RUMFORD — After a successful first year, the Black Mountain Ski Resort will be hosting their second annual John Roderick Marathon, starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8.
Roger Arsenault, president of the Black Mountain board of directors, said Tuesday morning that the event went “very well” in 2013.
“We didn’t get a whole lot of competitors, but we did have a lot of people showing up for the event,” Arsenault said. “This year, so far, we’re looking at 20 people who have entered to compete, but usually, we get a lot of people entering at the last minute.”
According to the ski resort’s website, “participants can choose to race or tour using either freestyle or classical technique, and they can choose from 3km, 5km, 10km, 15km, 25km or 50km.” The race will begin at 10 a.m.
The conditions for the marathon are “excellent,” Arsenault said, adding that he’s expecting a great turnout.
One change that has been made for the second annual marathon is that the 25 and 50 km races will be recognized as part of the 2013/2014 New England Marathon Series and the Western Foothill Nordic Cup.
“As you grow, certain groups ask you to be a part of their point series,” Arsenault said. “This year, those racing in the 25 and 50 km races will have their points tallied towards those two groups. I’ve heard that there are people coming up from New York to race.”
The Chisholm Ski Club website states that “hot chocolate and food will be available at central locations” and that, following the race, there will be a “pizza party in the lodge.”
The John Roderick Marathon was created by the Chisholm Ski Club and named after the competitive skier who was a charter member for the club’s junior organization throughout the 1920s, according to marketing director Paige Carter.
Proceeds from the event will support the Chisholm Ski Club Youth Cross County programs and publishing costs of “The History of Chisholm Ski Club, A Little Club That Does Big Things,” according to the Chisholm Ski Club website.
An online registration has been set up at www.skireg.com/Net/john-roderick. Registration will also be available on the day of the event, starting at 8 a.m.
For registration prices, visit skiblackmountain.org.
Those interested in participating can also mail their registration fee to Chisholm Ski Club, P.O. Box 616, Rumford, ME 04276, along with whether they wish to race or tour, which technique they wish to use, which distance, and which series (if any).
mdaigle@sunjournal.com
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