More than 130 cross country skiers turned out for the 26^th annual Northwestel Yukon Loppet on Saturday, organized by the Whitehorse Cross Country Ski Club.

Once again this year, the race attracted a wide variety of skiers in terms of their ages and skill levels, and even their home towns.

Three of the skiers who have taken part in the loppet for many years are more than 75 years of age. One of them, Ken Mulloy, has skied in every loppet since it began 26 years ago.

“This year’s race attracted a few out-of-towners,” said Sue Meikle, Northwestel Loppet Chief of Race. “A woman visiting from Nova Scotia took part, and a couple of twin brothers from Ontario participated, one of whom placed first in the 20-kilometre event. We also had a couple new to Whitehorse, who have just moved here from the Czech Republic. It’s great to welcome new skiers to this wonderful annual Whitehorse tradition.”

Weather conditions forced one significant change to the loppet. The race usually includes routes that are 3, 7.5, 20 and 30 kilometres long. This year, race officials cancelled the 30-kilometre distance because parts of the course were impassable. “Because of the blustery weather, our groomers were unable to complete the grooming on time and we felt the trail could pose safety concerns for both groomers and skiers,” said Meikle. “Thankfully, all our volunteers and skiers adapted wonderfully to the news, and all those registered in the 30-kilometre course raced the 20-kilometre route instead.”

“As the title sponsor, we were very pleased to see the great northern community spirit displayed once again at the Northwestel Yukon Loppet,” said Anne Kennedy, Northwestel Director Communications. “The loppet is such a great event for the whole family, and that’s one of the reasons we have been so happy to support it over the years.”

A number of awards were presented at the loppet banquet on Saturday evening.

In 2008, Northwestel contributed more than $670,000 in cash and in-kind donations to many northern community groups, including the 2008 Arctic Winter Games. Throughout its history, Northwestel has played a key role in the economic, social and cultural development of the North. Northwestel is recognised as a key contributor to the well-being of northern communities through its community investment program and the volunteer contributions of its employees.

Nort