Tartu Ski Marathon on the 18th of February
On Sunday the 18th February 07, the 37th Tartu Ski Marathon took place with 3165 competitors completing the 63 km race, with approximately 4170 competitors completing both events. The fact that the event was able to take place is a testament to the planning and industry of the organising committee, as truckload after truckload of snow was seen passing through the streets of Otepää and Elva to ensure that there was a complete cover of snow to provide adequate classic tracks for the full 63 km. Considering the thin layer of snow left after the open track event the previous week, this was a creditable achievement.
The race started in relatively mild conditions, being slightly overcast with a moderate wind. Conditions remained mild throughout the race, providing fast racing conditions, with a record finish time of 2hrs 42 mins, with the last competitor completing the course in 9hrs 45 mins.
Some IAWLS member results are:
- Herve Courtine FRA 4:26
- Grant McLeod CAN 5:08
- Gerard Mennetrier FRA 5:13
- Lois Nagl AUT 5:39
- Patrice Turlan FRA 5:57
- Colin Addison AUS 6:41
- Judy Barnes AUS 6:41
- Graham Leary AUS 8:17
- Tadashi Sato JAP 8:20
Open Track
On Sunday 11th February 2007 the Tartu Open track took place with approximately 120 skiers completing the 63 km event and additional competitors in the 2 shorter events.
The weather prior to the event has been very cold (-20 deg C for the preceding week) but no additional snow. Very wisely a sachel of skin protecting cream was provided in each entrant's registration kit. The event organisers have done a good job in preparing a clear skating path and classic tracks for the full 63 km distance using the limited snow available.
On the day of the open track, it was clear and sunny again with an overnight temperature of -22 deg C rising to -18 deg for the start and a top of -13 deg with a cooling head wind. The cold dry conditions made for very abraisive snow with little glide and correct wax selection was essential.
Despite the small numbers completing the long event, logistical support was excellent, with bus transport, food stations (even providing my personal favorite blueberry soup). There was a warm changing tent at the end and your personal diploma of completion, showing your time, available for collection at the finish. This was followed by hot food and a bus back to your starting point.
Some IAWLS members' results are:
- Colin Addison AUS 6:55
- Madis Alev EST 5:09
- Judith Barnes AUS 6:55
- Krister Hamberg FIN 6.59
This page was last revised on September 7, 2007