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A Weekend Like No Other: Pain McShlonkey & Mothership Classic

  • By Dominic Purviance
  • Experiences
  • Mar 16, 2025
Skier hitting a backflip at the Pain McShlonkey Classic

Get ready for one of the rowdiest, most unforgettable weekends of the season! March 22-23 marks the return of Pain McShlonkey and the Mothership Classic, two of the most beloved and iconic events at Palisades Tahoe. This isn’t just any weekend—it’s a celebration of ski culture, nostalgia, and the legendary Shane McConkey. Whether you’re here to compete, cheer, or just soak up the vibes, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.

How to Get Involved

4 skiers riding KT-22 in vintage outfits.

Both events are about more than just fun—they support amazing causes.

  • Pain McShlonkey Classic: A hilarious tribute to Shane McConkey and a day filled with snowblades, outrageous costumes, and belly laughs. The event benefits the Shane McConkey Foundation, which supports environmental and humanitarian causes worldwide.

  • Mothership Classic: A first-to-last chair challenge on KT-22 where participants raise funds for the High Fives Foundation, helping athletes recover from life-changing injuries. Sign up, gather pledges, and get ready to rack up some serious laps!

Best Spots to Après & Keep the Party Going

After a full day of shredding, keep the good times rolling at some of the best après spots around Palisades Tahoe:

4 people enjoying pizza and drinks at Le Chamois.
  • Le Chamois – A Palisades institution and the perfect place to swap stories over a pitcher of beer.

Live music at KT Base Bar.
  • KT Base Bar – Right at the base of KT-22, this is the prime spot to watch the action and grab a cold one.

People dancing on the bar at The Slot.
  • The Slot – A legendary local hole-in-the-wall, ideal for capping off the day with a well-earned drink.

Channel Your Inner McConkey

Want to honor Shane’s legendary spirit? Here’s how:

  • Wear the most ridiculous outfit you can find. The more retro, the better. Bonus points for capes, tutus, or full 80s onesies.
  • Ditch the fat skis. Rock some skinny skis, snowblades, or a mono-ski for maximum nostalgia.
  • Don’t take yourself too seriously. Shane was all about having fun—so embrace the chaos, send it big, and make some unforgettable memories.

Join the Madness – March 22-23!

This is your chance to be part of one of the most legendary weekends at Palisades Tahoe. Whether you’re here to compete, party, or just witness the madness, don’t miss out.

Pain McShlonkey
Mothership Classic

Want a taste of what’s to come? Check out last year’s recap videos below and get hyped!

Pain McShlonkey
Mothership Classic

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Dominic Purviance

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