February 18, 2011 (Gatineau, QC) – The technical committee for the 33rd Gatineau Loppet has decided to set up a contingency course because of last night’s rain and today’s sunshine, which have melted some of the snow. The 51 km classic style course will now be a 50km one, and the 31km classic style course will become a 28km one. The 16km course will also be changed to ensure the best possible conditions for the skiers. No change is expected to the 5km course.

Please note that the new plans and profiles are available at the Ski Show.

Since we expect to reach the freezing point around 8 p.m., we will have to wait until midnight to start the work because of the time needed to get the snow ready for grooming. After that, we expect the conditions to be fast on a hard base, which should keep the adrenalin pumping.

As far as the Sunday course conditions go, the decisions will be made on Saturday, and the focus will remain on ensuring the best courses for the race participants.

The registration booth will open tonight at 5:30 p.m. at the Ski Show, at École secondaire Mont-Bleu (389 boulevard Cité-des-Jeunes, Gatineau). Registration will be open all weekend for the different races.

For more information, please call 819-790-8074 – visit www.gatineau.ca