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Update from Haywood NorAm Cup Duntroon Races
By:  Team XC Ottawa   (2008/01/04)

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Highland’s Nordic ski club in Duntroon is hosting a series of selection races, which include the U-23 and Junior World Championship trials, and selection for the upcoming Canadian World Cup races in Canmore.

With one of the most competitive Canadian fields assembled to date this year, XC Ottawa athletes were off to a good start in Thursday’s pursuit race. The women’s 10k race featured Olympic medalists Sara Renner and Chandra Crawford, who are back from Europe and racing their first NorAm Cup races of the season. The women’s race was won by Sara Renner, followed closely by NorAm leader Madeleine Williams, and Tasha Betcherman finished third. Sheila raced well and finished in 10th, and Megan wasn’t far behind in 13th despite fighting off a cold. Alana raced in the junior selection race and finished a strong 8th.

The men’s race was contested on the same 2.5km loops as the women (4 x classic, 4 x skate). George Grey finished first, followed by Drew Goldsack in second, and Gord Jewett in third. Karl finished 13th, Ed was 17th, and Justin finished 28th.

Our classic skis were among the fastest out there, with the simple Vauhti tar minus covered with Vauhti green. Thanks again to John and to Graham Thomas for the superb waxing support.

The organizers faced cold temperatures (-29°C race morning), and a groomer that refused to start. Despite these challenges, they did an amazing job and after a 2-hour delay, skiers were greeted by perfectly groomed trails and a well-organized race.

Saturday Tom will join us and race the sprint freestyle races along with Megan, Justin, and Alana, while Sunday everyone will race the individual distance classic races in the predicted balmy temperatures.


Megan skiing the warm down with winner Sara Renner and Chandra Crawford


Chandra Crawford cheering on the Jr. racers.


Stefan Kuhn followed by George Grey.


Lead pack.


Lead men's pack lapping.


Men's pack.


Ed rounding the final corner.


Karl lapping with Cyrus Kangarloo and Harry Seaton in pursuit.

 
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