The Race
April 8, 2006

A downhill ski race for all ages, of all abilities and skiing expertise the Schuss Boomer Downhill is one of but a handfull of surviving town downhill races left in Canada, now about to celebrate it's 22^nd running.

The idea of the Schuss Boomer was conceived 22 years ago as a form of recreational downhill race and fun day at Ski Smithers by a group of "then" employees. namely Jo Anne Maxwell, Gary (Gurner) Conway and Ed (Fast Eddy) Russell.

In the early days it was a one day event with participants encouraged to race in ungodly costumes or "L.J's" Long Johns, long underwear. Prizes were awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in all different age categories and 1st, 2nd and 3rd overall as well as a prize for the fastest radar speed, which was determined by an obliging RCMP Officer stationed at the end of the race course with a radar gun.

The race followed this format for a number of years and then the rules were relaxed to allow the use of downhill suits, which resulted in faster times and increased top speed.

After a few more years the race was changed to a two day event, with the emphasis on fun at the Saturday event, with costumes and teams of 3 racing to closes match of a pre-estimated time. This levelled the playing field and made it possible for anyone to win the race, regardless of skiing or racing ability.

We are back to a one day event but combining the fun race and the need for speed. Our event remains both a fun event and a serious event for those who feel the "Need for Speed". Come on out and challenge your spouse, your friends or yourself and have a fun weekend of skiing and general merriment and foolishness at Ski and Ride Smithers on April 8, 2006.