Queenstown, New Zealand (Monday, July 17, 2006) - A field of nearly 50 competitors turned out yesterday for the season’s first io Sunday Grand Prix ski race at Coronet Peak.

“We’re really pleased with the interest in the series so far and the number of new faces we saw yesterday. The ethos behind the Sunday race series has always been ‘come along, have a go, just get in amongst it’ and we saw plenty of that,” said race series coordinator Susan Sawyer.

“Conditions at Coronet Peak were pretty near perfect. A nicely groomed run, an excellent snow base and a very sociable atmosphere made it a great day.”

Now in its 21st year, the social giant slalom race series is open to all comers over the age of 18.

Group A was won by Makoto Shimoyama. Shimoyama is originally from Japan, but has been coming to Queenstown to enjoy the winter season for many years.

A local man, Paul Johnson, claimed the top spot in Group B. Keeping success in the family, Johnson’s son Matt also took first place in the under 16 Youth Skier category at yesterday’s Parklife Mini Shred competition at The Remarkables.

Group C in the io Sunday Grand Prix was won by Susan Sawyer, race series coordinator and long-time Queenstown resident.

A handicapping system accommodates various levels of experience (in a similar way to golf) allowing racers to strive for improvement as the series progresses.

A host of goodies were handed out at last night’s awards ceremony, including an io altitude simulation program, won by local woman Kinsie Rose.

Four weeks remain in the popular io Sunday Grand Prix ski racing series – July 23 and 30 and August 20 and 27. Funds raised by the series will be donated to support Queenstown Alpine Ski Team (QAST).

Race registration forms are available from new Sunday race series title sponsor io, at their Queenstown Centre in Gorge Road Retail Centre. Registration is also available on the race day at 10:30 a.m. on the deck of the Coronet Peak Brasserie.