Ice climber Andrew Belhm (above) belays Michael Aschmann on Jan. 9 at the Ouray Ice Park. The 2021 elite mixed ice climbing competition begins with qualifying rounds today and the finals will be live-streamed at it a.m. Saturday at ourayicepark.com. Crowds will not be allowed due to the pandemic - only competitors, Ice Park staff and volunteers are allowed on-site. The qualifying rounds will be taped but not broadcasted live. PHOTO BY KOEN LICHTENBELT/Special to the Plaindealer
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HANGING OUT
The Ouray Ice Park’s 26th annual Ice Festival is virtual this year, complete with a livestreamed competition, virtual auction and virtual closing ceremony.
The livestreaming of the event at ourayicepark.com was made possible by donations from the Colorado Tourism Office, Colorado Lottery and the City of Ouray and sponsors including Ouray Silver Mines and several big-name outdoor companies. Those donations will cover the cost of livestreaming the competition.
Given that cost — estimated to be m...