Where to Ski And Snowboard - Ski 4 Cancer challenge in 3 Valleys

Ski 4 Cancer challenge in 3 Valleys

4th February 2013, by Abi Butcher

The Ski 4 Cancer event takes place 20 and 21 March in La Tania

Skiers are being challenged to ski the vertical equivalent of Mont Blanc or Everest in March to raise money for a new cancer charity.

The Ski 4 Cancer challenge, for individuals or teams of skiers, will be staged in La Tania in the Three Valleys on 20 and 21 March.

Skiers and snowboarders will be challenged to ski either the vertical height of Mont Blanc (4,807m) or Everest (8,848m) in just one day — focusing on the green, blue or red pistes which run adjacent to La Tania’s main gondola.

Each run gives a vertical drop of 532m, so skiers will need to do ski the loop nine times if they’re aiming to “ski Mont Blanc” or 17 times if they are attempting the equivalent height of Everest. Organisers expect intermediates to complete the Mont Blanc challenge in around three hours, and six for the Everest attempt.

Ski 4 Cancer was set up in 2012 by a group of keen skiers and snowboarders who have all lost a close relative or friend to cancer. By providing a rage of alpine respite holidays for British families living with cancer, the charity gives families something to look forward to at the end of treatment schedules or after a loved one has died. Ski 4 Cancer also makes grants to palliative care centres and funds research into the positive effects of exercise and how it can both prevent cancer and assist in people’s recovery post diagnosis.

James Hardiman, of Alpine Elements and iGOSKI, which are sponsoring the event, said: “Everyone is welcome to take part and we hope skiers from all over the Three Valleys will join us. If you’re skiing in neighbouring resorts like Meribel and Courchevel, it would be great to see you. The event is open to anyone — all you need is a valid Three Valleys ski pass.”

Ski 4 Cancer starts at 9am on both days, and to take part skiers are asked to donate a minimum of €10 to Ski 4 Cancer. Participants can register online beforehand at ski4cancer.org/ski-challenge or on the day at the reception of Hotel Montana at the bottom of the main gondola lift.