So Rando

It’s been 10 years since locals Peter Carver and Joe Philpott died in separate avalanche incidents. Since then, the nonprofit organization founded in their memory, Know the Snow Fund, has raised tens of thousands of dollars and handed out hundreds of scholarships for avalanche safety training. In 2024 alone, KTSF supported scholarships for nearly 100 individuals.

Now, folks have a chance to give back and help KTSF celebrate 10 years of helping people winter-recreate safely in the San Juans. (Costumes are highly encouraged. And while skinsuits may look funny, they are not technically costumes.)

On Sun., Jan. 26, KTSF’s annual Rando Race takes place at Purgatory starting at 8 a.m. The event, which is KTSF’s biggest fundraiser of the year, allows folks the rare opportunity to ski uphill (and down) at Purgatory – a practice that is not typically allowed. The event is open to seasoned athletes, casual costume-wearers and those just wanting to get a sweat on for a good cause. 

“We invite everyone to join. Whether you’re a competitive racer or a first-time participant, your involvement will help ensure that Know the Snow can continue to offer scholarships and education for many years to come,” KTSF Executive Director Jim Philpott said.

In its first decade, KTSF has given scholarships for Recreational Level 1 and 2 rescue courses, a Youth Recreational Level 1 through Silverton Avalanche School, a course for Animas High School students, and professional courses. In addition, through the donations from BCA, KTSF was able to dispense handheld radios to all scholarship recipients last year and provide radio training to further enhance backcountry safety. 

“We are thankful for the support of our donors, volunteers and partners over the years, as well as the strong sense of community we’ve built,” Philpott said. “As we reflect on our 10-year journey, it’s incredibly inspiring to hear from past scholarship recipients who have gone on to pursue careers in the outdoor and winter sports industries, or simply become more confident and safer in their backcountry adventures.”

Past recipients have gone on to pursue careers in snow safety locally, including Purgatory Ski Patrol Manager Blayne Woods and CAIC forecaster, Krista Beyer.

To learn more about Know the Snow, donate or sign up for the Rando Race, visit: www.knowthesnowfund.org