Gatineau, February 11, 2021 – The Virtual Gatineau Loppet kicks off this Saturday, February 13. More than 700 participants are already registered and they will have until Sunday, February 28 to complete their distance.
This year’s edition allows all athletes to participate regardless of their level and no matter where they live in the world. Indeed, the Virtual Gatineau Loppet is a personal challenge not a competition: “Our virtual event is to add fun as well as a dose of challenge in the lives of our athletes. They can ski on their favourite trail or at their preferred cross-country ski centre. We want participants to complete their distance at their own pace and be proud of their accomplishment. The results will be posted in alphabetical order only so everyone’s a winner!” says Louise Poirier, President of the Gatineau Loppet.
From February 13 to 28, participants are invited to visit the Gatineau Loppet’s Facebook page or website to participate in the daily activity or contest even if they have already completed their distance. In collaboration with Tourisme Outaouais, participants are also invited to post a photo of themselves on social media and use #outaouaisfun and #gatineauloppet for a chance to win one of two prizes worth more than $350 each.
Several distances are available at a minimal cost of $15.00 + taxes and fees: 10 km, Challenge 10 km, 25 km or 50 km. The classic Mini 2 km is also back for the little ones at a cost of $5.00 + taxes and fees. Several sports are accepted in order to allow a maximum of people to participate: cross-country skiing (classic or free technique), fatbike, snowshoeing, biking, roller skiing, and running.
Although distances can be done anywhere, easy and more difficult courses will be posted on the Gatineau Loppet website for local skiers who wish to complete the 10 km, 25 km and 50 km distances in beautiful Gatineau Park. Signage will also be installed along the trails to further guide skiers. A daily or season pass will be required to access the park.
In addition, each participant who has completed a distance will receive, in his Raceroster account, a printable certificate confirming his or her participation in the Virtual Gatineau Loppet. A neck warmer will also be sent by mail to highlight this great accomplishment.
Interested participants can register until February 28 at noon at gatineauloppet.com/?lang=en.
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.
– 30 –
For interview requests:
Annie Boucher
Fuse Communications
613-863-3702
aboucher@fusecommunications.ca