Ski season in full swing with return of the Corkstown Classic

Aiden Kirkham celebrating with young fun at the Corkstown Classic on Sunday Feb. 9, 2025 (Josh Marano, CTV News Ottawa)

A record-setting 267 skiers were at Kanata Nordic Ski Club for the third edition of the Corkstown Classic competitive races.

Participants ranged from eight to 50-year-olds, with every skill level able to participate.

Local clubs like Nakkertok, Chelsea Nordic, Shinouk, and Kanata Nordic were all represented, as well as a club from Canmore, Alta. They are partnered with Chelsea Nordic, giving young children the chance to travel for more skiing opportunities across the country.

Sunday morning saw a high of -4 C with sun. According to club administrator Ardeth Kirkham, it was the perfect day for their competition.

“It’s just the best, to have an event go off successfully,” Kirkham said. “Everything goes better when there’s sun. We’re so lucky to have the sun (and) to have the snow. It makes everybody feel good.

“We’ve got some snow in huge numbers. This is the biggest race we’ve ever had; the vibe is super good.”

Only a few weeks ago, Kirkham says they weren’t sure if they were going to have the races due to lack of snow.

Thanks to recent storms and consistent snowfalls, including one Sunday morning that brought an extra four centimetres. Race coordinator Andy Weekes says groomers were able to get out early and make sure the trails were packed.

“We weren’t sure how much snow was going to come out night, but they thought about that and ended up coming out at 3 a.m., finished up around 5 a.m. to sort of get the optimal groom for today,” Weekes said.

“I’m excited that there’s a good possibility we’ll be going into March, especially with the snow that’s coming this week,” Kirkham added. “It looks like maybe we’re going to get slammed.”