The student led Race for Snow illustrates the resiliency of the community of skiers that live on the Atlantic Ocean in Boston, Massachusetts. It also portends the danger that climate change brings to our sport as we sit in the third season of La Nina. Despite the ominous tones, the Race for Snow and the Eastern Mass Cross Country club have created a setting for snow sport to thrive in one of the most unlikely places. The numbers, determination and skillful leadership of EMXC continue to produce and support exceptional skiers and human beings — they exemplify the mission that, “empowers lifelong learning, development and community-building through the sport of cross country skiing.”
Like many popular races that include all aged-skiers, the Race for Snow began with the Lollipoppers — some completely adept on theirs skis — and some perhaps having their first skinny ski experience. Their short out and back loop included two small climbs, but never left the line of sight of spectators. If you’ve never experienced a Bill Koch event, or it’s been a while since you have, stay up to date on the NENSA Calendar and warm your heart by attending one this winter!
Seven years ago, Tyler Lee, a then CSU skier, now Dartmouth ski team alum and Ford Sayre coach, had the vision to create the Race for Snow. He saw it as a way to motivate his community to support their passion of skiing and climate advocacy at the same time. Proceeds from the race have always been donated to 350.org or POW (Protect Our Winters). Lee is inspired by the legacy of the event, and stoked to see, “each generation of CSU (EMXC) skiers taking it on.” From rabid volunteerism, to animated pajama costumes, each generation of skiers has boosted the impact of the original mission. In the past few years, the 2023 Race for Snow now includes an online auction — which is open until the 29th and typically raises more money than registrations.
Back to the Race. During the third event of the evening a quick — a “hisp” happened — it was the first, of eight snow guns to be fired up on the night. While a concern of the student-led-organizing-committee — veteran DNC employees held their own course — “we have to make snow when we can.” Indeed, Weston was one of the first to employ artificial snow to make winter happen in the 80’s. And so even on on 500 meter loop, in Boston, you can enjoy seasonal snow changes in a single session. Perfect.
Despite the precipitous snowfall hitting most of the Northeast, Boston continues to flirt with frozen vs. liquid precipitation over the ten-day forecast. NENSA sends the biggest kudos to EMXC and the DNCR.
If you are interested in making an additional donation to support 350 Mass and the Race for Snow, our donation page is here: https://donate.protectourwinters.org/RaceForSnow2023. Many thanks!
