When I was a kid, our family apres time oft consisted of a cracking fire, bubbling hot chili and our tiny ski home television tuned in to Wide World of Sports. We’d watch all our heroes – the Mahre Brothers, Jean-Claude Killy and more – careening down challenging race trails.

It usually came after a day of us racing one another on our home mountain’s NASTAR course. Gosh, was it magical.

Want to add some of that tun to your family life? Sign up for the Vertical Challenge, a handicapped (aka: doable for just about all level skiers and riders), exciting and totally free race that makes visit to ski areas across the nation.

Do well in your age and level group and you could just find yourself qualifying for championships. But even if you don’t, fun races like the Vertical Challenge are a great way to bond with family and friends, amp up your ski day excitement and even make you a stronger, better and safer skier.

The Vertical Challenge is a giant slalom race with flags set far enough apart to give you time to carve into the turn. That type of skiing and riding helps one better understand speed and control, since your goal is to stay on course and on your feet through the finish.

It’s also a lot of fun overall with a festival setting, prizes and giveaways and other special touches unique to each race tour stop.

This year, the Vertical Challenge will be at Nashoba Valley Ski Area and Berkshire East, both in Massachusetts, on Feb. 9.

You’ll find them in New Hampshire as well on Feb. 9, at Cannon Mountain Feb, 14, McIntyre Ski Area Feb. 15 and at recently reopened Tenney Mouintain on Feb. 16.

They come back to Massachusetts for a day at historic Bousquet Ski Area on Feb. 20.

While the challenge itself is free, you will need to be holding a ticket to ski or ride your race resort of choice. Vertical Challenge also suggests you register to race by the night prior to ensure you get a spot.

Finish in the top three of your category any time this season and you’re qualified for the exciting finals, to be held at Berkshire East this season,

You can learn more, see a full schedule and register at https://ski-vc.com/