After two years of anticipation, the “Soar Over Snow” BKL Festival surpassed all expectations! With well over 500 participants, this was the second largest Festival in over 6 years with children traveling to Maine from as far away as Rochester, NY. The host District, Maine, set a participation record for their District with over 160 Maine children taking part in the festivities. The BKL Festival had something for everyone with live birds presentations from Chewonki featuring two rehabilitating owls, laser biathlon with US Biathlon, an obstacle course, a Bump Jump, a Mini-Marathon with a bird search, a club parade of skiers, and races. And to top off the weekend, a real live Bald Eagle soared over the stadium for all to see!

On the racing front, Saturday featured the relay event which kicked off under bluebird skies and Sunday saw the individual start races. Spirits were high the entire weekend and even a bit of rain on Sunday couldn’t wipe the smiles off skiers’ faces.

Camaraderie, community, and joy were omnipresent at this celebratory youth ski event and photos speak louder than words to convey that.

We are so grateful to Quarry Road Trails and the City of Waterville for being incredible hosts. The BKL Organizing Committee dedicated considerable time, energy, and expertise to the planning and implementation of this event and the number of volunteers who stepped in to help was inspiring. We are also incredibly grateful to all the NENSA sponsors who support this event and we were honored to have Fischer and Skida join us in-person.

And last but not least, a huge thank you to all the participants, parents/caregivers, and coaches who joined us in Waterville, Maine. We hope to see you all again next year!

Race Results | Photos from Flying Point Road