Every season brings its share of unforgettable days—but some stand out above the rest. As we look ahead to the winter of 25/26, we’re celebrating the four most iconic days of last season—those rare days that pack in powder, sunshine, big events, and all-time mountain energy that make skiing and riding at Palisades Tahoe truly special.
The Pain McShlonkey Classic — March 22, 2025
On this spring Saturday, Palisades Tahoe became a stage for the outrageous, the heartfelt, and the downright hilarious Pain McShlonkey Classic. The annual event returned in full force, transforming the slopes into a snowblade-fueled tribute to the legendary Shane McConkey.
The day kicked off with the Hot Dog Downhill, where athletes in wild costumes flew down the hill on snowblades, embracing the chaos and the challenge. From there, the good vibes only ramped up—live DJ sets on the sundeck kept the energy high, fans posted their best blade shots for #SnowbladeDay, and the afterparty at Le Chamois sealed the deal on a perfect day.
Photos courtesy of Ryan Salm
There were standout performances across the board, but it was Palisades Tahoe’s own Donny Pelletier who took home the overall win—and the coveted Golden Saucer trophy—with a run that was equal parts flair, skill, and full send. In the women’s division, Magnolia Neu rose to the top with her own unforgettable display of snowblade style and precision.
But this wasn’t just a day for laughs—it was a day for legacy. The event raised $10,000 for the Sierra Community House, adding to the $1M+ the Shane McConkey Foundation has donated over the years to support local nonprofits and environmental causes. Whether you were charging moguls on blades, dancing in ski boots, or watching from home, this was a celebration of life, community, and the spirit that Shane left behind.
Why It Mattered
We’re calling March 22 one of the Best 4 Days of the 2024/25 season not just for the antics and outrageous costumes, but for the heart behind it all. The Pain McShlonkey Classic embodies what makes Palisades Tahoe so unique: fearless fun, deep-rooted community, and honoring legends by living large. It’s a day that reminds us skiing is about joy, connection, and never taking yourself too seriously.
Want In Next Season? Plan for Days Like This.
The beauty of a day like March 22? It only happens here. If you want to be part of the snowblade mayhem, the sundeck dance-offs, and the wildest spring vibes in skiing, now’s the time to lock in your lift access for next winter.
We’re offering flexible lift pack options that let you ski or ride your way:
Whether you’re chasing deep snow or spring stoke, these packs are your ticket to being part of the magic.
Here’s to the Next One
We don’t know what costumes will hit the slopes next year—or which snowblade tricks will steal the show—but we do know this: The McShlonkey energy will return. And if you want to witness the silliness, the style, and the spirit firsthand, you’ll want to be here for it.
Bring the blades. Bring the laughs. We’ll see you on the hill.
