With more cold temperatures in the forecast, the race organizers at Lappe decided to move Saturday's interval start classic to Friday, as the temperatures were considerably warmer. The race was delayed until 11:00 and we raced at a balmy -11 degrees. The women raced 2 laps of a 5km course, and the men completed 3. It was a challenging course, with lots of hills and transitions, and finished with the ominously named "The Grunt".
On the men's side, the race was won by Kevin Sandau, who continued his distance NorAm winning streak. For XC Ottawa, Karl finished in 28th spot and Andre finished 35th.
Karl racing hard
Andre, with a great pain face
For the women, the race was won by Andrea Dupont of Rocky Mountain Racers, who was fresh off her win the in skate sprint on Thursday. XC Ottawa had 4 women starting, with Megan in 10th, Sheila 12th, Kyla 14th and Ingrid 16th.
Megan heading out the start gate.
After two days of racing, we then enjoyed an off day on Saturday for prep for the skiathlon. Sunday morning dawned sunny and extremely cold. Temperatures at Lappe were -25 at 9am and warmed up very slowly. By noon, with temperatures hovering at around -22, the organizers cancelled the race. That didn't stop XC Ottawa and many other skiers for heading out for a beautiful ski on the trails.
Thanks to all the volunteers from Lappe who organized an excellent event, despite the frigid temperatures. Also, thanks to Craig, along with Moe and Daniel of Chelsea Nordiq, who gave us excellent skis for the whole week.
Craig working his magic on our skis.
Skiing on the beautiful trails of Lappe.
Aside from XC Ottawa results, several local athletes were selected to represent Canada on the international stage. Congrats to Sophie Carrier-Laforte (Skinouk), and Kendra Murray (Carleton alumni), who qualified for world U23s; Will Dumas (Skinouk), who made World Juniors, and Laura Leclair (Chelsea) and Claire Grall-Johnson, who qualified for the Junior B-tour. Keep an eye out for news of these athletes as they compete in Europe later this season.
Interesting Reading. . .
"Vauhti Waxes. . . the conditions are always right!"