IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – Anticipation builds as this year’s FIS Continental Cup ski jump competition at Pine Mountain approaches, just over a week away.
Despite concerns among fans about warm weather affecting the competition, the Kiwanis Ski Club assures us that the ski jump and landing area are fully prepared for the event next weekend. Eight countries are set to participate, with approximately 42 ski jumpers registered to compete. The action-packed weekend is scheduled to kick off on Friday the 23rd and extend through Sunday. However, eager fans will have the opportunity to meet the competitors for pictures and autographs at Pine Mountain Ski Resort on Thursday evening.
“The event will really kick off on Thursday night the 22nd at Pine Mountain resort with the ‘Meet the Jumpers’ event. To gain entry into the ski tournament, you’ll need a booster button, available at various locations throughout Dickinson County. Prices will increase by ten dollars at the gate,” informed Suzie Fox, the Kiwanis Ski Club’s corresponding secretary.
While there’s ample snow on the landing hill, warm weather poses unique challenges for parking. The club urges patience as attendees park and booths are set up during the events. To ease transportation concerns, a shuttle service is provided by Bay College for just $5, operating throughout Saturday and Sunday.
“We’re going to run the shuttle again from Bay College, on Saturday. I believe it starts at 10:00 in the morning and will run until about 5. So I think it’s like 10-1 to get you here, and I think 3-5 to get you back to your cars. It’s five dollars, but you get a coupon book worth $40. But don’t forget to tip your drivers because they do this somewhat out of the kindness of their hearts, and it’s greatly appreciated,” she explained.
“As you can see behind me, there’s plenty of snow on the landing hill, and we’re planning to make a bit more. So that’s not a problem. The tower utilizes a ceramic track filled with slush, and we typically create rows in the parking lot from snowbanks. However, fire containment remains a concern; the current grass field lacks a sufficient snow base,” noted Fox, adding “Keep it contained, keep it small, don’t get out of control, and you can still have a great time.”
Children aged ten and under enjoy free admission to the tournament, ensuring an inclusive and exciting experience for all. $11-17 are $20 and 18 & up are $30, and the best way to secure deals on buttons is to get them early.
The Kiwanis Ski Club is extremely appreciative of the sponsors who make the event so great year after year.
“So we could not put on this event without the sponsors or our ski jumping fans that purchase these booster buttons. And the sponsors have been coming back year after year. As you can see we have a new big banner up on the hill, Bacco upgraded its sponsorship. Marshfield Clinic Health System, Dickinson, is our title sponsor again this year, and we’re thrilled to have them. And you don’t necessarily have to be a title sponsor to make an impact,” Fox mentioned.
