Hundreds of Nordic Skiers Compete at Larch Hills – Okanagan

Hundreds of Nordic skiers ran around a track, climbed a hill and crossed the finish line while competing in Teck BC Cup 2 at the Larch Hills ski area in Salmon Arm, BC

All ages are welcome to test their skills in one of a series of seven Teck BC Cup races. Skiers participate in a variety of races such as a 12 km race, a 15 km race and a one kilometer race depending on age.

“We have 500 riders racing cross country from all over BC and Alberta and today they are sprinting… where each one out individually. Based on their speed, they are heated and this afternoon they warmed up when there were five or six skiers at once. The first person to cross the line is the winner,” said Alan Corbett, head of competition.

The track cuts through the ski area so spectators and parents can run alongside the competitors to cheer them on and watch them cross the finish line.

Many members of the Larch Hills Junior Race Team have strategies to win them all.

“Do good, have fun and don’t be too hard on yourself,” says 12-year-old Lily Ewanshyn.

13-year-old Sapphira Bucher is ready to tame her heat, by taking the lead and not giving up.

“It’s really good. My skates are fast, and I did really well in my qualifiers, so I’m excited for the hot bouts,” Bucher said.