Wednesday, January 22, 2014

WinMan Windigo 5K/10K Snowshoe Stomp!

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new event: the WinMan Windigo 5K/10K Snowshoe Stomp. The event will be on Sunday February 16 at 1pm, on the 1200 acre silent sports WinMan Trail system. This is a new multi-recreational silent sports trail system we are helping to develop and maintain for year-round use & enjoyment. 

The WinMan Trails are an ideal trail system for a snowshoe race. According to WinMan Trails Coordinator Robert Polic, they work well due to the 8 to 14 foot wide, groomed trails. He notes the trails “have a firm smooth surface with good width for passing.  There’s also enough mileage to support a 10K race without having to repeat sections of trail.”  In addition, the site offers beautiful views and plenty of nature to explore. The land features interesting terrain, and a rich and varied ecological diversity. Wildlife sightings this year have included rarities such as badger and moose.  And on race day, keep your eyes out for the elusive “Windigo”!

The race is for those wanting to push their times and compete as well as for the less competitive racers. Custom-made awards will go to the fastest three women and men in the 5K & 10K races. To bring in added fun, we are including an optional Windigo Fur Hunters class where participants seek out Windigos along the course attempting to snatch locks of their fur. In addition, there will be a non-competitive kids race, a big vat of fire-roasted chili, beer and hot cocoa, and Windigo stories around the fire. 

So, just what is a windigo?!  Legends of the Algonquian peoples of the Great Lakes region describe them as half-beast creatures that can possess humans and that feast on innocent villagers. Imagine an aggressive Sasquatch that loves to eat humans... and that gets especially hungry in the lean months of our long Wisconsin winters!

Don't wait to register! Visit WinManTrails.com or call (877) 543-2085. Advance registration by 2/11 ensures a complimentary WinMan Windigo fleece headband. Participants ages 13 and up are $25; and youth in the kids race participate for free. The WinMan Trails are located 3.5 miles north of the Discovery Center, at the intersections of Highways W and J in Winchester, WI.

Photos credited to Azael Meza.

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