Originally published in the April 19 issue of The Mountain-Ear Newspaper.

Barbara Lawlor, Nederland.

Last year’s Pondskim event at Eldora Mountain Resort was so successful that it returned this year with two ponds, offering the daredevils a choice. One pond was a little bigger, shallower and appropriate for the more conservative skimmers.

The other pond was deeper, smaller, a challenge for those who wanted to flip or somersault, and for the ski patrolmen who needed to practice water rescues in a sled.

Over 100 people sped down the man made run that led to the murky water to see if they could make it to the other side. A couple of eight-year-old girls from Niwot couldn’t get enough of the challenge even though they were soaked, and the sun wasn’t doing much to warm the day. “We’ve been waiting for this,” they said.

As skimmers of all ages, sizes and sexes found themselves sinking, their boots filling, their bare skin numbing, members of the Nederland Fire Protection District dive team were on hand to help the ice shocked, clumsy sinkers get out of the pond.

A Mad Hatter made the run, never letting go of his tea cup; a well-muscled young man made the trip in a speedo while drinking a beer, twice.

Eldora Mountain Resort will close on Sunday, April 22, about a week later than usual. The last day is traditionally a time for tailgate parties, music and a bit of nostalgia at the end of the season.