THUNDER BAY – It’s an exciting weekend for Port Arthur Ski Club teammates Madison Sundell and Norah Moir.
The pair are among a group of 100 young skiers that are competing in a three-day slalom and giant slalom event at Mount Baldy.
“It’s one of my favourite races of the year,” Sundell said. “I get to compete at home and I get to ski one of my favourite runs (the Hornet) on Mount Baldy.”
“All of my friends are out here supporting me and it makes me feel a lot stronger out there,” Moir added.
For coach Dave Bradley, that level of excitement from the local skiers is something he looks forward to during this meet.
“They’re looking forward to seeing how they do against their fellow competitors and their friends,” Bradley added.
“I’m sure there’s quite a few mini-competitions going on here.”
In addition to the host Port Arthur Ski Club, Thunder Bay is also being represented by the Norwesters Alpine Club and TBFAST.
The Searchmont Ski Runners, who are located north of Sault Ste. Marie, have made the eight-hour trek to take part in the meet.
“I think there’s a number of things that we hope that our skiers can take away from this weekend,” Ski Runners coach Mike Lesnick said.
“Obviously there’s the thrill of competition, but there’s also new friendships and bonds that they are creating through the team experience, plus their continuing athletic development.”
During the course of the winter, local downhill skiers are travelling around Ontario and across Canada to earn points to compete at provincial and national meets.
The Mount Baldy meet gives the competitors a rare chance to showcase their skills in front of family and friends.
“It’s really exciting for the whole community when we have these races,” Bradley said.
“It’s not just that way for the skiers. It’s for our volunteers and the organizers. All of these people are getting a chance to practice hosting races and events, which is really important for the future.”
The meet got underway Friday afternoon with the slalom competition.
Giant slalom and slalom races are taking place on Saturday and Sunday starting at 8:30 a.m.
