Barring a change in conditions over the next week, Mother Nature will cooperate with the Prince Albert Nordic Ski Club when they host their classic loppet event on Sunday, Jan. 26 at Little Red River Park.
“I think they are saying it’s going to be around minus-eight on Sunday, which is balmy weather after the last few days around here,” said Bill Jeffrey, who is one of the organizers of the event.
Around 200 skiers are expected to take part in the loppet, which is a term used for a gathering of skiers who ski on a specifically-groomed trail of various distances.
“There’s something for everybody,” Jeffrey said. “We have different distances of five, 10, 20 and 35 kilometers, along with a 1.2km trail for small kids to use.
“There will be some skiers that will try to go around the course as quickly as they can, but it’s more for people that want to get outside and enjoy what Little Red River Park has to offer.”
The majority of the participants are expected to come from around the province for next Sunday’s loppet, though Jeffrey is anticipating skiers from Alberta to make their way to Prince Albert.
“It will be a good mix of new skiers and those who have some experience,” Jeffrey said.
“If you look at our club for example, we had around 180 members three years ago and now we have over 400. A lot of that increase comes from younger families coming out with their kids, especially as it’s a fun sport for everyone and one that’s really cheap.”
The cost to take part in the loppet is $20 for ski club members and $25 for non-members, while those 16 years of age and under can enter for free.
The registration fee, which has a late fee of $10 after Wednesday, Jan. 22, includes the entry fee for the event along with a stew and bannock lunch.
Registration and bib pick up starts at the Cosmo Lodge at 9 a.m., with the loppet starting at 10 a.m.
For more information on the event, call Jeffrey at 306-922-0399 or register online at www.zone4.ca
