The Strathcona Nordics took the mainland by storm this past weekend, sending a grand total of 25 racers to Whistler Olympic Park’s cross-country ski trails for their first race of the season.
With fresh snow and blue skies, the team could not have asked for better conditions, nor a keener crew.
The Nordics came away from the race with all athletes placing in the top 10, and 20 athletes leaving with medals.
“It was a fantastic start to our 2015/2016 racing season and I’m really proud of our group of athletes,” said Head Coach Andrea Stapff.
“Our racers set out to make an impression, and they all succeeded in doing so.”
Hailing from Campbell River, Gavin Chatterton and Emmy Stapff both placed first in their age groups. Anna Chatterton, also from Campbell River, had an excellent race and placed 3rd.
The Comox Valley had an even bigger showing of racers, with Hugo Henckel, Naomi Swift, Carson Damery, Aiden Noble, Matthew Salmon and Connor McGrady, all winning their respective categories.
Stapff says that her athletes have been training hard since May.
“It’s really great to be on snow and put all that preparation into action.
“This race was a good primer for some of the bigger races coming up.”
The next race for the Nordics will be Dec. 12 and 13 at Sovereign Lakes, in Vernon, B.C.
The Nordics will be going head to head with the best athletes from across the province, as well as teams from Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and the Yukon.
Visit StrathconaNordics.com for more information about events and programs.