LINCOLN, New Hampshire ??” Loon Mountain hosted its annual pond-skimming competition under sunny skies with temperatures in the 50s on Saturday. This rite of spring marks the end of winter and, this year, signals that there’s just one more week of skiing and riding before Loon Mountain closes for the season. Although there were many fool-hearty volunteers, registration was limited to 75 brave contestants who took their shot at gliding across Loon’s 100-foot long manmade pond of water.

“This is truly one of the most anticipated events of the season” said Matt Hesser, Event Manager at Loon. “The Slush Pool Party always draws one of the biggest crowds of the year, because the spills can be quite awesome.”

Saturday’s thrills and spills lived up to all the hype. Hundreds of spectators looked on as participants provided some entertaining splashes, trips, and flips. While some did manage to make it completely across, most found their fate submerged in the chilling pool. Doug Hillman, 43, of Whitefield, NH, was one of many to give the pond a skim.

“I have been doing this on-and-off for the past 10 years,” said Doug. “It’s without a doubt one of the best days of the year. I wouldn’t miss it. I also want to thank Loon for the use of the rental boots.”

The season wrap-up provided some additional chills as ten brave young competitors jumped into the pool in hopes of retrieving one bowling pin with a $1000 gift certificate toward a hot tub at Northern Pool and Spa. Maura Cosman, 10, from Sharon, MA, was able to dive her way to the correct pin and will now enjoy the soothing warm waters of her new hot tub.

The apr??s pond-skimming party, sponsored by Coors Light and Hooters, in Loon’s Paul Bunyan Room featured a hot wing eating contest and the live music of the Slush Puppies.

For more information, call 1-800-229-LOON (5666) or visit www.loonmtn.com.