Designing is all the rage these days, from the budding fashionista divas on “Project Runway” to carpenter Ty Pennington’s cross-country tearing down and rebuilding of houses on “Extreme Makeover.”

Now, skier Lindsey Vonn is letting fans make a big fashion decision. She has announced a contest to design her racing helmet for the Vancouver Olympics.

Starting Nov. 23, anyone over the age of 13 can submit a sketch of what artwork should grace her helmet via www.NBCOlympics.com/lindseys-helmet.

The helmet will get a lot of attention and air time, as Vonn is a two-time defending World Champion and one of the favorites in all of the downhill disciplines.

“This is your chance to be with me in Vancouver,” Vonn said in a statement. “Whether you’re an aspiring graphic designer or just someone who likes to doodle all day, it doesn’t matter if you snow plow down the bunny slopes, tree-ski in waist deep powder, or just hang in the lodge, I want to see your designs.”

The submitted designs must be original artwork, and have to be uploaded by Dec. 21. The entries will be narrowed to the top three. Fan voting on NBColympics.com, along with Vonn’s decision, will determine the winning design, which will be unveiled in late January.

The designer of the winning entry will get a trip for two to Vail. There are more prizes, such as skis and goggles, for other entrants.

By JOANNE C. GERSTNER
November 18, 2009, 2:22 pm
The New York Times