February 03, 2012 (Montebello, QC) – Celebrate Jackrabbit Johannsen by skiing the traditional 160km point-to-point trail from Gatineau to Montebello to Lachute. Experiencing the best conditions in years, the Canadian Ski Marathon can proudly proclaim the original point to point trail as ready, challenging and full of adventure.

It will flow from Gatineau to Montebello, and from Montebello to Lachute; 10 Sections, 2 Days, 160 Kms in total. Over 100 landowners open their gates for this prestigious event and let over 2000 skiers discover western Quebec’s beautiful countryside.

“In 1967, when I skied the first Canadian Ski Marathon, we wanted an adventure and we didn’t let anything stand in our way of making it to the last check point”, said Malcolm Hunter, CSM board member.

To celebrate the commitment of our new and returning CSM skiers, we are thrilled to host a “WELCOME BACK to the CSM Party & Jackrabbit Tribute” on Friday evening, Feb 10 at the Fairmont Chateau Montebello. The CSM is thrilled to announce that Ana Miura, Ottawa Folk singer and song writer will perform during this special evening.

We will take the time to pay tribute to the 25th anniversary of the passing of cross country ski icon – Jackrabbit Johannsen – throughout the entire 46th CSM weekend. Because of Jackrabbit and the legacy he left behind, we all continue to be inspired to enjoy cross-country skiing, winter, nature, health and fitness. His truly was the essence of “can-do” spirit and accomplishment. “

As CSM skiers journey from point to point, I hope they are able to feel Jackrabbit’s spirit and hear his words echo in their minds: ‘see what lies on the other side of the hill, reap the benefit from the experience. Climb your mountains slowly and know that you’ll have the opportunity to stand on the summit and look beyond to the farthest horizon!.’ ” said Bill Syrros, President of the Canadian Ski Marathon.

For more information about the 46th CSM, please visit CSM, facebook and twitter.

Download the 2012 Trail Map! Click HERE.
The 2012 CSM Trail Descriptions – Click HERE.
We Can Almost see the CSM Start Line! Click HERE.

Girl-Power!

Over 105 girls between 8 and 17 have signed up to participate in the CSM. Talk about girl power! The CSM has received a special message from Marie-Hélène Thibeault, Fast and Female, Executive Director :

Dear Canadian Ski Marathon Participants:

Fast and Female would like to wish a fantastic time on the trails to everyone (and especially the ladies!) taking part in the Canadian Ski Marathon this coming February 11 and 12.

Cross-Country Skiing is a tremendous sport and a wonderful way to connect with nature, make new friends, improve your fitness, and simply feel alive!

We congratulate you on taking part in this outstanding event and wish you all the best in the final weeks of preparation!

Have Fun and Spread the Love!

Your Friends at Fast and Female

Fast and Female aims to support motivate, inspire, and empower girls ages 9 to 19 to stick to sports and the healthy lifestyle by exposing them to innovative programming led by world-class female athletes who act as ambassadors and positive role models.