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New England ski marathon series comes to
Sugarloaf on Feb. 12
Wednesday,
January 19, 2005
CARRABASSETT
VALLEY, Maine - Whether it’s the thrill of long distance competitive skiing or
just the idea of challenging yourself in a structured environment, the Banknorth
Sugarloaf Ski Marathon on Feb. 12, 2005 offers something for Nordic skiers of
all abilities. This event is expected to draw hundreds of skiers from all over
New England and Eastern Canada and promises to be an exciting day of top-notch
racing and fun camaraderie.
The 50 Km Marathon (2 loops) and the 25 Km Half Marathon will wind through the
popular trail network of the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center set against the unique
backdrop of Maine’s Western Mountains. The courses promise challenging climbs,
thrilling descents, and breathtaking views.
This is the first ski marathon at Sugarloaf in nearly a decade and has been
brought back to western Maine by the NENSA New England Marathon Series. This is
the second of four ski marathons throughout New England this winter. “We wanted
to bring an event here that offered a different kind of competition,” said Sue
Foster, Sugarloaf’s Outdoor Center manager. “This event is something that
appeals to the serious competitor and those who are out there just to have fun.”
Participants can ski in either a timed or untimed category for either the 50 km
or 25 km distance. While many skiers will be competing for the fastest times,
Foster estimates that a third of the field or more will be out to tackle the
course at their own pace. “Many folks will carry a backpack, stop at all the aid
stations, and just enjoy the day touring,” Foster said. “It’s a good goal to set
for yourself. It’s one of those things that keeps you motivated to get out and
ski to get ready for it.”
The course will open on Friday, Feb. 11 for inspection and registration. An
all-you-can-eat pasta dinner will be served Friday evening. Skiers will line up
at 8:45 am on Saturday for a 9 am start. A celebratory post race meal will be
served at 11:30 am. Registration for all events of the Sugarloaf Ski Marathon
closes at 8 pm on Feb. 11.
For more information and to register for this exciting new Sugarloaf event, log
on to www.sugarloafskimarathon.com or call the Outdoor Center at 237-6830.
About Sugarloaf/USA Ski Resort - Located in Carrabassett Valley, Maine,
Sugarloaf/USA is recognized among the top ski and golf resorts in the world.
Sugarloaf/USA is part of the American Skiing Company family of resorts. Its
resorts include Killington and Mount Snow in Vermont; Sunday River and
Sugarloaf/USA in Maine; Attitash in New Hampshire; Steamboat in Colorado and The
Canyons in Utah.
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