SnoFest ’08 best so far

Published April 1, 2008
By Margie Arnold
21st Services Squadron

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Yes, it's April and golfers are returning in droves to the golf course, but organizers for SnoFest are already scheduling meetings and making plans for next year's winter sports event. But how can you top SnoFest '08, which was dubbed by many as "the best SnoFest ever?"

SnoFest, which started 18 years ago as a one-day experiment by marketing departments of Front Range military installations, mushroomed into a three-day weekend of superb ski and snowboard races, a popular cardboard derby and evening parties. It was held January 25-27 at Keystone Resort, one of the many winter resorts that dot the Rocky Mountain landscape.

Dan Schofield, 21st Services Squadron deputy director, took the lead as the 'Snow King' in SnoFest '08 planning. He and his team of committee chiefs, workers and volunteers from the participating military installations have developed SnoFest into one of the premier winter events for the military.

"The efficiency and success for each of the activities, from our hospitality tent and NASTAR races to the cardboard derby and both evening parties, couldn't have been possible without our dedicated folks," said Mr. Schofield. "Overall, there were very few bumps along the road. I was very happy to oversee the event and seeing everything come together as it did provided a great sense of accomplishment for us all."

Approximately 3,400 servicemembers and their families attended. Included were about 20 disabled veterans who have lost limbs or who were severely injured fighting the Global War on Terrorism and serving their country. "Having Adaptive Adventures participate was a highlight for this year's SnoFest," said Mr. Schofield.

Highlights of the weekend also included the appearance of the Air Force's expeditionary entertainment group, Tops in Blue, who performed a dazzling musical tribute to the Air Force's 60-year history Jan. 25, and a live performance by the Air Force band Pegasus Jan. 26. And, it helped that Keystone Resort was blessed with record snowfall.

For information on how you can be part of next year's SnoFest, call Warren Schroeder at 556-7874.

Sky high flyer