A surge in the number of entries for the Royal LePage Comox Valley Snow To Surf Relay has brought the number of teams to a quarter of the total that will toe the starting line on April 29.
One reason for the rush of entries is a recent rule change that allows teams with as few as four members to compete in the eight legs of the event, which starts with the unique uphill-downhill alpine leg. The uphill trudge separates the eagles from the turkeys, and allows a safe slide to the hand-off to the Nordic team member.
The rule change makes it easier for out-of-towners to assemble a team and journey to the Comox Valley and the Mount Washington Alpine Resort, the event host.
Most other sport and recreational events, from ball tournaments to golf trips, cluster the like-minded. The Snow to Surf pulls together a more cosmopolitan grouping where skiers, runners, paddlers and cyclists race elsewhere. Friendships are formed in this multi-disciplined setting which continue over years.
The pre-race gathering on Mount Washington and the post-race awards and beer garden seal these friendships, and build respect and lasting bonds.
Registration and race info can be found at www.snowtosurf.com.