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.