SIA Holds The UK’s First Ski-a-thon, On Real Snow, In Milton Keynes September 11, 2009

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On 12 September, the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) will hold the UK’s first ever ski-a-thon, on real snow, at the SNO!zone in the Xscape Milton Keynes. Sonic the Hedgehog will open the 12-hour event by leading the skiers and snowboarders in the first leg, down the indoor slope.

The event can take up to 45 teams of up to 6 people, over the age of 7. One team member has to be on the slope at all times, and teams are given the opportunity to switch skiers at hourly intervals. The endurance challenge itself, combined with a host of activities for supporters and shoppers, promises to make this a spectacular day for all.

The ski-a-thon team leader that raises the most sponsorship money wins a week’s stay for two (double bedroom), in January 2010, at Haus Kienreich B&B in a beautiful Austrian ski resort. This prize was kindly donated by owners James and Tracey Hinsby.

Also every team leader will be entered into a prize draw for a place on SIA’s Reach for the Peaks Ski Challenge, 4-7 Feb. It’s a ski hard and play hard, long weekend involving skiing or boarding down 35 peaks, in 48 hours, in Austria!

SIA is keen to encourage disabled skiers to join in. Participants will rub shoulders with sports stars of the future as the British Paralympics Development Squad has entered the challenge.

“Adaptive SnowSports MK will provide rides for the general public on their mono-skiing equipment, which is modified for disabled skiers. We want to spread the word among the able-bodied and those confined to wheelchairs that life does not have to stop if you become paralysed. This gives everyone the opportunity to experience the same thrill of hurtling down a slope, regardless of ability,” explained Gwen Pearson, head of fundraising for SIA.

There will be Nintendo Wii competitions upstairs, which are open to anyone who fancies their chances.

“It promises to be one of the most fun-packed fundraising 12 hours for spectators and skiers, to help us all make history with Britain’s first ski-a-thon. Retailers from within Xscape Milton Keynes have been invited to join in by contributing to goody bags for those in the ski-a-thon itself and by supporting entertainment events for everyone else throughout the day. Live acts will play in the retail area, showcasing local musical talent,” added Steven Gordon-Wilson, marketing and promotions manager for Xscape Milton Keynes.

If you would like to put together a team, join a team, or even volunteer an entertainment act, contact Sarah on s.tennent@spinal.co.uk or call 0845 6786633 ext 217.

Official Website: http://www.spinal.co.uk/ski.aspx