Written by Rangeley Lakes Trails Center staff
Traditionally held on the first weekend of March, the Rangeley Loppet is always a crowd pleaser, with many repeat participants and rekindling of old friendships. This year was no exception! The crew at the Rangeley Lakes Trails Center pulled out all the stops to host an exciting event, rising above the challenges from Mother Nature. On a course shortened by lack of snow, 36K, 18K and 9K races were held Saturday and Sunday.
Saturdays 36K brought a thrilling finish in the men’s race, with William Riley edging out Victor Sparks and Eske Ronneau for the win. Topping the women’s 36K field was Lucy Hochschartner with Agnes Macy in second and Francisca Feist in third. Another close finish in the 18K FS men’s race saw Walt Shepard squeaking out the win over Jordi St. John, with Jack Pierce in third.
In the men’s Burt Kettle classic, Anders Vikstrom took first with Joe Holland second and Dyhan Nirmegh third. In the women’s race, Elizabeth Ransom placed first with Valentine Desplat second. The 10K classic men’s race winner was Vim Smith with Jerry Curico second. Special mention goes out to three youngsters racing in the
18K- Marco Lombardo, Peter Colianni, and Ben Hankens.
