Area skiers and snowboarders are gearing up for the 8th annual CPHS “Ski for the Animals” at Blue Knob All-Seasons Resort. The two-day event will be held February 25th and 26th with proceeds  benefiting  homeless animals at the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society’s shelter in Altoona.

A special “Ski-a-thon” is currently underway with skiers & snowboarders collecting pledges and vying for prizes for the top fundraisers. The Grand Prize this year will be a choice of either a 2-night stay in a luxury condo at Blue Knob or a season lift pass. Both prizes have been donated by Blue Knob All-Seasons Resort, a prime sponsor of the campaign along with Spokes n’ Skis (Lakemont).

To take part in the ski-a-thon event, participants collect pledges from friends, family, co-workers, neighbors and animal lovers to contribute money  used in helping homeless animals at the shelter.

Pledge forms along with rules can be picked up at Blue Knob, the CPHS shelter location in Altoona (1837 E. Pleasant Valley Blvd.), at local ski/sport shops such as Spokes n Skis (Lakemont) or from Veterinary offices. All pledges must be turned in during the weekend of events at Blue Knob with 4pm Sunday (February 26th) as the deadline.

All those who raise $20 or more in pledges will receive a special, limited edition “Ski for the Animals” T-shirt. Other prizes, such as lift tickets, restaurant gift certificates and sports equipment will be drawn at random and awarded to those collecting donations.

Among the events to be held over the weekend:

• Celebrity Obstacle Course: A fun race by some favorite local media personalities! It’s a great chance to see celebrities at their best (or worst!J) on the slopes. The fun starts Saturday day at 1:00 p.m. at the top of the mountain just outside the rental shack. (not necessary to ski in order to watch the fun!)
• Race for the Animals:  A timed downhill ski race on a Nastar Course held Saturday from 2:00 p.m until 4 p.m. This popular event awards medals to winners in various age groups. Last year dozens of racers took part in this fun race for personal achievement and “bragging rights.” For just $5.00, contestants get two timed runs. Participants must pre-register (by 1:00p.m.) to compete.
• “The Great Snow Shovel Race”- A fast and furious ride down a “slippery slope” with the quickest riders winning a trophy or plaque. Past races have offered lots of spills and thrills….and, best of all, no experience is needed!!!J Entry fee is $5.00. Race will be held Sunday, February 26th at 1:00 p.m. Contestants must pre-register.

Participants in all events should visit the CPHS table located in the Summit Lodge near the ticket sales window to register at anytime throughout the weekend.

“Ski for the Animals 2006” is made possible through the generous support of  major sponsors Blue Knob Resort , Spokes N Skis,  Lee Industries, DeGol Organization, Auto Wholesalers, Serbin, Kovacs & Nypaver, Attys., The Winds at Mattern Orchard, Saleme Insurance, Allegheny Orthotics and Prosthetics, Mid-State Trailer Rental, Altoona Emergency Wrecker Service, Ellis Office Supply, Thomas M. Dickey, V.I.P. Pet/Aquarium, Dave’s Sports Collectibles, and Swan’s Trophies Plus.

In addition to the competitive events, organizers will hold a special raffle with  major prizes up for grabs. The first place winner will choose from either new skiis or a ski board (courtesy “Spokes N Skis”) valued at up to  $600……or a Blue Knob season lift ticket. Other items include dining gift certificates, ski and sport equipment and other merchandise/services.

Raffle tickets ($5.00 each or 3 for $10.00) are now on sale and can be bought at Spokes n Skis, the CPHS shelter office and several other locations (call 942-2477 for info).

For more information on the event, call Dave Hopkins, CPHS at (814) 942-2477 or check with local ski clubs….or Blue Knob resort (814) 239-5111.