(GOVERNMENT CAMP) — More than 200 young skiers from Oregon and
Washington will compete in four different ski events in the Oregon 4-Way
Championship to be held Feb. 6 to 8 at Mt. Hood Skibowl.

The event is hosted by the Mt. Hood Race Team with sponsorship support
from Legacy Mt. Hood Medical Center.

During the three day competition, 9-to-13-year-old skiers from across the
northwest will compete in both alpine and Nordic events, including slalom,
giant slalom, classic cross country and ski jumping.

"It’s exceptionally fun for the kids because they compete in four different
events and that brings a different energy to the entire competition," said Bill
Gunesch, director of Mt. Hood Ski Education Foundation. "Generally our racers
compete only in the traditional alpine events of slalom and giant slalom. The
4-Way includes the Nordic events of classic cross country and jumping."

These types of 4-way events were once more common than they are now.

"The Oregon 4-Way Championship dates back to 1968 and is the most talked
about Mitey Mite competition held on Mt. Hood each year," Gunesch said. "It
is a popular event that is steeped in tradition and is important to our young
racers and to the skiing community."

During recent training many of the racers will make their first attempt at
jumping, assuring an exciting event for all to watch. For more info visit:
www.mthoodacademy.com.