Three years ago, members of the local Sunrise Rotary Club were furiously collecting old skis, removing the bindings, sanding down imperfections, drilling holes, and placing pieces of Velcro to hold plastic cups for Park City's first attempt at stealing the record for the world's longest shot ski from Breckenridge, Colorado. Despite the uncertainty about whether they could pull off an event of this magnitude during Park City's traditionally sleepy shoulder season, their team plowed ahead diligently, optimistic the community would rise (and raise their glasses) to the special occasion. It was, of course, a resounding success. With the 3rd Annual Park City Shot Ski on October 13 just around the corner, the event is now well on its way to becoming a seasonal staple. "We really strived to make this an annual event.  The main thing was to get the community support and this has far exceeded our expectations," says Connie Nelson, Fundraising Director for the Sunrise Rotary. If you've been looking for an excuse to party this shoulder season (or dress up in costume) this is your chance! 

Although the shot ski encourages us all to get out for a bit of fun and day drinking, the impetus behind the celebration is, of course, supporting our local non-profits. All the proceeds from the event go directly to the Sunrise Rotary's Grant Program, which benefits many of our dearest community organizations. Last year, the shot ski successfully raised $23,253 and funded groups like the Peace House, CONNECT Summit County, Children's Justice Center, EATS, and Moutainlands Community Housing, amongst many others. 

While the spirit of the event remains the same as previous years, the Sunrise Rotary continues to up the ante and veteran shot ski participants will notice a few key changes happening this year. Instead of beer from Wasatch Brewery, this year's shot ski is featuring whiskey for the first time. "High West came onboard early this year and we're thrilled to have them as a sponsor. We really appreciated Wasatch Brewery’s support the last two years," says Nelson. "We are also excited to try a new after-party format this year, expanding to five after-party hosts: Wasatch Brewery, High West Distillery, No Name Saloon, O’Shucks, and O.P. Rockwell. Each establishment will feature a specialty drink using High West's alcohol. Folks will receive a token upon registration to be used at one of the five after-parties for a free shot ski specialty drink. "Last year's record-breaking shot ski served up 1,250 people on 476 skis with a total length of 2,225 feet. This year, the Sunrise Rotary is hoping 1,275 people will join them on Main Street.  

Pulling off the shot ski might not be as complicated as it was the first year, but it doesn't mean the Sunrise Rotary is without challenges. "Weather is always an unpredictable factor; it snowed last year," says Nelson. "We've also learned not to panic; people sign up late. We are less than one month out and only have 319 of the 1,275 needed registered so far. But I think the fact that we sold out tickets both years says that the Park City community loves to support non-profits, loves to have a good time, and is game to try anything that involves fun and 1,275 people on a shot ski!"

A $25 ticket grants you an unreserved spot on the shot ski, a High West drink token at any participating shot ski after-party, and a souvenir shot glass. Corporate sponsorships ($500) and VIP tickets ($200) come with multiple spots on the shot ski, additional tokens, and other perks. Guest must be 21+ with a valid ID. For more information and to get your tickets, visit the shot ski website here. 

And don't forget to check out the video from last year: