Somewhere in between are the other races. Preparation of the race course begins as soon as autumn nights get cold enough for snowmaking and, oddly, in this business of snowmaking actual snowfall tends to get in the way - snowmaking scientists prefer the predictable nature of snowmaking to sculpt a course. After getting adequate coverage along the runs, workers create a big steep hill to serve as the starting area, massage in dips and rolls, and sculpt a finish area big enough for the racers' signature swooping turn and a few thousand onlookers. Racers in the giant slalom begin at 8,200 feet on King Con and end up in the area's base at 6,960 feet. Before the race begins any loose snow on the course is packed into a hard, icy, fast surface.
Racers compete season-long around the world in a big points game.
In each race, the top 30 racers advance to final round after prelims and race in reverse order to how they finished first run - a move that preserves excitement and anticipation. If conditions are deteriorating, officials switch the line up and run the fastest 15 in reverse order, then the second 15 in numerical order, a move that lets the fastest races ski the course when it is in the best condition. This year, the race opened in time to show off the brand new 54,000-square foot Legacy Lodge, which is packed with restaurants, retail shops and concierge services. The half-pipe is partially below ground level, affording good views for spectators, and boasts high decks and longer transition zones. Park City's first World Cup snowboarding event will be March, 2001.