Wisconsin State Journal

ELVER PARK TO FEATURE WINTER GAMES FESTIVAL

THE GAMES OVER FOUR DAYS THIS MONTH WILL INTRODUCE RESIDENTS TO WINTER SPORTS OPTIONS AVAILABLE AT THE MADISON PARK.

The city of Madison and partners are inviting families to learn a new winter sport or sharpen skills next week.

The new Elver Winter Skill Games, which will include snow carving, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding, will take place after school from Feb. 9-12 at Elver Park.

"Madison's parks provide a wealth of opportunities for healthy fun for families year-round," Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said.

"I'm pleased to kick off the new winter festivals."

The games are sponsored by the city, Madison Community Foundation and Wisconsin Youth Company.

"These programs strengthen Elver Park as a family winter destination and create opportunities for youth leadership and community building," said Madison Community Foundation vice president Tom Linfield.

The skill games are intended to kick off the bigger Madison Winter Festival that features world-class cross-country ski races and other events on Capitol Square Feb. 13-15.

The weekend festival features ice and snow sculptures, a tubing hill and snowboard rail, snowshoeing events, special events at museums, open public skiing and more.

There will also be another attempt to break the world record in a 100 meter cross-country race.

The Elver Winter Games will open the park as a learning venue and encourage children to try new winter sports, Cieslewicz aide Mario Mendoza said.

A variety of activities will be offered, but each day will have a focus. The events will run from 4 to 8 p.m.

* Feb. 9. Snow carving and snowshoeing, including the chance to compete on an obstacle course.

*Feb. 10. Skating, including lessons from the Madison Speed Skating Club.

* Feb. 11. Cross-country skiing, including instruction and an obstacle course.

* Feb. 12. Sledding and a cardboard derby.

All instruction and lessons are free, Mendoza said.

Children who are part of the Wisconsin Youth Company will be provided equipment and rentals will be available to the general public, he said.