PRESS RELEASE
Gatineau, March 1, 2021 – More than 1,500 skiers from 25 different countries took part in the first virtual edition of the Gatineau Loppet, which took place over the last 16 days!
The athletes were able to complete their 10, 25 or 50 km distance from February 13 to 28:
“I’ve competed a few editions of the Gatineau Loppet so this year was no exception. I signed up for the virtual edition so that this nice race can continue to take place in the future, and it also kept me in shape by practicing cross-country skiing and fatbiking this winter,” said Benjamin Dumont, participant of the Virtual Gatineau Loppet.
Thanks to the generosity of many partners, participants were also invited to take part in contests and activities each day on social media and on the Gatineau Loppet website.
To the delight of the organizers, the virtual event generated a great deal of enthusiasm among skiers:
“We wanted to keep the spirit of the Gatineau Loppet alive with this virtual edition. We had an initial goal of 750 participants and we are extremely happy and amazed to have doubled that goal! It’s heartwarming to see that so many participants took on the virtual challenge!” said Louise Poirier, President of the Gatineau Loppet.
For many participants, the virtual edition marked their first participation in the Gatineau Loppet:
“We were able to reach people who probably would not have travelled to Gatineau for an in-person event. The virtual edition also allowed novice cross-country skiers to challenge themselves and complete their distance without pressure. It’s a great way to realize a personal challenge,” says Louise Poirier.
All participants will receive a Gatineau Loppet neck warmer by mail in recognition of their achievement.
The organizers are looking forward to seeing skiers at the 44th edition of the Gatineau Loppet, which will take place February 18 to 20, 2022!
About the Gatineau Loppet:
The Gatineau Loppet is Canada’s largest international cross-country skiing event. As part of the Worldloppet international event series, the Gatineau Loppet welcomes approximately 2,500 skiers from around the world each year. The event usually takes place during the month of February in beautiful Gatineau Park, and offers several events of varying distances, allowing all cross-country ski enthusiasts to find a challenge that suits them.
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Annie Boucher
Fuse Communications
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