We sat down with the team over at Vermont Public Radio's "Wintry Mix" podcast to discuss this year's 24 Hours of Bolton backcountry ski and splitboard race - the first of its kind in New England.  You can listen to the interview below. We come in just after the ten minute mark for the second half of the interview (you can fast forward if you'd like, but the first half is equally rad!).

Bolton, VT - December 11, 2015 - Bolton Valley Resort has partnered with outdoor adventure company Native Endurance to host New England’s first 24-hour backcountry ski and splitboard race on March 19-20, 2016 to benefit Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports.  Competitors will test their stamina as they try to log as many vertical feet as possible in a 24-hour period on two challenging loops.

“We know this will be one of the most demanding and rewarding winter events of the year,” says Native Endurance race director RJ Thompson.  “We also know that not everyone wants to be outside for 24 hours straight, so we added the relay and 12-hour division to bring in more members of the backcountry community - and to make sure everyone is having fun.”

Jonathan Shefftz of the NE Rando Race Series echoed the event's unique appeal.  "It's the first ever anywhere in New England, and it's the only 24-hour up/down ski race in North America after the discontinuation many years ago of the very popular Sunlight, CO race."

Leading up to the race, competitors will be raising money for Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, a non-profit organization committed to empowering individuals with disabilities.  “100% of all fundraising is going directly to Vermont Adaptive,” Thompson said. “The organization does incredible work for amazing individuals, and we are humbled by their passion to ensure everyone can enjoy the great outdoors.”

Josh Arneson, VP of marketing and sales at Bolton Valley is looking forward to hosting the race.  "We've seen an increased interest in backcountry skiing over the past several years. This event will highlight, in a very unique way, the tremendous amount of backcountry terrain that Bolton has to offer."

Those interested in testing their legs (and lungs) can register at nativeendurance.com/bolton24.

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About Native Endurance:
Native Endurance’s mission is to offer unique outdoor experiences for beginners and experts looking to conquer their next summit or simply explore the mountains.  Located in Stowe, VT, Native Endurance provides guided backcountry tours, hikes and runs on the Long Trail, coaching services, and events designed to challenge the mind and body. Visitors in Stowe receive complimentary round-trip transportation to the trailhead and back when booking their tour.  More information can be found at www.nativeendurance.com or by calling 802-881-3284.

About Bolton Valley:
Bolton Valley was the first in Vermont and the second in the U.S. to implement wind power as an energy source and is the recipient of the National Ski Areas Association’s 2010 Silver Eagle Award for environmental initiatives. Approximately 100km of high elevation Nordic and backcountry terrain, a complete Sports Center and Indoor Amusement Center plus Vermont’s most extensive top-to-bottom night skiing and riding are just a few of the extras available to guests. All-inclusive, true ski-to-your-door lodging packages are from $57/person/night. For more information visit www.boltonvalley.com or call 877-9BOLTON.

About Vermont Adaptive:
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is the largest year-round disabled sports non-profit organization in Vermont offering the most diverse program opportunities and unique, specialized equipment. Vermont Adaptive promotes independence and furthers equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational opportunities including alpine skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports; kayaking, canoeing, sailing, cycling, hiking, rock climbing, tennis, horseback riding, and more.  More information can be found at www.vermontadaptive.org.