With typical unpredictability, Mother Nature has dealt a tough blow to several Nordic race courses around the country this winter, however, The Patagonia Owl Creek Chase is a go and the signature trail, the Owl Creek Trail from Snowmass to Aspen is in immaculate shape.
For the first time the Owl Creek Chase will be a part of the U.S. National Nordic Super Tour and will also serve as an Olympic Qualifier for next year’s Torino Olympics in Italy. Nordic Super Tour leaders Ivan Babikov of Russia and Karin Camenisch of Switzerland are expected to be on hand as well as 2004 Owl Creek Chase defending champions Nathan Schultz of Boulder, CO and Chantal Knapp of Louisville, CO.
The 25k skate race is slated for 10am on Saturday Feb. 12 starting at the Snowmass Cross Country Center and traversing across Sinclair Divide before descending through Buttermilk ski area and finishing at the Aspen Cross Country Center. For local skiers and enthusiasts from around the country this is a great opportunity to see how you stack up against some of the best in the country or just enjoy the incredible views from Snowmass to Aspen. Spectating is also encouraged at several locations along the route. Registration is still only $35 and on-line sign-up is still available until Feb. 11. For more information on the Patagonia Owl Creek Chase go to: utemountaineer.com and click on the winter events calendar / Owl Creek Chase.
