Skiers of all ages and stages hit the slopes at Kinosoo Ridge for the annual Blizzard Blast competition.
The two-day event was hosted March 30 and 31, and saw over 75 skiers take part.
Cold Lake Blizzards coach Jarred Pawlowski described it as a successful competition all-around.
“With the amount of smiles and everything going around, I would say fantastic... I think we claimed that we were the loudest cheering team on the hill, which I think is fantastic,” he expressed.
The event was originally scheduled for February, but due to freezing temperatures, was rescheduled.
“Originally, we were anticipating over 200 racers for this event, but unfortunately with spring break in Edmonton, other clubs having year-end ski camps, and other things, it is what it is. Having a smaller race like this, we actually feel added to it because a lot of the teams that have come up from the city have commented that it has a different vibe and feel, and everybody is having a blast,” noted Pawlowski.
The local club came out on top in multiple categories, including nine-year-old Dylan Dechaine.
“I think I did great. I had lots of fun racing,” he said.
Michael Levesque also found himself on the podium.
“I pushed harder and tucked a lot,” Levesque described.
Cruz Harris believes his confidence played a role in the success he saw.
“Before, I was a little scared, but now I believe in myself more, so I think I’ve done better.”
All of the skiers agreed having a competition on their home hill is a plus.
Not only can they hear their friends and family cheer them on, but they also get a chance to show off their stomping grounds.
“With all of the clubs from Red Deer, Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, and everywhere else, a lot of clubs are based in Edmonton, so the travel is generally to the mountains. Putting Cold Lake on the map for the alpine circuit, and showing everyone what we have to offer between the runs, the conditions, the chalet, the staff, and seeing where all of our racers, where they’re usually very extremely competitive... they come here and see why we’re making a name for ourselves,” noted Pawlowski.
The race marks the end of their season, which Pawlowski described as incredible.
“The kids did phenomenal. We had very good finishings in all of the races that we’ve entered. The progression of the skill level from the kids, from the five-year-olds all the way up to the 14-year-old, and even older, it’s always amazing that for a group of volunteer parents, as coaches... the crew here is phenomenal, everybody just dives right in.”
