Hull, Que.-The Keskinada Loppet's 25th anniversary celebrations Feb. 15-16 will likely see the deepest field of competitors for the featured event inits history. The 50K free-technique event, part of the International Ski Federation (FIS) Marathon Cup circuit, will have a purse of $30,000 (evenly divided between men and women), as the Swiss, Swedes, Russians, Canadians, Americans, and others pursue the top prize of $7,700. Money going five-deep and an extra $500 for the top Canadian male and female are reasons why organizers are confident that the ski weekend festival will break its record entry of 2,968 participants. “We have a quality event, we have a great course, good conditions, and we try to give our clients-the skiers-the best for their money,” says Keskinada Loppet president Claude Laramee. “We've tried to improve something every year,” he added, noting that last year, each 50K contestant received a hat, and that this year, a computer chip on each skier's ankle will provide mid-race splits, to facilitate racer's positions on the course for the media and organizers. The sprints at the Byward Market will also return, as they did last year following a year's absence, with Sirius Consulting the sprints' major sponsor. There may also be changes to the location or set-up of the start area. Last year, three generators broke down and the 2K race was started without power, and organizers don't want that happening again when 1,000 skiers leave the line for the featured event. “The biggest thing,” says Laramee, “is that we get over 3,300 skiers, nice conditions, and lots of happy faces.” The fact that the following week's American Birkebeiner is also a FIS Marathon Cup event might just help make his wish a reality.