If you want to have some unique winter fun, come to the world championship longboard ski races Sunday, March 18 at Ski Gold Mountain. Step back in time, and watch folks race 10- to 16-foot wooden skis, as done in the 1870s. The event recreates the pioneer days, and racers and spectators are asked to come dressed in outfits from the 1870s.

Fun prizes will be given for the best crashes and the best outfits, and top racers will receive awards.

The Wild Turkey Lickers will provide live music beginning around noon.

Organizers are anticipating about 50 racers to compete in this third and final event of the season, depending on the weather.

Registration and practice runs begin around 9:30 and registration closes at 11:30, rather than 12. A history of longboard racing and other festivities start about 11. The use of club skis are first come, first served.

Over 40 pairs of new longboards have been built in the past several years, thanks to a longboard construction class at Feather River College, taught by Pete Bartels. Many younger "shoers" have become involved in longboard racing because of the class.

In the last races held Feb. 18, a good crowd came despite snowy weather. Twenty-four racers competed on a slow, sticky course.

In the women's division, Sue Jackson (first place) beat Sue McCourt (second place) for the first time, and Ansley Rothell took third.

Phil Gallagher won the men's competition again. Brad Baugher, the son of Chris "Rattlesnake" Baugher, captured second place in only his second ever longboard race.

Bartels beat "Radical Radkey" to secure third place and race in the finals.

Newcomer Don Homer from Whitehawk Ranch, with an enthusiastic group of followers, also did great.

For more information, see the club web page at www.plumasskiclub.org.