Marg skittering thru the rough trails
While the snow was in reasonable condition and the weather was pleasant, the previous night's wind storm with major snow devils blew debris over most of the trails making it the most challenging course ever!
A trail with only a little debris!
It was a feat to remain upright and not dead stop upon a pinecone or twig spread all over the trails in the trees. The open parts of the course treated us to sections of good snowy ski trails and outstanding mountain views.
Skiers crossing train tracks; Volunteers shovelled snow over the tracks after each train came by
After a long tiring race, a favourable 50 kph wind helped get me to the finish line quickly on the final 5 km stretch on the Bow River.
The marsh section, no tracks only flagging tape
My skis survived the debris with only marginally "natural" stone grinding. The party at the Sally Borden was superb with time to share stories with racers. A must race for anyone into epics!
Results at http:///www.loppet.ca
Team Bikes & Beyond - Paul, Jeff, Philip and Marg
Marg with former and current Winnipeggers on a post-race ski at Canmore
