A UK ski charity is offering the chance for skiers to be part of a new world record attempt on the slopes next winter, and raise money to fight cancer in the process.
Ski 4 Cancer's 'Everest Challenge' will see participants 'descend the height of Mount Everest (29,029ft) as one large group' on the slopes of Austria's new largest ski area, Saalbach, on Friday 11 March 2016.
The charity say that this is the first time such a world record has ever been attempted.
"We're looking for 500 skiers from across Europe who want to become world record holders!" said Andy Hayward, Trustee at Ski 4 Cancer, "In this unique event, skiers from lots of different countries will be united in one common cause – to raise funds to help fight cancer. Skiing the height of Mount Everest in one day will be a tough challenge though, even for more advanced skiers."
Mr Hayward says the plan is for a number of check-points and entertainment zones on the course to ensure the event is a lot of fun for participants.
The event is open to all competent skiers who think they can ski the nearly 9000 vertical metres in a day on Saalbach's slopes, served as they are by one of the world's most efficient high speed lift networks.
The Everest Challenge will be uploaded as a special contest on Map to Snow, one of the leading mobile phone apps for snowsports which will track individual participant's vertical skied.
There'll be prizes for individuals and teams who raise the most funds for the charity. Challengers will be joined by a number of high profile celebrities from the world of skiing and they'll be a massive party afterwards for all those who have taken part.
"We all know someone who has been affected by cancer… nearly 1,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer every day. So if you've yet to book your ski trip for this year, why not join us. Become a World Record holder and help people living with cancer at the same time," Andy concluded.
Ski 4 Cancer was set up by a group of keen skiers and snowboarders who have all lost a close relative or friend to cancer and provides a range of alpine respite holidays for families living with cancer. The charity also makes grants to palliative care centres and supports research into the positive effects of exercise and how it can both prevent cancer and assist in people's recovery post diagnosis.
To find our more or to register for the event, visit www.ski4cancer.org/everest-world-record