Behind-the-Scenes: Dirksen Derby 17
The 17th Annual Dirksen Derby will kick off this Saturday, December 21st. As one of the annual signature events at the mountain and in the PNW, the Dirksen Derby features a race-style format with a technical Parallel Banked Slalom course that emphasizes consistency and punishes even the smallest mistakes. While most snowboard competitions are often seen as subjective, based on style and technique, the Derby is the opposite, where the winner earns bragging rights for posting the fastest time on the course. The event includes two distinct courses: the Red Course, which follows the mountain's natural fall line and is traditionally faster, and the Green Course, a flow course with longer traverses that require riders to maintain speed throughout.
History
Back for its 17th year, the Dirksen Derby Snowboard Rally Race first took place at Mt. Bachelor, on December 1, 2007. With 58 racers across 3 divisions, the inaugural event raised $1,160 for local snowboarder Tyler Eklund, who had been seriously injured at the USASA Snowboard Nationals in California eight months earlier. 17 years later, the Dirksen Derby has grown to attract over 5,000 participants and has raised more than $300,000, benefiting various non-profits and individuals in need within the community.
Build
Building the Derby course is a challenging undertaking. The Parallel Banked Slalom courses are 100% hand-dug and take roughly 5-6 days to complete. The build involves a core team of 5-15 people, including a dedicated crew working throughout the week, alongside enthusiastic local volunteers who pitch in whenever possible. Each year the course changes location around the mountain based on conditions, snowpack, and open terrain. Although the Derby team, alongside our Events Crew, hand-picks where the Derby will take place, Mother Nature plays a big part in choosing the structure and location, as it throws in many variables to the build process. This year, the crew is working with plenty of snow and a 70"+ base depth. They've also been battling through blizzard conditions, cold temps, and high winds as they buff out the banked slaloms and prepare for the event.
This Year
This year's event will take place in Family Cross at the bottom of “Lower Flying Dutchman’s,” nestled between the Rainbow and Cloudchaser chairlifts. We are excited to host a diverse range of participants, with event categories designed to showcase the talents of snowboarders, splitboarders, and sit-ski riders. This year’s competition will feature athletes of all ages and skill levels, highlighting a wide array of backgrounds and experiences. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the slopes, there will be something for everyone. It promises to be an inclusive and exhilarating celebration of winter sports, bringing together passionate riders of all kinds to enjoy the thrill of the mountain.