A happy Chuck O’Callaghan at the finish line after 50K of skiing in the Lake Louise to Banff Loppet
It was another fun-filled ski race today. Adding to the adventure was 6 cm of fresh snow on the trail which fell between 6 a.m. – 9 a.m. this morning. It slowed us down but it also covered every pine needle in existence although there were very few to begin with.
Wes Savill was the overall winner in a time of 3 hours, 25 minutes and 48 seconds. Ian Daffern was 61 seconds behind in second place. The fastest team, the Snow Dogs, finished in 3:29:42.
The winning time was 22 minutes slower than last year which could be attributed to the fresh snow. We had fast tracks in 2014.
We could only go 50K this year rather than the usual 71 because of the washed-out Healy creek bridge. For the past two years it’s been the Lake Louise to Sawback loppet.
The snow temperature at the start was -6°C and remained cold throughout the day. Air temperature was -8 at the start and -3 at the finish. The Baker creek to Castle Lookout trail has never been in better condition.
SkierBob hands off to Barbara at Baker creek
Exactly 100 skiers started the race on the lake at 9 a.m. consisting of 48 solo skiers and 52 relay teams. My team placed 17th. Peter had to make a dramatic last leg pass of the Lady Lumberjacks or we would have been 18th. The first leg was hard work with all the fresh snow but I pulled into Baker creek with a time of 1:36:05. Last year, I did that same leg in 1:35:25, but was pacing myself because I was skiing for the entire 50K.
Thanks to all the volunteers and organizers who make this delightful race so enjoyable for all the participants.
Lake Louise to Banff loppet results.
The Loppet website has posted some photos.
Story in the Rocky Mountain Outlook Ski jumper wins Lake Louise to Banff Loppet
Story in the Bow Valley Crag and Canyon Savill, Young tops among loppet skiers
Could that be a photo of Skier Bob hot on the heals of Robo-skier Chuck? -)
The closest that Chuck got to me was at the start line. In all fairness, however, Chuck was pacing himself so he could last for the entire 50K. -Bob
Wonderful report and great photos, Bob. Thanks for sharing them!
I agree with Helen. A wonderful mug shot of Chuck.
What scares me is that Chuck has the look on his face as if to say, “Where do we ski after lunch?” -)
Thanks, Henry. I’ve adjusted the photo to reflect those words.
Finally a picture OF Chuck and what a terrific photo it is-a definite keeper… but where was Helen with the Mt Begbie Tall Timber Ale to congratulate you with??? Great job to Bob for the photo and Chuck for the accomplishment!!!