This weekend, XC Ottawa put together the annual Eload-Emend Duathlon at Nakkertok South. While there was some debate about the emerging trend of titling these events "Skiathlons", we decided to stick with tradition for the time being. For the first time in a few years, we were able to hold the event during the day (and on a weekend!). This allowed some course changes from the usual night lit loops, and the addition of a "middle" age category.

A huge thank you to everyone who came, and everyone who helped out with the event, races cannot run without volunteers, something I appreciate more and more all the time! A special thank you to Justin, Shelia, Megan, Karl, Katie, John, Nevin, and Lindsey for their hard work leading up to and on the race day. Also to Craig for his excellent computer skills. Also to Kevin Gibb for his timing expertise and Dave Mallory for his excellent grooming, we couldn't have done it otherwise. We were very fortunate to have the skilled Jo-Ann Holden photographing the race! And to anyone we missed, and all of Nakkertok, thank you!

One last special thank you goes out to our sponsors, Fresh Air Expreince and E-Load/E-Mend. They contributed some amazing prizes this year, including ski bags, Vauhti wax, Energy Gels, and Fly.

Check out a few pictures followed by results below, and hopefully we will see even more people out next year for this unique and fun event!

See all the pictures from MusicianOnSkis.ca in Album #1, Album #2 and Album #3. The Halvorsen's have also supplied a gallery of the first race.

Although the morning started cold (and sunny!) the 13 and under age group prove they are as tough as anyone as they start out on their classic leg.

Setting up boxes in the exchange zone with skate equipment.

Some nice striding as the 14-16 age group heads uphill on their classic leg.

The "17 and up" category heads out from the stadium on the classic leg.

Heading around after the transition.

RESULTS

13 and Under

14-16

17+