January 05, 2018 (Minneapolis, MN)– The World Masters Association has approved a motion to extend registrations by 10 days, until January 16, for the upcoming 2018 Masters World Cup, taking place January 19-26 in Minneapolis, MN.

© MWC2018

“The WMA Executive Committee decided that the early dates of this particular MWC required additional time for registrations to come in. We understand that some folks — particularly in the Upper Midwest — are still building fitness and having another week to decide to participate in the MWC2018 could be useful,” said J.D. Downing of AXCS.

This extension opens a window for master skiers that may still be deciding if they’re in shape to compete in the cup. The additional ten-day registration extension will give them time to make that call, though the timing will influence their starting point in the races. Competitors who register after the original deadline of January 6 will be seeded in their age and gender category, based on the order in which their registration was received.

As registrations continue to roll in, trails crews at the Loppet Foundation continue working day and night to build out the course for the week-long championship. Mike Erickson, Race and Events Director of the Foundation, said:

“The plan developed over the past five years for manmade snow on the Masters World Cup courses is working perfectly thus far. The cold weather over the holidays has allowed the first 5 km of the core 7.5 km of trails used for the first four race days to be put in place.”

With many other areas of the USA struggling with snow or weather woes, the Twin Cities are increasingly looking great for a fabulous Masters World Cup. It’s not too late to make your plans and join the fun — late registrations will be accepted until January 16, 2018.