Staff
For those who braved the cold Sunday, they were rewarded with a great day on the Rocky Inlet trails.
Some 20 skiers, ranging in age from four to 50+, participated in the Rainy Lake Nordic Ski Club’s first-annual “Rainy Lake Loppet.”
Erin and Brian Tolley finished first in the 1K classic race, both clocking in with a time of 11:45.
Meghan Spooner claimed second spot (32:26).
Lucy Himanen nabbed third (43:38) while both Elsa and Rebecca Himanen were fourth (46:41).
Elly Ahrens claimed top spot in the 3K classic race, clocking in at 24:59.
Carol Tolley nabbed second (26:02) while Alexandra Malgo was right behind in third (26:03).
Kayli Machura and Jaida Norris were the only competitors in the 3K skate race–both finishing with an identical time of 27:31.
Megan Ross (17:31) took top spot in the 5K skate race while Lorena Jenks (32:46) was second.
Ilka Milne was the lone skier in the 7.5K skate women’s division, finishing with a time of 45 minutes even.
Steve Johnson was first in the men’s 7.5K skate 50-and-over division, clocking in at 39:04, while Burgess Eberhardt was second (47:31).
And in the 7.5K skate men 50-and-under division, Matt Chalmers was top dog with a time of 30:02.
Arthur Van Ael nabbed second (32:32) while Aidan DeGagne was third (56:25).
“We owe the success of this event to Matt Chalmers, who brainstormed and worked tirelessly to make it all happen,” enthused club president JoAnne Formanek Gustafson.
“Under his direction, others lent a hand [as] Tara Tolley took care of race-day registration, as well as hot chocolate, while I worked as a timer, with back-up help from Brian Tolley.
“Andrea Avis shared her skills in designing posters to promote the event, as well as designing magnets and zipper pulls for participants,” Formanek Gustafson added.
“The magnets are a unique alternative to ribbons, and we hope that participants will look at these and remember the fun and fellowship that was enjoyed today.”
Formanek Gustafson also noted the contributions of Lorena Jenks and Meghan Spooner, who baked treats for the skiers to enjoy afterwards.
“Finally, I’d also like to thank this week’s groomer, John Bagacki, as well as our dedicated fire starter, Mike Willick,” she remarked.
“We are truly fortunate to have such a great pool of volunteers,” she enthused.
“If you didn’t attend this year, consider it for next year as all skills levels are welcome and we would love to see you take part,” Formanek Gustafson concluded.
