Snowbird, Utah – A new competition at Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort combines mountain running with rock climbing all in one timed event. The Beat the Heat speed climbing and mountain running competition is Sunday, July 18, 2004.

Beat the Heat will begin and end at Snowbird’s 110-foot climbing wall on the west side of the Cliff Lodge. The clock will start as competitors begin their ascent of the wall fitted with climbing holds. The climb will be rated at approximately 5.7 using the standardized route rating system. A split time will be given for ascent speed but the clock won’t stop until the competitor has reached the bottom of the wall, untied from the rope, removed their harness, changed shoes and run an approximately 1-mile mountain course that finishes back at the climbing wall.

"Snowbird has hosted climbing competitions in the past but Beat the Heat incorporates a new challenge that will reward all-around fitness, not just climbing skill," said John Collins, Snowbird’s Director of Mountain Activities. "It will be interesting to watch competitors try to tie their running shoes after climbing 110 feet in one or two minutes."

Beat the Heat will include four age divisions – 12 and under, 13-15, 16-18 and adult – for both men and women. Prizes will be awarded for first- through third-place finishers in each division. Beat the Heat, sponsored by Nordic Track, Black Diamond, The North Face and Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort, begins at 9 a.m. on Sunday, July 18.

Competitors must provide their own climbing harness and shoes.

Pre-register at the Snowbird Activity Center, Level 3, Snowbird Center, or register day-of by 8:30 a.m. at the Snowbird Climbing Wall. Take Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird Entry 4. Signs will direct competitors to the climbing wall. For more information, call the Snowbird Activity Center at (801) 933-2147 or go to www.snowbird.com.