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| Skate the Lake photos by: Ken Watson, 2004 |
| The first annual "Skate the Lake" speed skating marathon was held on Big Rideau Lake at Portland on January 31, 2004. A great success it had three events, a 5km race, a 10km race and a marathon 50km event. Some 50 participants took part in each event, cheered on by a good crowd of interested spectators. As can be seen from the photos, the types of participant varied. Some were clearly there to win, others (in the 5km and 10km events) were just out to have a great time. The organizers did a great job, clearing a 2.2 km track on the lake ice of Portland Bay. Participants took the cold temperatures (-12 C) and sometimes bumpy ice surface (all natural) in stride (all part of the challenge of the event). The sun managed to peek out a few times and hot chocolate at the local community hall kept organizers, participants and spectators nice and warm. For more information about the event, have a look at www.portlandoutdoors.com |
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