The P'ayak is back.
The second annual Sigge's P'ayakentsut is set to hit the trails for the second time at Whistler Olympic Park (WOP) and it should prove to be another busy day at the park.
The race came about through the organization of the Callaghan Winter Sports Club (CWSC) in partnership with cross-country ski clubs in North Vancouver, Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton.
A variety of races for all ages and abilities on world-class recreational trails are being offered. Race distances for adults are 15, 30 and 50 kilometres, with racers allowed to use either skate or classic technique. The family event will also feature a fun ski tournament for children aged five to 9 and a team ski cross for 10- to 13-year-olds. All children participating will be rewarded with ribbons, cakes or cookie medals. New for this year is the P'ayak Youth 15, in which kids aged 13 to 17 can tackle a 15-kilometre race.
Medals will be offered in five-year categories for both the 30- and 50-kilometre events and racers will vie for nine pairs of high-end skis from Salomon. Additional cash prizes will also be offered for prime events between the aid stations. This is a race within the race, similar to cycling events. After the race, there will be an awards ceremony as well as hundreds of prizes doled out.
Last year's winners included Brian May of Salmon Arm (50 km) and Whistler's Dave Burch (30 km).
The P'ayakentsut is scheduled to take place on Saturday (Feb. 25) starting at 10 a.m. For more information on the event, visit www.payak.ca.
