Some BC Winter Games events are being moved to Barkerville in order to improve conditions for athletes.
Biathlon and cross country skiing events will be held at the historic site of Barkerville on Saturday, Feb. 24 as organizers look to the mountains for better snow conditions.
Grooming equipment from the Wells Snowmobile Club and Cariboo Ski Touring Club will be used to develop a track for skiers to use in sprint style events. BC Winter Games noted in a news release Monday (Feb. 20) that Barkerville operations staff began work on the base of the track almost immediately after the decision was made to hold the event at the site. Troll Ski Resort has also loaned equipment to support the event.
There will be limited access to view the race along the course, but spectators may cheer on the athletes at the finish line. Participants will have the opportunity to explore Barkerville following the races and before the medal presentations and return to Quesnel.
Athletes, coaches, officials, and other volunteers will be bussed to the site. Warm-up will begin at 9:30 a.m, with a Welcome Ceremony in the staging area prior to the first qualifying events starting at 10:05 a.m. The day will wrap up with medal presentations at 3:30 p.m. A full schedule is available on the BC Games website, under Spectator Information. www.bcwintergames.ca
Events at Hallis Lake are still scheduled to take place on Feb. 22 – 23. The Cariboo Ski Touring Club has been taking advantage of the colder temperatures the week prior to the Games with snow making equipment to improve the base at that venue.
“This is an opportunity for the athletes to race in a truly unique venue,” says Brian Balkwill, rsmes as we navigate this unseasonable weather. A big thank you to Barkerville for coming on board with the venue and helping hands.”
In order to ensure the safety of participants, staff, and volunteers, and maintain the integrity of the race course, there will be no access to Groundhog Lake through Barkerville on day of the event. Snowmobilers may use the Prosperine Trail.