Media Release: 42nd Annual Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet

Video: https://youtu.be/CrjevWtblHo?si=SAbeYA2qoWFntRKd

The 42nd Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet (RKSL) was a tremendous success with 434 racers and over 160 volunteers creating a hub of outdoor fun at the Larch Hills Ski Area (Salmon Arm, BC).  Limited snow depth and erratic freeze and melt fluctuations were energetically overcome by a tenacious grooming team.

Donations of over $4,020.00 were raised for the affiliate Heart and Stroke Foundation of BC/Yukon, bringing the 42 consecutive year RKS Loppet donation total to $434,180.00. 

It was a day of contrasts from frost painted trees at the start line to a sunny summit, relaxed casual chatter to focused preparation, klister wax concoctions to waxless bases, first time little ones to seasoned masters and finally the post race offerings of the renowned BBQ beef on a bun to the equally renowned Lentil Veg soup. The consistency of the day was in the many racers and volunteers with a multi-generation history of participation as well as the return for the 42nd year of well-known race announcers Steve and Jean King. 

The fast tracks saw blistering times and proud smiles from all ages doing the 1, 2, 5, 10, 17 or 32 km loops. 

First place overall finishers of the 32 km were Ian Williams (1:30:35.1) and Caitlin Gregg (1:48:15.5).

Full race results, information and video can be found at www.skilarchhills.ca ….. just follow the link to the Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet.