1st Annual Bob Aamodt, Inc. Vertical Challenge -- A Success

“What is a Vertical Challenge?” Simply, the team of 4 individuals who skis/snowboards the most vertical feet down the Strawberry run at Snowbasin in the 2 ½ hour period of time wins! Speed is not the secret. Endurance is the key! The winning team will receive a cash prize and bragging rights! While the Vertical Challenge could be viewed as a “race”, it isn’t! MORE THAN ANYTHING, the Vertical Challenge seeks to provide a FUN and exciting venue to mingle with friends and associates while benefiting the youth programs of the Trapper Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America.

The 1st Annual Bob Aamodt, Inc. Vertical Challenge was held at Snowbasin Resort on Friday, February 29, 2008. After months of planning, recruiting teams, and procuring prize items by a committee led by Bob Aamodt, Vertical Challenge Special Event Chair, the event was deemed a success!

About 60 Vertical Challenge participants were greeted at Snowbasin with a picture perfect day to ski to raise money for the Council’s many youth programs. A cool, yet clear morning turned into a perfectly sunny, warm day. After eating breakfast, and mingling with each other, participants found their skis and went to the lift to carry them up the hill. There was a friendly competition among the participants.

The vertical challenge was a success! Good times were had by all, and fundraising provided a solid foundation for next year. Success of the Vertical Challenge comes because of the high level of participation from several sources. The Vertical Challenge was overwhelmed with sponsors. Thank you! Thanks as well to the golf committee: Bob Aamodt (Chair), Andrea Abbot, and Dean Foust. The leadership they provided for the event was remarkably effective. Thanks as well to those Trapper Trails Council staff members that offered endless logistical support. Finally, thanks to those of you who came and skied.

The Vertical Challenge is going to be an annual event. The 2nd annual Vertical Challenge will be held at Snowbasin resort of February 27, 2009. Call the council office for details. You won’t want to miss out!

Josh Haacke