Ideal weather and near-perfect snow conditions are expected for the Spirit of the Rivers Loppet at Otway Nordic Centre on Sunday.
That's good news for the 106 skiers already registered in the loppet. It’s a classic-only race for the 30-kilometre, 15 km and 7.5 km distances, while those in the 2.5 km class will have their choice of either classic or free technique.
“It’s a classic theme for the event, so people could wear their classic skis in the spirit of the theme," said Nateevah Sterling, the Caledonia club’s social media coordinator.
“Right now the trails are pretty dry and compact so we’re hoping with the temperatures warming up in the next couple days it will soften things a little bit.”
The 30 km race stats at 8:30 a.m. Sunday. The 15km skiers start at 9 a.m., followed by the 2.5km race at 9:15 and the 7.5 km race at 9:30. Race bibs and timing chips will be available at the timing shed near the biathlon range starting at 7:30.
Recreational skiers are being advised the 30 km and 15 km race routes cover two of the dog trails (Dog On It and Top Dog) at the east end of the nordic centre, and they will be closed from 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Prizes will be given to those with the best costumes. All racers are eligible for draw prizes provided by Stride and Glide Sports and the Caledonia club.
DJ Ant will be on hand to crank up the tunes and Tina’s Catering will be there to feed hungry skiers. Kids activities are planned for the stadium area from 10 a.m. – noon.
Registration cutoff is at 11:59 a.m. this morning. Go to the club website to register and for more information on race routes.
