By Derek Cornet

Hundreds compete in Don Allen Saskaloppet

Mar 3, 2018 | 3:00 PM

Hundreds of skiers from across the province are in La Ronge for the 35th annual Don Allen Saskaloppet.

Around 320 skiers registered this year and either began the race Friday or Saturday at the mass start downtown at 10 a.m., according to La Ronge Ski Club chairperson Dorothy Looyestein. There were seven competitions athletes could join, ranging from a five kilometres trek to an overnight, 77-kilometre Robertson Trading Kupesewin.

“Competitions also serve different recreational experiences, whether skiers are competitive or just out to enjoy the nice scenery,” Looyestein said, adding it’s nice to see so many people taking part 35 years on. “A lot of events don’t last that long, but part of the reason it lasts is because there’s a lot of community involvement, sponsors and, most importantly, volunteers. We also have a good working relationship with the Lac La Ronge Provincial Park.”

Athletes from Ontario and Alberta also competed, Looystein said, but most people hail from La Ronge, Sucker River, Île-à-la-Crosse, Weyakwin, Prince Albert, Saskatoon and Regina. 

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She expects the final skiers to cross the finish line at 4 p.m.

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno