The Tetrahedron Outdoor Club invites you to the fourth annual Sunshine Coast Loppet and Snowshoe Poker Challenge Sunday, Feb. 10 at Dakota Ridge Winter Recreation Area. This is a fun community event to get some exercise and celebrate winter in the pristine wilderness. There are events for all ages and fitness levels.
Loppet is a kind of Nordic ski event that, according to Cross Country Canada, is “a great gathering of skiers who ski on a specifically groomed trail…of various distances. Enormous amounts of food and drink are consumed during the event.” The 2018 Loppet brought nearly 60 skiers and snowshoers out to Dakota Ridge. Competitors seeking to beat last year’s time for the 30-kilometre race will need to ski the course in under an hour and 39 minutes. Last year’s winner, Blakely Browne, won in that time despite losing his way and skiing an extra five kilometres.
Those interested in trying something new can place their bets on the snowshoe race. “This year we’ve added a twist to the Snowshoe Challenge,” said co-organizer Jamie Mani. Playing cards will be posted along the trail for participants to collect, and the best poker hand wins. “This makes for a fun untimed event where anyone can win and snowshoers of all ages are encouraged.”
The ski events include a 30km long course and a 12km short course. Kids will enjoy their choice of 2.5km, 1km, and 100m events. Experienced youth are welcome to join the longer races as they are able.
Last year, the race drew athletes from across the Lower Mainland, including Burnaby and Port Moody.
There is a 1.5 metre base of snow at Dakota Ridge this year. Last year’s competitors traversed over a base of approximately 225 centimetres. Registration information can be found at www.tetoutdoor.ca/loppet.html and www.facebook.com/scloppet.
– Submitted
