Wanaka, NZ (June 22, 2009) – On August 29th, the World Heli Challenge returns to Wanaka, New Zealand, after an extended hiatus. The unique competition features snowboarders and skiers, and takes place over a two week period (August 29-September 12) with three heli days to ensure the best weather. Kind of like a surf competition, this will ensure the best weather days for the contest–the way big mountain comps should be held. Confirmed riders include North Face Masters champ Matthew Annetts, North Face athlete Ralph Backstrom, and two-time Dicks Ditch winner Rachel Sheidow, who also got third at the Alyeska Extremes. for more, see the World Heli Challenge website.