Cold War: Dead of Winter Games

February 17, 2010

The first ever Cold War Games will warm your heart with cheer and goodwill even if they freeze participants to the bone. Enter the relay and tug-of-war main events, enjoy less-involved wintry diversions, throw back hot drinks and support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada.

Yes, it's cold, but this is Reno, and we can just deal with it at the Sparks Marina, 300 Howard Drive in Sparks, on Feb. 20. Things kick off at 11 a.m.

The main competition is the Slush Rush, a two-person relay that takes racers around the marina where they must overcome snow banks, plow snow with a shopping cart, escape ambushes and more insanity ... like a balance beam over ice. Registration is $30 per team.

The Polar Opposites tug-of-war competition is open to corporate teams as well as crazy groups of friends. Registration is $20 per team of up to 10 people.

Remember, seeing all this madness is free, but some activities may have a nominal cost, so bring some cash - it all goes to the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program!

For more information, visit http://coldwarnv.com/

More entertainment:

* Arctic Chicken - Head-to-Head fight on Big Wheels. Safety gear provided.
* Numb and Number - Ice block throwing competition. Think shot put, only cooler.
* Captain Uncool - Worst winter wear costume contest. Get out your '70s ski gear and Davy Crockett coonskins, it's going to be one heck of a fashion show.
* Ultimate Snowball - Get ready for the snowball fight of the century (Weather permitting!).
* The Human Popsicle - Dunk tank.
* The Brain Freeze - Slurpee drinking competition.
* Snowshoe Capture the Flag - Bring your own snowshoes and plenty of attitude.
* Below Zero - Mini golf where you'll be putting way under par.
* Kill the Snowman - Warm up your throwing arm. It's your chance to take out Frosty with a fastball.
* Pre-Party and After-Party - Join us for The Warm Up - a pre-event gathering with drink specials on Irish Coffees, Hot Toddy's and the like. And don't miss out on The Meltdown a post-event gathering to honor our medal winners of the day. Locations TBD.
* Frozen in Time - Photo shoot. Take home a souvenir photo from the festival!
* Music & refreshments - Enjoy a live DJ, as well as hot food and drinks available for purchase.
* The Hot Flash - A heated tent for the weak-hearted.
* Chill Out - Hookah lounge for those who can appreciate cold pipes.

www.gotorenotahoe.com