August 16, 2008 (Lake Wanaka, NZ) – Day one of the FIS ANC Cup Series began yesterday at the Snow Farm in New Zealand. Racers from Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Japan and France took part in the first day’s races which consisted of a 15km classic race for the men and 10km for the women.

ABC of Skiing reports that in the men’s race, Japan’s Tomio Kanamaru broke away from the lead group on the final lap to win ahead of Canadian Robin McKeever in a time of 43:15:20. Finishing close behind McKeever in third was Japan’s Masaaki Kozu. On the women’s side, Canada’s Milaine Theriault led from start to finish eventually building up a one minute lead over second place finisher Katie Calder of New Zealand to win in 34:29:90. Sumiko Ishigaki of Japan took third place.

The series continues this weekend with sprint races today, followed by freestyle races tomorrow. For more information click here.