Everything appears to be lining up for the Cariboo Marathon Gold Rush, slated for Feb. 12 at the 99 Mile Ski Trails.
The weather and snow conditions are looking good, says Barrie Bolton, who along with Linda Peterson, serves as chief of race.
Last weekend, there was 60 centimetres of snow on the racecourse, but recent snowfalls have increased that number, says Bolton.
The event offers a 50-kilometre and 30-km race for adults, and for juniors, there are 20-, 10- and four-km races. Recreational events of 20- and 10-km for adults are also a big part of the day.
Marathon organizers are striving to maintain a balance between serious racing and family fun and they think they are on the right course.
For racers, there will be some challenging stretches of trail and cash prizes of bags of loonies for the winners.
For those wanting an enjoyable and scenic ski on recreational trails, that is offered on the shorter distances.
Checkpoint juice and snack stations have always been a big part of the marathon. Often manned by costume clad volunteers, they offer a welcome break for skiers. A new addition this year is an extra checkpoint, which has been added at the Beanstalk Cabin, two km from the 99 Mile Stadium start point. Along with a snack, the rest stop will also offer a bit of culture, thanks to members of the Canim Lake Band who will be manning it.
It’s geared for the recreational skiers who will be able to pick up a snack of bannock and enjoy some traditional First Nations drumming.
“It’s something to add to the milieu. We’re trying to re-brand the marathon as Gold Rush, and First Nations people are a big part of that,” says Bolton.
At the end of the course, participants will be able to dig into a hearty bowl of chili, which will be made available by volunteers.
It’s not too late to enter and organizers are expecting a flood of local registrations on Feb. 11, when people can register in person at the 99 Mile Nordics Day Lodge, from 3 to 9 p.m.
Online registrations will be taken until Feb. 10 at www.100milenordics.com.
