Bear Valley, CA…On Saturday, March 9th, cross country skiers from near and far will assemble in the Bear Valley Meadow for the 46th running of the Bjornloppet Ski Race and Festival. With a 10:30 am start, The “Bjornloppet”, meaning Bear Race in Norwegian, is enjoyed by young and old alike. There are divisions for all ages and two distances are offered, 20 kilometers (two laps) and 10 kilometers in Saturday’s freestyle (striding or ski skating) race.

The mass start is fun to watch with the go-fast racers using the ski skating technique. The course winds through aspen trees, over some roller coaster terrain and ends up on the Bjornloppet Trail with its notorious Bjornloppet Downhill. Big thrills are part of the racing game as the race can be won or lost on this section alone. After the race is over, skiers will gather for an outrageous awards party with food, awards and prizes from Salomon, local businesses and suppliers.

Saturday is the main event, but on Sunday, March 10th, a second day of racing is offered up for striders (classic skiers only – no ski skaters). This 10 Kilometer (or 5 Kilometer for junior racers) event starts at 10:00 am (don’t forget to set your clocks ahead for Daylight Savings Time), features a different course and is followed up with awards for overall (1st, 2nd & 3rd) winners and raffle prizes as well.

This year’s events are hosted by Bear Valley Cross Country staff, awesome volunteers and Dianne and Paul Petersen. BVCC is reporting excellent mid-winter ski conditions with many days of All Trails Open.

For more information contact www.bearvalleyxc.com or 209 753-2834.

Bear Valley Cross Country (Bear Valley Adventure Company, Inc.), is now owned by the Bear Valley Mountain Cooperative. For more information on how to become a Bear Valley Mountain Co-Op member, please visit www.bvmcoop.org.