The Pain McShlonkey Classic (PMS), touted as the 'greatest ski competition known to man or woman', returns to Palisades Tahoe March 29th for its fourth straight year of action-packed events in a hilarious tribute to legendary skier Shane McConkey. New to this year's event is a Snowblade Ballet Competition.

From News Release...

[Olympic Valley, Calif.] March 20, 2014 - Witness the greatest ski competition known to man or woman! The Pain McShlonkey Classic (PMS) returns to Palisades Tahoe March 29. Now in its fourth year, this action packed on- and off-mountain event serves as a hilarious tribute to legendary skier Shane McConkey. On-mountain antics promise excitement and entertainment for all, as the world’s top winter athletes descend on Palisades Tahoe clad in ridiculous outfits and snowblades for what’s arguably the most anticipated spectacle of the winter.

Hosted by the Shane McConkey Foundation (SMF), the event is a highly successful fundraiser for local non-profits, with this year’s event benefitting Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District’s environmental education programs.

“Our goal is to inspire sustainable practices within our community and beyond,” said SMF Founder Sherry  McConkey. “In collaboration with Protect Our Winters, we’ve launched a nationally recognized Eco-Challenge and we’re really excited about proposals we’re working on with the Tahoe schools in 2014,” she added. “And the work we do with Make-A-Wish is priceless. Shane was a huge supporter of that program and he would be so proud of the wishes we’ve granted.”

The festivities begin Saturday, March 29 at 9 a.m. as athletes line up atop the legendary KT-22 chairlift for an all-out snowblade blitz. The pros will take on 30 amateurs in an anything-goes battle to the finish. In the spirit of the McConkey’s goofy style, this year’s contestants have been selected to compete by submitting their most awkward photo in an online contest.

New this year, spectators can gather to witness the inaugural Snowblade Ballet Competition. Registered PMS contestants will compete as couples or as individuals and spin, flip and prance their way into the hearts of spectators and judges during a one-minute ballet routine performed on snowblades. The judging panel will include former Ski Ballet competitor and legendary Tahoe local Troy Caldwell.

From 2-3 p.m., the PMS Costume Contest will take place at Squaw’s KT Base Bar. This contest is open to everyone with great prizes awarded for best dressed. Awards will follow directly. 

On Saturday night, the grand finale after party will feature a tribute to one of the most iconic rock bands of all time – Queen. Glam rock attire is encouraged. Guests must be 21 or older to attend with valid ID required. Tickets are available for purchase at www.shanemcconkey.org and Le Chamois. The party will be at the Palisades Tahoe Conference Center (Olympic Village Lodge).  Tickets do sell out, and advance purchase is recommended.

The Shane McConkey Foundation encourages skiers, riders and resorts around the world to celebrate the spirit of McConkey during this weekend.

“The best way to keep Shane's legacy alive is to remember to laugh at yourself and live life to the fullest,” says Sherry McConkey. “Even if you can’t be here on March 29, you should still do something outrageous and fun to honor this amazing man.”

For event details, registration information, after party tickets or to make a donation to the Shane McConkey Foundation, visit www.shanemcconkey.org.

Times and venues are subject to change pending weather and conditions.