Mont-Sainte-Anne (QC), Canada (Tuesday, January 20, 2004) - Following the success of the past four years' events, the 5th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mont race for 2004 takes place at Mont-Sainte-Anne on January 24th and 25th. This event, rapidly gaining popularity, will contribute once more to raise funds for the Quebec Handicapped Skiers Foundation.

The 24 Hours of Le Mont is 24 consecutive hours of intense skiing and snowboarding in Participative and Performance categories. "Skiers and snowboarders who already lived the experience yield beneath the temptation of doing it again," says Yves Juneau, Sales and marketing director, who has participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mont many times. It's the same story from Charlotte Provencher, who will be participating in the solo category for a 4th season... at 68 years old! Others simply see this event the perfect occasion to extend their snow time during the night on two of the resort's more popular trails, Le Gros Vallon and La Beaupré.

WHAT’S NEW FOR THE 5TH EDITION?
Visitors may partake in this year's new "Upper 24H" cocktail party during the 24H event at the Chouette Bar from noon to 3 a.m., and thereafter at the base of the mountain from 3 a.m. until noon on Sunday. The party will last 24 consecutive hours with outdoor spas to keep everyone warm! Also, a junior package will be available for youngsters aged 17 years old or under to let them live this unique experience. In addition, results will be broadcasted directly on a giant screen to make sure that everyone knows who the leader is.

WHITE CARPET UNROLLED
It is at noon on Saturday January 24th, that Québec City winter carnival mascot Bonhomme Carnaval, assisted by the president of the Quebec Handicapped Skiers Foundation, will cut the official ribbon to start participants on their race around the clock. Two different categories will allow participants to ski or snowboard at their desired pace. The participative category will give skiers and snowboarders the opportunity to do the run of their choice during the day and take advantage of La Beaupré, exclusively reserved to them during the night. The performance category will have La Beaupré all day to themselves and have Le Gros Vallon all night. Participants will ascend the mountain after each run in the comfort of the resort's enclosed gondola cabins. A "prison zone" will provide a 5-minute for any rule violations.

INTERNATIONAL RADIANCE
The 24 Hours of Le Mont is getting some attention on the international scene. Resort spokespeople say that folks from Switzerland, France and Scotland have shown interest. Last year, a Brazilian vacationing at Mont-Sainte-Anne took part in the 24 Hour race. Closer to home, Montreal residents interested in the event may take advantage of the 24H Express Shuttle Package by calling (514) 990-5917.

QUEBEC HANDICAPPED SKIERS FOUNDATION
Half of the proceeds of this event will be donated to the Quebec Handicapped Skiers Foundation (FSHQ) for the fifth consecutive year. A sit-ski demonstration will be presented Saturday morning in La Pente Ecole between 10:30 am and 11:45 am. Visitors who wish to try it are welcome to do so and donate funds to the FSHQ all weekend long. A team of blind skiers from the Association Sports-Leasure for the Blinds (ASLPA) will again take part in the 24 Hours and will offer visitors the opportunity to try a run blindfolded with a guide.

REGISTRATION AND VOLUNTEERS
Registration for the event may be completed online at www.mont-sainte-anne.com/24h or at the resort's customer service office. An event such as this requires lots of help to stage, and volunteers are needed to ensure security and other functions. People interested in voluteering are invited to contact Sebastien Caty at (418) 827-4561 extension 347.