PlayStation and Columbia Sportswear have joined forces to present the three-part 'King of the Mountain Series' at Perisher this winter season. ENTRIES ARE NOW OPEN!

To be known as the "PlayStation 'King of the Mountain' Series, in association with Columbia," the event will see Australia's best skiers take on Slopestyle, Super Half-pipe and Giant Gap Jump disciplines in a bid to be crowned best overall free-rider, in Men's Women's and Grommet categories.

"It's fantastic to have two of our long-standing resort sponsors make a commitment to the development of skiing in Australia." Said, Neil Thew Public Relations & Business Development Manager at Perisher. "We'll have elite competitors and also a grommets section with prize-money and great product prizes up for grabs," continued Mr. Thew.

The King of the Mountain Series provides a platform for skiers to showcase their skills in tackling Australia's best free-ride facilities in a competitive environment at Perisher.

"We have noticed of late, that the number of skiing specific events have decreased in Australia" commented Steve Wherrett, Director of Sponsorships, Sony Computer Entertainment Australia (SCE Aust.). "More recently however, skiing is back on the radar as being 'cool' again with the younger kids who can pull off some amazing manoeuvres. It's important to PlayStation to support this type of talent and encourage the creativity and skill we expect to see out on the slopes during the series."

The PlayStation King of the Mountain Series kicks off with Slopestyle 10 July 2010, followed by the Super Pipe 22 August and then the Giant Gap Jump / Big Air planned for 11 September (date and location for this to be confirmed).

Columbia Sportswear, the world's biggest skiwear label, jumped at the idea of supporting the event. "We wanted to extend our partnership with Perisher to include a cutting edge event and we think the King of the Mountain Series provides just that." Said Liam Murphy Marketing Manager Columbia Sportswear Australia. "We're excited to help nurture young skiers and align Columbia with two premier brands, Perisher and PlayStation." Stated Mr Murphy.

Competitors won't have to enter all three events to take part, as each discipline carries cash and other prizes, however, the skier with the most points collected during the Series will win extra prize-money and sponsor goodies.

To keep posted on this and all events this winter at Perisher go to: www.perisher.com.au/winter/events/index.php