NEW PALTZ – As temperatures dip into the single digits, the New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce announced the only cross-country ski competition in the Hudson Valley. The New Paltz Challenge XC Ski Race will be held at Lake Minnewaska State Park on Saturday, February 6.
The race will have two divisions – a classic ski and a skate ski. Classic skiers move by striding forward whereas skate skiers move side-to-side in a skating motion.
Three courses will make up the race. The 2k, approximately 1.3 miles, fun ski will be an out and back course. There will also be a 5k, 3.1 miles, and a 10k or 6.2 mile ski for more advanced or competitive skiers.
The Shawangunk Nordic Ski Association (SNSA) is sponsoring the race and is working to create the best course.
When there is snow on the ground they will ski the course many times to get it ironed out, according to Eric Weigeshoff, a SNSA board member.
There is a great history of cross country ski racing at Minnewaska in
the 70s and 80s, he noted.
“What we are hoping is to bring back ski racing to Minnewaska and the area in general,” Weigeshoff said.
The chamber hopes to draw hundreds of participants to the race.
“We will promote our members through places to stay, where to eat, and activities, things to do in the area for the weekend,” said Kathy Prizzia, executive director New Paltz Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Online registration includes the entrance fee to the park and a t-shirt. There is a hut at the start/finish to warm up in.
Prizes for the top three men and women in each division will be gift baskets of products from local businesses.
