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About the Loppet[français] First held in 1972, the Viking Loppet embraces the traditions of the past as it celebrates its 47th year. On February 24, the Loppet will be part of Morin-Heights’ Fest’Hiver, continuing a close relationship to promote cross-country skiing in the region. There will be three classic-style events – the Jan-Nordström 5-km, The Jack Wahlberg 10-km and the Smith-Johannsen 20-km races. All races will take place on the club’s Racing Trails, and participation will be limited to a total of 200 skiers. The 5-km Jan Nordström Loppet is named after a former president of the Viking Ski Club who, for many years, looked after the club’s extensive trail system. Jan passed away in 1997. The 10-km event is named after Folke “Jack” Wahlberg, who was a former cross-country ski champion and represented Canada in world championships. Jack passed away in 1988. Meanwhile, our 20-km Smith-Johannsen Loppet is named in honour of the well-known cross-country ski pioneer, Herman “Jackrabbit” Smith-Johannsen, a long-time honorary member of the Viking Ski Club who died in 1987 at the age of 111. In the spirit of these skiers, all Loppet participants will compete on the Racing Trails through forests and valleys, and over hills and across frozen ponds. Unpredictable weather has not been kind to the Loppet in recent years. Having all the races on one set of well-groomed trails will better the chances for a safe and enjoyable event. The start and finish of all Loppet events will be at the newly renovated “Skip’s Hut”, with parking and waxing located at the Viking Ski Club’s clubhouse on Jackson Road in Morin-Heights. Video clip of the 2013 Morin-Heights Viking Loppet, posted by Loïc Bellemare-Alford, Viking Club member Loppet HistoryThe Morin-Heights Viking Loppet is organized - on a non-profit basis - by the Viking Ski Club. We are very grateful for the continued support of the Municipality of Morin-Heights, our sponsors and the more than 100 volunteers that make each Loppet a fun and memorable one. Legacy |
