Calling all monsters to take out their skis and head to the Log Cabin Ski Trails on March 9.
That’s when the 2024 Buckwheat International Ski Classic will be happening, with racers set to take on 32-kilometre, 16-kilometre and 10-kilometre races in the adult categories and a five-kilometre race in the 12 and under category.
With a theme titled “A Buckwheat Odyssey: Monster, Myths & Mischief,” participants are invited to “bring out the creatures from your favourite myths around the globe,” organizers said in a statement.
The winner of the best costume prize will receive an overnight package to the Upper Dewey Lake cabin in Skagway.
The popular race, which will mark its 37th year on March 9, is a fundraiser for the Log Cabin Ski Society, with volunteers grooming and setting tracks for the 30-plus kilometres of cross-country ski trails at the Log Cabin, about 43.2 kilometres north of Skagway and 133 kilometres south of Whitehorse on the South Klondike Highway. The site is maintained by Recreation Sites & Trails BC.
As noted in its statement, the ski society was formed in 2012 to continue the race that was founded by Buckwheat Donahue and keep the trails maintained for users. Trail conditions are posted on the group’s website throughout the winter.
Timing chips will be issued to racers, who can start anywhere between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Yukon time. For those who like the excitement of a mass start, they can begin with the larger group at 11:30 a.m. Yukon time for the 32 kilometre, 11:45 a.m. Yukon time for the 16 kilometre, noon Yukon time for the 10 kilometre and 12:15 p.m. Yukon time for the kids’ five kilometre.
A themed aid station will also serve as a gathering spot for racers and volunteers, with food and drinks available.
The course will close at 4 p.m. Yukon time, with the festivities then set to move into Alaska with an awards ceremony at the Eagles Hall Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Yukon time.
Along with special awards such as the best costume and a ski society members-only draw for a pair of skis, the top three finishers in each race will receive medals.
Approximately 100 volunteers are needed for the race, with volunteers invited to sign up at http://buckwheatskiclassic.com, by emailing logcabinskisociety@gmail.com or by calling or texting Jeff Brady at (907)973-2354.
Potential racers can also register via the Buckwheat Ski Classic website.
Contact Stephanie Waddell at stephanie.waddell@yukon-news.com