Amidst the crisp embrace of winter, the Canadian Ski Marathon (CSM) announces its 58th annual return, offering an extraordinary blend of endurance, community spirit, and the serene beauty of Canada’s winter landscape. This event, far more than a mere athletic competition, is aprofound celebration of the human spirit’s resilience against the chill of the Canadian winter.
Set against the backdrop of the scenic Laurentians, the CSM, established in 1966, has evolved into a hallmark of North American cross-country skiing. Its picturesque route, winding through classic groomed trails amidst forests and lakes, captures the imagination of winter sports aficionados. Held every February in the beautiful Outaouais region, the event invites participantsto embark on a journey centred around the charming Montebello area.
Unique in its structure, the CSM eschews the traditional race format. Instead, it unfolds as a personal skiing adventure, offering a range of distances from a modest 12 kms to the ambitious 160 kms. This inclusive approach caters to skiers of all ages and abilities, ensuring a rich and varied tapestry of participants.
Real Perriard, President of the Canadian Ski Marathon, encapsulates the event’s ethos, “It’s more than a marathon; it’s a winter adventure. Our focus is on participation, celebrating the spirit of being part of something greater than a race.” Indeed, the CSM’s charm lies not in the pursuit of speed, but in the joy of participation and the shared experience of braving winter.
As the event nears, anticipation ripples far beyond the local community. The CSM has attracted a diverse following, with participants journeying from the United States, western Canada, and as far as the Yukon. The event commences with an inaugural gathering at the iconic Chateau Montebello, marking the start of a two-day skiing journey through some of Canada’s most breathtaking winter landscapes.
The marathon’s structure is a finely woven tapestry of challenges, split into five sections each day, covering a total distance of about 80 kilometers. It offers categories like the ‘Tourer’ for a less demanding experience and the ‘Coureur des Bois’ for those seeking the ultimate challenge,including an overnight outdoor stay in sub-freezing temperatures.
Beyond the physical test, the CSM is a cultural cornerstone in Canadian winter sports. Originating as a centennial celebration, it has become a breeding ground for future Olympians and a source of inspiration for young skiers.
This year’s marathon reflects an adaptation to climate change and post-pandemic realities, focusing on sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint. Perriard and his team are dedicatedto delivering a safe, memorable experience, continually evolving with the dynamics of winter sports and community engagement.
As Perriard rallies winter sports enthusiasts, he reminds us, “It’s time to step out of the post-​COVID shadows and rediscover the joys of winter.” The Canadian Ski Marathon, in its essence, is not just a sporting event but a cultural phenomenon, uniting people across ages and skills in acelebration of winter’s challenge and beauty. For more details and to join this incredible winter adventure, visit the Canadian Ski Marathon website at https://skimarathon.ca/ .
Photo: Set to unfold in the frost-kissed Canadian landscape, the 58th annual Canadian Ski Marathon (CSM) promises a harmonious blend of endurance, communal camaraderie, and the tranquil splendor of winter’s embrace. (TF) Photo courtesy of the CSM
With notes from Mary Baskin, Marie-Eve Turpin and Lily Ryan