The time has arrived to kick off the ski season in anticipation of the new high-speed quad chairlift at Purgatory Resort.
In anticipation of the new “Legends” lift opening Dec. 19, the Purgatory Freestyle Team got its hands on a copy of the new Warren Miller ski film “Chasing Shadows,” and will give the film its Durango debut Dec. 17 at Miller Middle School.
Attendees will have an opportunity to win door prizes, including a seat on the inaugural opening of the new Legends lift when it begins operation Dec. 19.
The event is a fundraiser for the Durango Winter Sports Foundation. Doors will open at 5 p.m., and the show is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Tickets for the movie are $15.
Last year’s film sold out, so purchasing an advanced ticket is highly recommended. Tickets are available through Purgatory Freestyle Team members, Second Avenue Sports and Ski Barn. Tickets also can be purchased at www.durangowintersports.org.
“This is the 16th anniversary of our ski teams bringing the film to Durango,” Purgatory Freestyle Team Program Director Kirk Rawles said. “It gives the Foundation a chance to kick off the new ski season and rally the local community together for the upcoming year.
“With the opportunity for one lucky local to win a seat on the grand opening of the Legends lift, it will prove to be a pretty fun night.”
Rawles said the event is typically followed by a good snowstorm, so he hopes the Durango ski community will continue the good vibes this year.
“I think everyone is excited this year to have the new quad Chair 8, and somebody is going to have the opportunity to be one of the first people on the very first chair,” he said.
Purgatory Resort has provided seats on the lift’s first eight chairs to local charities. In all, 32 seats were given away to charities, local ski legends and dignitaries, Rawles said.
“When you think about the diversity of terrain back there, it’s going to be really awesome to play over there all season with that new high-speed chair,” Rawles said. “The 19th is going to be a very exciting day.”
jlivingston@durangoherald.com
If you go
What: Warren Miller’s ‘Chasing Shadows’ ski film
When: 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17
Where: Miller Middle School, Durango
Cost: $15
More Info: Purchasing an advanced ticket is highly recommended. Tickets are available from Purgatory Freestyle Team members, Second Avenue Sports and Ski Barn. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.durangowintersports.org.
