The continuous snowfall of March and April this year left organizers with the challenge of picking a date for the crossing based on when the snow might melt. The crossing had originally been scheduled for late April, based on previous season's dates. However, at the end of April, the entire lower mountain area was still snowbound (much to skiers' delight) and the event was pushed back for the first of what would become several times.

Today, even as thunderstorms loom, Palisades Tahoe staffers are prepping for the long anticipated event.

"Over the years the weather has always been a factor," commented Eric Brandt, former marketing director and one of the event's announcers. "It's been held in early April and all the way to Memorial Day...but it's always happened."

Hundreds of spectators, men and women, are expected to show up to watch up to 50 competitors, donned in all manner of costumes, attempt to cross the frigid waters. A panel of judges scores each competitor on flare, distance, and degree of difficulty. Those who cross the pond receive an extra 25 point bonus.

In recent years, with the advent of fatter skis, the actual crossing has gotten easier, making the weight on scoring for costume and flare a bigger factor.

"Its pretty easy to get across if you just point 'em straight," says Todd Wold, an annual entrant. "But when you try to do a trick or something funny, it really adds to the challenge."

Registration for the event will start at noon today, with the crossing beginning at around 2 pm. Spectators are free, and food and drink will be available.