The snow-kissed slopes of the Chilkat Valley await the eminent arrival of the Freeride World Tour, promising not only thrilling big-terrain snow sports but also a significant economic boon during the otherwise calm heli-ski season. However, Haines Borough finds itself at a juncture, searching fervently for sponsors to cover the unexpected overflow of expenses tied to this high-profile event.
A “Dream Stop” for Ski Enthusiasts
The Freeride World Tour has marked Haines as a prestigious “dream stop” on its global itinerary—an accolade set to usher in waves of visitors, and by extension, a flurry of local business activities. Local businesses, staffing snowy ranges and eateries alike, eagerly anticipate the crowd’s arrival. Terry Davis at Fogcutter bar notes, “Those guys spend a lot,” forecasting a much-needed economic lift during these slow months of the year.
Rising Costs and Community Sponsorship
Yet, this much-anticipated event doesn’t come without expense. Originally, the borough allocated an enthusiastic \(75,000 to sponsor the Tour, but the affordable commitment soon swelled beyond initial expectations. Borough officials now account for an additional \)25,000 in operational costs, earmarked to cover a gamut of event add-ons including a dinner welcome and logistical essentials like transportation for personnel and guests.
In a hope-driven discussion to bridge this financial gap, Haines Borough Manager Alekka Fullerton spoke of the necessity to source further sponsorship from local entities. As stated in Chilkat Valley News, potential sponsors could defray costs by subsidizing transport or hosting facilities.
The Stakes for Local Prosperity
County tourism director Reba Hylton, determined to lighten the financial load, expressed her optimism: “I’m confident we’ll receive support,” she conveyed, though the journey to quantify this aid remains ongoing. Financial officer Jila Stuart aids this pursuit, highlighting that any unmet financial needs will require a borough budget amendment.
This strategic sponsorship outreach reflects not only fiscal responsibility but an investment in Haines’ tourism ambitions—an economic boost that stands to amplify the valley’s profile as a winter sports haven.
A Calculated Risk
This nine-day ski spectacle promises exhilarating action, albeit weather-dependent. With one firm competition day planned amidst a window allowing for weather-related contingencies, expectations remain high. As local heli-skiing operator Sean Brownell assures, the likelihood of favorable conditions during the tour stands sturdy.
As Haines prepares to embrace the influx, the community collectively looks to rally around this transformative event. The borough features prominently in branding and promotional material—not merely as investors, but as enthusiastic custodians of an opportunity fated to elevate their local economic lexicon for years to come.
