Second Annual Ellsworth Winter Carnival Snowshoe Race

The Second Annual Ellsworth Winter Carnival Snowshoe Race was  held at the Woodlawn Black House Trails, Bar Harbor, Maine on Saturday, February 14th, 2009. A huge Valentine’s gift came from Mother Nature with temperatures registering in the mild low-20 F range with beautifully clear skies and a wind to blow away any thoughts other than those of love. All enjoyed a packed snow base of six to ten inches in Down East Maine.

In the two mile race, Peter Keeney won with a hefty margin over Tom Kirby. Trish Hansen took first female gold.

A lot of enthusiasm is found at this small event but races such as the one held at the Ellsworth Winter Carnival hold the essence of racing on snowshoes: an athletic occasion in the wintry out-of-doors with friendly people who share an appreciation of using snowshoes for competition. What better way to enjoy winter? As the years pass, those who participate in these early years of this snowshoe race will remember the times with fondness.

Final results

2 Mile Snowshoe Race

1. Peter Keeney 16:26.
2. Tom Kirby 18:42.
3. Trish Hansen 20:37. 1st F
4. Sean Sullivan 21:11.
5. Dick Miles 23:22.
6. Diane Kay 27:40.
7. Ed Raymaker 27:42.
8. Patty Kirby 42:55.

It is important to recognize the businesses and groups who are key to making this race a reality, so as Peter Keeney and Ben Twitchell would say, “Give a big thanks to:”

Cadillac Mountain Sports
WRNX
Woodlawn Black House
Ellsworth Rec. Committee
all the volunteers

Peter also added, “Make sure to give the credit for the work done by Ben Twitchell and his family for snowshoeing today.”

Memo: Mark the calendars now for the 2010 Third Annual Winter Carnival and Snowshoe Race in February.

From material submitted by Peter and Ben. Comments or additions for this event and article, email phillipgary@snowshoemag.com, www.ultrasuperior.com.

United States Snowshoe Association: www.snowshoeracing.com.