Cross-country ski race returns to Windsor Park

Cross-country skiers take part in the Prairie Holiday Loppet at Windsor Park on Dec. 28, 2024. (Zachary Kitchen/CTV News Winnipeg)

The Prairie Holiday Loppet made its long-awaited return to Winnipeg’s Windsor Park Saturday, with dozens of racers hitting the trails.

A loppet is a Scandinavian cross-country skiing event that sees a large group of people ski together on groomed trails. After a soggy winter season last year, organizer Murray Carter was happy the event could make a comeback.

“Because we had a little bit of a melt yesterday, we ended up shoveling for nine hours,” Carter said. “Four of us shoveled for nine hours to make this trail a great success, and it turned out perfect.”

Carter said the event sees people come from across the country, most of which are visiting loved ones for the holidays.

“It’s about a festive experience,” he said.

Participants ranged from beginners to veteran athletes.

Olympic cyclist Leah Kirchmann put her bike away and broke out her cross-country skis for Saturday’s event.

Kirchmann said she grew up taking part in cross-country skiing races and decided to get back into the sport.

“This is really where I got my start in sport,” she said.

While Kirchmann said she doesn’t plan on competing in the Winter Olympic Games anytime soon, she is coaching cycling for the next generation of athletes.

She also emphasized the community aspect of the event, allowing her and others to see new faces and connect with old ones.

Meantime, Carter encouraged more people to get involved.

“Get out. Get some skis. Rent some skis at Windsor Park, try out,” he said. “There's nothing like the winter and getting outside in the winter and enjoying the sunshine, enjoying the snow

“That in itself is a reward."