Athletes to take on the Grouse Grind

Athletes at the upcoming Vancouver 2011 North America Outgames will get a truly west coast experience as organizers add the Grouse Grind to its sports line-up.

A rose by any other name, the infamous Grouse Grind challenge gets a new moniker and will be referred to as the 6K Vertical Challenge at the Outgames.

Starting at the foot of Grouse Mountain, competitors will race to the top of the most challenging hiking trail in Vancouver, which is also referred to by locals as 'Mother Nature's Stairmaster'.

"This course will be one of the most, literally, breath-taking sport events at the Games," said Outgames organizers.

In addition to its newest sport, the Vancouver 2011 Outgames will include a total of ten sport elements that include soccer, volleyball, an eco-challenge 10K run, golf taking place throughout the Lower Mainland and in Whistler.

The Games will also feature a Human Rights Conference featuring keynote speaker Olympic short track speed skater Blake Skjellerup, Professor of Music UBC and concert pianist Sara Davis Buechner and Stephen A. Glassman, Chairperson of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

The third component of the Outgames is the cultural celebration featuring a flag run, the opening and closing ceremonies, a womenzone, medals ceremonies and showcase performances by various artists, including Ace of Base, Dragonette and Carole Pope.

Vancouver 2011 North America Outgames
25 - 31 July 2011

Visit http://www.vancouver2011outgames.com for more information.