With typical midseason February weather in the forecast, organizers reported that spectators flocked to the Johnsville Historic Ski Bowl to watch the longboard races Feb. 18. This event celebrating the history of skiing is presented by the Plumas Ski Club and features contestants racing on handmade 9-plus-foot wooden skis while dressed in 1860-style clothing and leather boots. Inspiration comes from the fact that the sport of downhill skiing in the Western Hemisphere started in Onion Valley, between Quincy and La Porte.
After competitors hike up the hill carrying their skis, race officiants signal the start of each two-person race. Judgement at the finish line is provided by “capable, reliable and keen-eyed” members of local fraternal organization E. Clampus Vitus, said Plumas Ski Club volunteer Lisa Kelly.
Typically the second of the annual Historic Longboard Race Revival Series, the February event was the first of two competitions for this year. “The January race was canceled due to precarious skiing
conditions, but February brought a nice surprise!” said Kelly. “The course was groomed to perfection and thanks to the many willing volunteers, the lodge deck was shoveled off, the snack shack was constructed and goods and services were readied for the raucous longboard fans and supporters.”
Race winners were as follows:
Women’s races
- First place: Abby “Calamity Abby” Marshall
- Second place: Mary “The Trapper” Bautista
- Third place: Kiana “Splitskiki” Bohm
Men’s races
- First place: Adam “The Interloper” Henriquez
- Second place: Eli “Just Eli” Osborne
- Third place: Greg “Slickbottom” Hinds
Hinds is also the Plumas Ski Club’s new president, and he was participating in his first longboard race as president.
Kelly pointed out that a team of partners, supporters and volunteers makes these events possible. Vendors provided food and beverages. The Quincy Junior-Senior High School ski team served up cookies and hot chocolate. The lodge was adorned with photos and articles celebrating the rich history of longboard racing and downhill skiing.
The World Championship longboard races are set for March 17, conditions permitting. For event updates, information on Plumas Ski Club membership and to volunteer, visit http://www.plumasskiclub.org. The Johnsville Historic Ski Bowl is located above the town of Johnsville, in Plumas-Eureka State Park.
Information submitted by Plumas Ski Club