A new Nordic relay event is coming to Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks has a new cross-country skiing relay event, and the format is sure to be fun for all ages and abilities.

On March 9, Sun Peaks Nordic Club (SPNC) will host its first-ever Team Relay Experience – or T-REX event. The day is a 6.5-kilometre adult circuit and a 1.3-kilometre kids course, with a party zone at the start and finish line featuring music, drinks, prizes and socializing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

President Ivor McMahen has been an avid cross-country skier for forty years, and he’s seen how hyper-competitive events in sports like Nordic skiing and mountain biking have caused a slowdown of recreational racers joining in. This decline is why he decided to opt for a social event instead of a race, creating a course that can be taken in stride by competitive or casual skiers.

“I’ve seen over the years that many of the events that used to have hundreds of people have gotten smaller and smaller,” McMahen said. “All that’s left is the more serious competitive type of skiers, which is great. But it’s fun and exciting to be in an event, and I really wanted to encourage more recreational skiers to have a chance to experience that.”

Mountain biking competitions of late have used a multi-lap format, drawing in recreational riders, and McMahen hopes the same will be said for Nordic skiing.

The event’s time-limit format means that the race ends simultaneously for everyone, so speedy skiers can get in more laps if they’d like, and recreational skiers can go at their own pace. No one waits around at the finish line for the last competitors, which helps boost attendees’ morale.

“The race is over at the same time for everybody. Nobody really knows who’s been faster or who’s not, so it’s a much more supportive environment.”

People can use skate or classic ski techniques or switch up their style throughout. People enter in teams of two or alone, and categories are based on gender and age.

Another benefit of the event is how many community members it brings together, as cross-country skiers often go it alone or with a small group. Because of the relay format, each partner on a relay team can socialize with fellow community members while resting their legs.

McMahen told SPIN cross-country skiing is an ideal sport to practice as people get older since it’s low impact. The stunning views and quiet tranquille trails are another benefit.

“It’s a really relaxing and peaceful alternative to alpine skiing.”

For more information on the event and to register, visit the SPNC’s website.