Breckenridge opens this Friday, Nov. 15

BRECKENRIDGE, Colo., Nov. 12, 2002, Breckenridge will be the fifth Colorado ski resort to fire up the lifts when it opens for the 2002-2003 season this Friday, Nov. 15 at 8:30 a.m. Here are the top five reasons to be the first person on the lifts to celebrate:

1. Peak 7 expansion is the No. 1 reason to ski or ride Breckenridge all season.

The opening of Breckenridge’s Peak 7 will highlight the more than $12 million in capitol improvements for the 2002-2003 season. The new high-speed six-passenger Independence SuperChair on Peak 7 opens up 165 acres of intermediate terrain, including seven new trails and the famous Peak 7 glades. The grand opening of Peak 7 is scheduled for mid-December.

A tribute to Breckenridge’s colorful history, the new trails and lift represent mining themes including; Angel’s Rest, Wild Dog, Fort Mary B., Swan City, Lincoln Meadows, Pioneer, Wirepatch and of course Independence which was the original name for the Breckenridge area. The expansion adds 30 percent more intermediate terrain and increases total acreage to 2,208.

2. Double-diamond terrain on Opening Day

Skiers and riders who venture to Breckenridge opening day will find powder conditions complete with face shots. This past weekend’s storm dumped nearly three feet of snow on Breckenridge with more predicted to fall this week. More than 45 inches of snow has fallen since Nov. 1, creating a 34-inch settled natural snow base at mid-mountain markers with more snow at higher elevations. Low temperatures in October and November also have allowed the resort to have the best snowmaking season in recent history.

On opening day, QuickSilver Super6 and Beaver Run SuperChair lifts will be operating to take skiers and riders down well over 500 acres of terrain on Peak 9, including double-diamond terrain. On opening day, more than 20 percent of the mountain will be open to guests.

“The more than 30 inches of snow we’ve received this past weekend means skiers and riders will find powder conditions at Breckenridge this Friday,” said Roger McCarthy, chief operating officer for Breckenridge and Keystone ski resorts. “The significant snowfall combined with the amazing snowmaking season allows us to offer the most terrain available on opening day ever.”

3. All Opening Day lift ticket proceeds benefit charity

This season, Breckenridge Ski Resort will continue its tradition of donating all opening day lift ticket proceeds to local charities. When someone purchases a lift ticket opening day, proceeds will go to the Summit County Community Care Clinic, Family and Cultural Resort Center and Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center. In past years, local charities have received more than $5,000 from opening day proceeds. Tickets on opening day are $49 for adults and $29 for children 12 and under. Guests who purchase single day tickets should also sign up for the PEAKS program to save money at the resort throughout the season.

4. First resort to open where skiers and riders can celebrate after the lifts close

Prolong the excitement of an epic opening day — Breckenridge is the first resort to open in ski country that offers more than just great terrain. After the lifts close, everyone on the mountain can take the good vibes into town and celebrate the first day of the season at nearly 100 restaurants and bars in town. Apres-ski options run the gamut from relaxing dinners at local restaurants to raging nights in techno lounges.

5. A Friday Opening means a three-day ski weekend

Find out what Summit County locals already know¡Xnothing beats skiing on a weekday. Skiers and riders who take advantage of opening day can get also take advantage of the unbelievable early season lodging deals and triple their amount of vertical by skiing or riding Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Call 800-800-STAY for lodging deals for opening weekend.

Breckenridge is part of Vail Resorts Inc (NYSE: MTN). For information on Breckenridge, visit www.breckenridge.com or call (9770) 453-5000.
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