In partnership with the Roger Williams Botanical Center, NewportFILM announces its final film of the Winter Warm Up series, “Champions of the Golden Valley” — winner of the Grand Prize and Audience Choice at Banff Mountain Film Festival — about young Afghan skiers from rival villages convening for a mountain race before many are displaced.

In the remote mountains of Afghanistan, a newfound passion for skiing attracts young athletes from rival villages to the slopes. With minimal gear and makeshift wooden skis, the determined coach Alishah Farhang organizes a ski race like no other that unites the community in a moment of unity and triumph, just before the country’s collapse.

“Champions of the Golden Valley” captures the spirit of a classic underdog sports story with the heartfelt portrait of a community finding hope amid disrupted dreams. Revealing a stunning unseen side of Afghanistan, it is an uplifting exploration of what it means to be a champion – in all its forms.

Event Details

• Thursday, March 20; Doors at 6 p.m., film at 7 p.m.

• Roger Williams Park Botanical Center, Floral Ave, Providence, RI

• This event is free but seating is limited - RSVP required and can be made at newportFILM