PREECEVILLE- The Preeceville Nordic Ski Club hosted its third annual cross-country ski loppet on March 2.
According to Cross Country Canada, a loppet is “a great gathering of skiers who ski on a specifically groomed trail, using either the classic (diagonal stride) or free (skating) technique, covering various distances, with plenty of food and drink enjoyed during (and after) the event.”
This year, the Preeceville loppet had 34 registrants, including almost all of its 20 members. The oldest participant was 77 years of age, while the youngest was just four. Additionally, a few two-year-olds joined their parents, being pulled along on the trails in special strollers or sleds.
“We had participants from Yorkton, Regina, Preeceville, Sturgis, Endeavour, and Hazel Dell. There were also a couple of skiers who came to borrow equipment and try cross-country skiing for the first time,” stated Megan Maier, a representative of the club.
“We awarded many door prizes and a lot of cookies, oranges, and hot dogs were enjoyed. The weather was fantastic, with temperatures around two degrees above zero Celsius. Each participant received a certificate of completion, indicating the distance they skied.
“The Lions Family Trails were in excellent condition, and we extend a huge thank you to Florian Balawyder and Ralph Ager for maintaining the trails throughout the season.”
This year, the Kelsey Ecological Society contributed by providing hot chocolate, s’mores, and prizes from Nature Saskatchewan for the kids who completed a nature scavenger hunt.
“All in all, it was a great success,” Maier concluded.
