and snowboarders, a record for a ski race. Hence, Serre Chevalier is hoping for nearly 2000 participants this year and another record-breaking event.

To register and for more information, visit grandprix-serrechevalier.com

Later in March, Serre Chevalier will host another amateur ski race, the Trophée de Serre Chevalier from 28-30 March 2019. The race is expected to draw more than 600 participants, who will enjoy free entertainment from singer Charles Winston on the Friday night after a parallel slalom night session on the Luc Alphand track at Chantermerle, then a DJ set by Bob Sinclar on the Saturday.

For more details on the event and to enter, visit trophee-serrechevalier.com