The Mt. Bachelor Big Wave Challenge is about surfing a snowboard through a unique and special course built specifically for this event.

Each rider will be judged on creative choice of lines through the features, degree of difficulty of individual maneuvers and overall style & flow through the run.

The Big Wave Challenge is a one of a kind, surfing the snow happening that is sure to be fun and exciting whether one is a contestant or a spectator.

Mt Bachelor holds this one-of-a-kind event inspired by none other than legendary surfer and Mt. Bachelor Ambassador, Gerry Lopez - who is our event host! This snowboard only event will be held in the Events Arena under the Pine Marten Express lift. A series of huge sweeping banked corners, quarter pipes and spines will be shaped into wave-like features for a flowing course bringing the surf to the mountain. Riders will be judged on the same elements as a Big Wave surf competition; control, speed and power. Each person will get one run during the initial qualifying round. The top competitors from each category will advance Semi-Final and Final rounds.

$25 competitor entry fee. Online pre-registration is manadatory with participation limited to the first 200 entrants.

The Big Kahuna's in both the male and female divisions will win a custom Gerry Lopez Surfboard!  Prizes for runners-up include

Maui Jim Sunglasses and Patagonia wetsuits. Many other prizes to be raffled, and ALL participants receive FREE Volcom socks!

The Big Wave Challenge will be followed by a Luau ($10 all ages) in the Clearing Rock featuring traditional luau cuisine along with live music featuring Bend's local Hawaiian musician, Bill Keale. Spread the aloha love and come dressed in luau attire!! Luau menu: Spam mac & cheese, fried rice, Hawaiian slaw, fruit trays, pulled pork, Thai short ribs, potato salad and more.
The Pine Marten Express lift will remain open for the competition and public skiing & boarding until 5:00pm - three hours later than the regular closing time!

Divisions

    Open Class Men's Division
    Open Class Women's Division
    Best Grom prize will be awarded
    "Old Dog" Division

Tentative Schedule

    Morning - Event Registration or Pre-registrationg check in at West Village Lodge (lower level)
    Mid-morning - Rider's Meeting and Big Wave Challenge Competition start
    Mid-afternoon - Expected finish time
    11:00 - 5:00 Luau with live music by Bill Keale. Luau 11am-3pm $10 per person, all ages. Menu includes: Spam mac & cheese, fried rice, Hawaiian slaw, fruit trays, pulled pork, Thai short ribs, potato salad and more.

"On May 12, the surf's up at Mt. Bachelor!" - Gerry Lopez, Big Wave Challenge host and surfing legend.