Despite chilly weather and snow all morning, over 500 cross country skiing racers invaded the Callaghan Valley to take part in the first ever edition of Sigges Payakentsut on Saturday (Feb. 26).
The 50 kilometre race saw 29 competitors duke it out and Salmon Arms Brian May emerged victorious, beating out Canmores Phil Villeneuve by nearly four minutes.
I feel pretty good but my legs are super sore, May said moments after crossing the finish line. Early on, there were four of us who broke free but I decided to keep pushing it and at around the 30 kilometre mark I took the lead and didnt look back.
According to May, the final course lap was challenging.
There are two sections of climbing and it was pretty hard on the second loop, he said. And the final four to five kilometres my legs were burning the whole time but I just kept pushing through.
He added that although it was a chilly day, the course was in terrific condition.
I thought it was really nice out there, he said. There was a lot of fresh snow but it was packed well underneath. No complaints from me today.
May also said he would like to come back to defend his title next year and hopes the event continues to grow.
Along with the 50 kilometre race, racers also competed in 30 and 15 kilometre races. Whistlers Dave Burch took home first in the 30, while Pembertons Arlene Schieven won the womens 15 kilometre race.
In addition to the adults, 180 children took part in the event. Kids were divided up into groups based on age and led through obstacle courses to test their speed and skill. Older kids were taken on a small course located in front of the ski jumping area, which featured climbing, obstacles and a downhill portion.
Check out the full story in Fridays edition of The Chief.
