The weather was fantastic for the Nipika/Toby Creek Nordic Loppet Weekend that took place at Nipika Mountain Resort on Saturday (February 2) and Sunday (February 3).

Over 180 cross country skiers took part in the Nipika Classic Loppet on Saturday, with nearly 30 of the participants under the age of 8. On Sunday, more than 110 participated in the Toby Creek Skate Loppet.

Although there was a technical issue with the groomer losing a track on Friday night, the track’s maintenance was “superb,” according to the Nipika newsletter.

On Saturday, Ian Murray was the first of 61 competitors to complete the 30 km Classic with a time of 1:27:19.3. His female counterpart, Karen Messenger, finished 15th overall with a time of 1:49:53.8.

Top male finisher in the 20 km skate on Sunday was again Ian Murray with a time of 0:50:50.6 while Rhonda Jewett was the first woman to cross the finish line in a time of 0:53:46.4.

There were 30 athletes to complete the full distance on both days — the 30 km on Saturday and the 20 km on Sunday. Those competitors now qualify for the Nipika Mountain Challenge and must successfully complete the 25 km Crazy Soles Nipika Trail Run and 50 km Kootenay Krusher Endurance Mountain Bike Event for a chance to win the grand prize — a two-night stay at Nipika Resort Mountain.

For the full race results from both days, visit www.new.zone4.ca and select Toby Creek Nordic & Nipika Resort: Nordic Weekend February 2 and February 3.