19th Annual Great Outhouse Races slide through Sapphire Valley Resort
The 19th edition of the Great Outhouse Races at Sapphire Valley Resort was held on Saturday, Feb. 7. The unique competition featured custom-built outhouses racing over approximately 40 yards down a two-lane track of packed snow.
Attracting between 2,500 to 3,000 guests, the event offered an afternoon of fun with live music, food and drinks. All proceeds benefitted the Rotary Club of Cashiers Valley.
“There were a lot of close races,” said Resort General Manager Jennifer Gainey. “So people really got into it and it was really competitive.”
Food was served by the Rotary Club and Slopeside Tavern, while Ansley and The Hold performed southern pop rock following the conclusion of the races.
The event was originally established in 2006 and was named an ‘STS Top 20 Event’ by the Southeast Tourism Society in 2018.
“It’s the biggest event in town,” said Kelly Parr, who attended the races for the first time with her son, Jeff. “I’ve never seen an outhouse go down a ski slope before, so I was curious.”
Teams typically consist of three competitors, with one person skiing while the other two push. Entries are required to follow 16 rules, such as having a hole or toilet seat, using manpower only to move the outhouse, being mounted on snow skis, standing a minimum of five feet tall from the floor to the highest point, and featuring a name that is in good taste.
They are judged by three judges—a guest, a homeowner and a board member—who vote on categories including most humorous, best construction and best theme. Below is a list of this year’s winners:
“Inturdinator”, entered by Sarah O’Kelley, was declared this year’s race. The team received a trophy and refund of their entry fee.
“USS Johnson”, entered by Alex Tate, won the most creative award.
“Dad’s Time, entered by Sam Bartlett, won best construction.
“Poo Star Ranch”, entered by Blue Star Ranch, won the people’s choice award.
“Takin’ Care of Business”, entered by the Silver Creek Real Estate and Loudermilk Homes collaboration, finished second in the races.
“I think what was good on Saturday was how a majority of them [outhouses] stayed upright,” said Amenities Director Steve Martell. “You don’t like to see a lot of the crashes because that could mean something was wrong with the track.”
Organizers will now begin preparations for next year’s Outhouse Races, discussing potential improvements ahead of the 20th edition of the event.
- Mitch Stone
reporter@highlandsnews.com