American Cross Country Skiers (AXCS) and The Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (MBSEF) will host the 2007 National Masters Cross Country Skiing Championships on Mt. Bachelor’s Nordic trail system, March 21-25. The event will offer classic, skate, skiathlon and relay races and serve as the U.S. National Championship for citizen skiers age 25 and older.
Ben Husaby, MBSEF Nordic Director, says snow conditions will be ideal for the event. “While most of the country has struggled with low snow conditions, we’re lucky that Mt. Bachelor has had consistent snowfall throughout the winter and the latest storm has dumped over two feet of powder.†Husaby encourages potential racers to visit www.mtbachelor.com to preview conditions. “We’re hoping that people come to Bend for these races and get their fill of the skiing and snow conditions that they’ve been missing out on in many places throughout the country,†said Husaby. “Besides racing on exciting courses in excellent conditions, skiers will enjoy the National Masters social gatherings and outings as well as great restaurants and shopping. Bend is truly a great place to visit in the spring.â€
According to event promoter J.D. Downing, the National Masters event is scheduled at the end of the race season to minimize conflicts with ski marathons and regional races. Also, the schedule has been condensed so that racers can take part in the event and miss only 3 weekdays from home or work. Downing also notes that the National Masters event is a good tune up for individuals who may race in the World Masters Championships which will be just next-door in McCall, Idaho in 2008.
Complete event information for the 2007 National Masters Championships is available at www.xcskiworld.com Click on Performance and follow the 2007 National Master Link. Online registration is set up at www.mbsef.org Click on the Nordic Races link. Entries can also be printed and mailed. All profits will benefit the junior racing programs of MBSEF.
Volunteers are needed for both events. If you wish to volunteer on March 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25 you will receive an Alpine day pass or two Nordic day passes to Mt. Bachelor for each day that you volunteer.
All questions can be directed to the MBSEF Nordic Department at (541) 388-0002. Any questions regarding registration and volunteers can be addressed to the race administrator Knut Joslin at kjoslin@mbsef.org
