WinterStart Races Happened

This was actually the Winter RE-Start Race. On the original scheduled date of Dec. 6 the wind was howling, the snow was falling horizontal and the course was heavily drifted. Since the only open trails were largely in the open and exposed, racing was basically impossible so the race was postponed until the following week in hopes of better weather. Well, today the wind was howling, the snow was falling horizontal and the course was drifting. One big difference, though: enough snow had fallen through the week that we were able to open the sheltered trails in the trees and with some feverish grooming by Jon Canty right up to race time, the race was a go. The snow turned out to be fast and impressive times were turned in on a slightly shortened course. Dave Aschwanden and Christie Aschwanden came in one and two overall to capture the male and female wins in the Classic race.

The weather continued to deteriorate. We considered calling the skate race but then decided to announce the race and if anyone showed up at the start line, we would send them around and time them. Twentyfive such crazies lined up so the race was on. Jon Canty took the grader around the course one more time and they were off! Again it was Aschwandens one and two in very fast times. No Search and Rescue was needed and we raised some money for the grooming fund which will come in handy with all of the new snow. Thanks to all you brave souls that took part. It was fun, wasn't it?

Ela Family Farms and Loki Outdoor Gear generously provided prizes. The Loki products were just the ticket for these conditions. Once again this season Clif Bar is providing a generous spread of Clif Bars, Luna Bars and Clif Blocks to keep everyone energized and properly fueled. Racers also got to try a new product out of Gunnison called Acli-Mate, an energy drink mix specifically formulated to enhance high altitude performance. Please thank and support these great sponsors. We're also indebted to our stalwart volunteers Tom Fanticone and Shirley Ela who made it all happen.

Tom Ela
434-9753
nachtambule@aol.com