Lovers of snow and speed get ready: The Dirksen Derby rally race is carving its way back to Mt. Bachelor this winter for its 17th year, promising thrills, camaraderie and high-speed action. The celebrated event unites snowboarders and sit-ski enthusiasts of all ages and abilities for a weekend of exciting races and community spirit. Participants will navigate tight turns and steep descents on hand-crafted slalom courses, all set against Mt. Bachelor’s alpine backdrop.
The Dirsken Derby has come a long way since its first race on Dec. 1, 2007. What began with just 58 racers and three divisions has grown into a beloved annual tradition. The inaugural event raised $1,160 for Tyler Eklund, a local snowboarder who was seriously injured in a competition eight months earlier. Today, the derby is a cornerstone of the snow sports calendar, raising over $300,000 last year for nonprofits and community members in need.
This year’s Dirksen Derby takes place on Saturday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 22, from 9am to 4pm. The event invites everyone, from seasoned pros to the youngest “groms,” to test their skills on the same challenging course.
“The Dirksen Derby has become a staple season kickoff for the snow sports community,” said Presley Quon, communications manager at Mt. Bachelor. “This will be Mt. Bachelor’s 17th year hosting the event. Recent snowfall is setting the stage for a great course this year. Riders and spectators alike are in for a fun weekend.”
Racers are divided into heats on Saturday and Sunday, with categories like “Mini-Shred,” “Older & Wiser,” “Yogis” and “Elite Legends.” Last year’s event featured 16 racing events and over 5,000 competitors.
Beyond the races, the Dirksen Derby weekend is packed with festivities. On Thursday, Dec. 19, the fun begins at Tactics in downtown Bend with a kickoff party, where participants can pick up posters and design their own T-shirts. On Friday, Dec. 20, the highly anticipated snowboarding film, “Papsura: Peak of Evil,” will premiere at the Volcanic Theatre Pub. Throughout the weekend, Patagonia’s Worn Wear program will be on-site at Mt. Bachelor, offering free clothing repairs to keep snow lovers warm and sustainable on the slopes.
This article appears in Source Weekly December 19, 2024.
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