December 28, 2006 – Racers are gearing up for this year’s Second Annual 24 Hours of Sunlight – an endurance race challenging teams of all ages and abilities. The race consists of vertical laps where teams hike up and ski or board down for a 24 hour period. The event takes place at Sunlight Mountain Resort in Glenwood Springs, CO on February 3-4, 2007.

Although this is a timed event, the race can be as challenging or relaxed as your team allows. Racers share a common enthusiasm for the fun environment and relaxed competition this type of structure provides. Unlike other gender separated mountaineering competitions, women and men are competing on a level playing field with women often setting new records in the process.

Last year’s solo winner, Polly Samuels-McLean set a world record for the most human-powered vertical feet skied by a woman in 24 hours, with 31,110 feet, exceeding the snowboard world record set by Jonathan Baker of 20,215 feet. “I would come back and do it again. Usually, right after, I would have to think about it, but it was really well run, and there was a great turnout,” said Samuels-McLean, “The fastest guys in the U.S. and Canada showed up for it. These guys that are the top-5 solo men. It was really super.”

Women have been actively mountaineering for decades and this challenge gives them a great opportunity to compete with some of the best in the field, both men and women. “I really encourage more women to sign up for this event. It challenges you mentally, physically and spiritually but it’s also really fun. It is a great way to meet other women who share the same interests. You can go to compete or just to get out with your friends and break your own personal best record,” says Amy Forsey, a Basalt business owner who will be competing in the race in the “Just for Fun” category.

Teams that register before midnight on December 31st of 2006 receive a $25 discount per entrant as well as entry to win an Alpine Touring Package, valued at $2,000, from Ute City Cycles. Log on to www.24hoursofsunlight.com to register now.