Spring is in full swing here in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Balmy temperatures have people pulling out their bikes and boats, but don’t put your skis away quite yet! Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is open until April 5, and there is still time to register for the 40th annual Pole Pedal Paddle March 28th, 2015. The Pole Pedal Paddle, aka the PPP, is a Jackson Hole tradition where individuals or teams compete in a four-event race consisting of an alpine ski leg, a cross-country ski leg, a bike leg and a boating leg. This year the cross-country leg has been swapped for a 5k run due to current snow conditions.
Wait a second, who would do such a thing? That was the question that crossed my mind when I first heard about the event, but there is a class and category for anyone who wants to participate and you can be as competitive or relaxed as you want. I have competed in the “Fun Class” the last two years, where pretty much anything goes. Costumes, tandem bikes and party rafts are all highly encouraged because you are not judged on your time, but rather how much fun you are having. The competitive class on the other hand, is just that, competitive. Jackson is home to many top athletes and winning the PPP is the ultimate victory and grounds for bragging rights. Last year the fastest time was 2:15:34 (Men’s Racing Team), my team in the Fun Class was not timed, but I’m guessing we finished well over five hours and that might even be generous, but we had fun!
Even if competing is not your thing, the PPP is a fun community event you should come out and support. I know I appreciated the cheers and car honks as I biked from Teton Village to South Park in bright spandex and a tutu. With the race starting on the mountain at JHMR and finishing in the Snake River Canyon there are plenty of opportunities to cheer on competitors throughout the valley.
For more information on this local event, or to register visit the PPP web page. All proceeds support the Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club, a nonprofit organization providing affordable ski/snowboard programs to Jackson youth.