Blue sky and blue wax, idyllic start conditions for the 41st annual Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet. On Saturday, January 18, 430 skiers from 1 year 9 months to 87 years, eagerly classic skied distances from 1 to 32 km along the picture-perfect Larch Hills trails. Skillful grooming technicians and the Larch Hills new Prinoth Bison groomer contributed to the exceptional track setting. The new, single lap 32 km serpentine route, took skiers through scenic surprises on 21 different trails.
The Loppet’s affiliation with the B.C. Heart and Stroke Foundation brought in $3653 resulting in the significant 41 year donations total of $430,185.
Skiers from throughout B.C., Methow Valley, Washington, Ontario and a support “grandpa” from Cornerbrook, Newfoundland came to be part of the fun. Over 160 children and U18 skiers took part. The “Farthest Away” Awards went to Paige Saravanamuttoo and Zeba Crook from Ottawa. Zeba, who had last been to Larch Hills nearly 40 years ago, was surprised to find himself in a chalet photo of a summer work crew, back in his youth.
In first place overall completing the 32 km distance in impressive times were Ian Williams of Kelowna (1:32:33.6) and Laura McCabe of Methow Valley (1:52:56.4).
Skiing is just part of the event for participants. A hot lunch that includes both Rotary’s legendary beef on a bun and its vegan Lentil Veg soup counterpart, renewing annual acquaintances, a stadium award ceremony, swim passes and a curated video of the day presented at a late afternoon Appy Wind Up rounds out the full day experience.
The exceptional community support was exemplified by the generosity of 28 sponsors and the dedication of 160 capable volunteers assisting with course design, signing, parking, sponsorship, safety, waxing, nutrition, timing, grooming, route management and friendly support. The National Director of the Canadian Masters Cross Country Ski Association expressed “It is our opinion that your organization has the best classic marathon event in Western Canada thanks to your wonderful volunteers.”