Industry News
HILLTOP SKI AREA, Anchorage, Alaska. (January 18, 2025) – Snowboarder, Motivational Speaker, Author, and Coach Spencer Conley brings his Freedom Shred to Hilltop Ski Area MLK weekend. “We are excited to come ski and ride with locals and be a part of the Anchorage community and celebrate MLK on snow,” said Conley. “I want this to be the largest celebration on snow, and Anchorage is the place to make this happen.”
Conley, a former professional football player, started snowboarding during COVID-19 and became so passionate about the winter sport but quickly learned that not everyone could afford to ski and ride. That’s when he decided to do something about it and teamed up with mountains that would allow him to celebrate Juneteenth and MLK weekend on snow while providing lessons, gear, and affordable lift tickets for anyone wanting to try the sport. “I can’t wait to meet up with the Anchorage community at Hilltop on snow. We have a lot of activities planned, something for everyone,” Conley said.
This year, when Spencer reached out to Hilltop Ski Area, a mountain dear to his heart, Hilltop was happy to host the event. “I want this to be the biggest event on snow at Hilltop Ski Resort. It’s a chance to get everyone out on the slopes to learn, have fun, and fellowship while celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”
- Related: Bridging the Racial Gap in Skiing and Snowboarding With Former Professional Athlete Spencer Conley
Passes go on sale December 10, 2024, for $100, which includes:
- 3-Day Shred Pass (January 18,19 and 20) with free rentals while supplies last. First come, first serve.
- Free 1-Hour Beginner Lessons (Saturday and Sunday)
Activities and events:
- Friday Meet and Greet (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.)
- Afterparty for adults offsite
- The 5th annual Hoops4Unity event (Friday Night)
- DJ spinning tunes throughout the weekend
- Skiing and Snowboarding at Hilltop Ski Area
- Terrain Park Demos
- Fun family skier/boarder cross races on Monday afternoon
- Food and Drinks
- Prize Giveaways, product scavenger hunts, and enter to wins throughout the weekend
- Guest have the opportunity to try the Ski and Snowboard Slalom courses
Skiers and snowboarders from Oregon, Texas, New York, and Washington State are flying in for the event. They will go to Hilltop Ski Area to celebrate MLK weekend with locals on snow.
Celeste Hodge Growden, President/CEO of the Alaska Black Caucus, said, Celeste Hodge Growden, President/CEO of the Alaska Black Caucus, said, “As the president and CEO of the Alaska Black Caucus, I am thrilled to be part of the Freedom Shred Event at Hilltop.” While it’s true that our community is often underrepresented in outdoor activities like skiing, this event is an excellent opportunity to challenge those stereotypes and encourage participation in Alaska’s beautiful outdoors. We must create spaces where everyone, regardless of background, feels welcome to engage in these activities.”
Hoops4Unity brings together kids and law enforcement for a day of basketball and connection. This initiative is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity to foster understanding and build relationships between minority youth and police officers in our community. Kids ages seven through 18 are all welcome.
Through Hoops4Unity, the goal is to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a safe space where young people can engage with law enforcement in a positive environment. By encouraging teamwork and camaraderie on the court, we are helping to cultivate trust and mutual respect. This event embodies our commitment to promoting unity and empowerment, and it can have a lasting impact on the lives of the participants and the broader community.
Traditionally, we have secured celebrity referees for our event, with Alaska State Attorney General Treg Taylor and Alan Growden, the General Manager for Sturgeon Electric in Alaska, serving as referees for every game since its inception. It is a free event; every kid receives a tee shirt, medal, trophy, and free pizza. Hilltop Ski Area shared will give a few free passes at the event.
When: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, January 17th, 2025
Where: Boys and Girls Club Mountain View; 315 Price Street:
Who: Alaska Black Caucus (ABC) and the Anchorage Police Department Association (APDEA)
What: Hoops4Unity Basketball Game
The Hilltop event serves as a vital platform for our community, allowing us to come together, celebrate our shared experiences, and promote the idea that outdoor recreation is for everyone. By fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers, we can empower Black Alaskans and other marginalized groups to explore and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding us. This aligns perfectly with our mission at the Alaska Black Caucus to uplift and champion the lives of those we serve.
All are welcome to the event, and no experience is required; if you ever want to try skiing or snowboarding, become a Freedom Shredder for MLK weekend.
Media Contacts
Spencer Conley: coachcon91@icloud.com
Victoria Gaither: victoriagaither@gmail.com
Celeste Hodge Growden: Thealaskablackcaucus@gmail.com
