There was a "just-right" feel to Shawnee Peak yesterday, following the four or so inches of snow from Monday's storm. The sun was brilliant, fresh snow glistened, and happy vibes were felt across the slopes and throughout the base lodge.

And mindful of today's blast of arctic air plus the critical need for much more white stuff, the snowmakers were out on the mountain in force.

I forgot to bring my camera, but Shawnee's ever-helpful Josh Harrington shot a few pix for the Ski Bum to share throughout blogdom.

Good vibes were felt everywhere at Shawnee Peak yesterday thanks to Monday's snowfall
JOSH HARRINGTON PHOTO

Corduroy grooming on the Main Slope plus additional snowmaking
JOSH HARRINGTON PHOTO

Snowmaking going full blast yesterday on the Main Slope
JOSH HARRINGTON PHOTO

Now let's shift gears to downhill snow bicycle racing. Yup. It happens right here on Saturday for the sixth straight year. Ernie's Cycle Shop in Westbrook (call 207-854-4090) is this year's bike shop sponsor. The big deal this year: It's at night.

The battle for the coveted Yellow Parka -- we're being metaphorical here -- gets going at 5 p.m. Jan. 20. Marketing maven Melissa Rock expects more than 100 entrants who will race in a Snowboardcross elimination format; that means four cyclists compete in each heat, with the top two advancing to the next round. The format guarantees thrills, spills and laughter.

If you want to enter, note that registration runs 2-4 p.m. and costs $25. Practice runs begin at 4 p.m.

Here are three pix from last year's event:

Downhill snow bicycle racing returns to Shawnee Peak this Saturday
COURTESY SHAWNEE PEAK

Mountain bikes are made for mountains, right?
COURTESY SHAWNEE PEAK

The battle for the coveted Yellow Parka gets underway at 5 p.m. Saturday Jan. 20 at Shawnee Peak
COURTESY SHAWNEE PEAK

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