Carrelli and Olenick Win Aspen Thanksjibbing Jam

ASPEN/SNOWMASS, CO – (News Release – Nov. 24, 2007) – Snowboarder Derrin Carrelli from Strongsville,Ohio, and skier Peter Olenick from Carbondale, Colorado, both walked away with $500 cash and bragging rights at the Thanksjibbing jam on Saturday, Nov. 24, at the base of Aspen Mountain. Carrelli out-dueled 16 other riders to take the snowboard title and Olenick battled and won over 16 skiers.

Aspen/Snowmass Team Athletes Mitch Reed from Basalt, Colorado, and Matt Walker from Aspen, Colorado, both took home $250 for second place in snowboarding and skiing, respectively. Snowboarder Colin Tucker from Steamboat, Colorado and skier Nate Berkel from Aspen took home $100 for third.

The Aspen/Snowmass terrain park crew createdboxes, rails and other features, leaving athletes endless opportunities to jib. A crowd of over 700 gathered under the lights in while local DJ Naka G kept the crowd pumped up with his mighty talent of spinning the latest tunes. The party officially started with après entertainment at 3 p.m., Beer Garden on Upper Gondola Plaza and House of Bounce in Lower Gondola Plaza as well as fire pits throughout to keep the crowds warm.

The event consisted of two 30-minute jam sessions. In the first, 17 skiers hit the features trying to top one another with each run. Following the ski competition, the clock was reset for another 30 minutes as the snowboarders took center stage. Over $1,700 was awarded to the winners from both disciplines.

Aspen Mountain and Snowmass opened for the season Thursday, Nov. 22. Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk open on Dec. 8. The Thanksjibbing park will be opening for the public starting Tuesday, Nov. 27.