This year, one of the KML team members, Amy Bory, participated in the 2023 Great Bear Chase. Amy was interviewed afterwards to provide how she enjoyed participating in the event — an event that the Lodge is a supporting sponsor of, along with multiple other organizations in the Keweenaw.
Why did you decide to participate in the Great Bear Chase this year?
I love skiing, and it was a mental and physical challenge. I wanted to know that I can do it. I had participated in the Great Bear Chase 26 years ago (in 1997), when I was in high school. Now that I am older, I wanted to see if I could do the longer distance. It was an accomplishment. My goal was to make it to the finish line, and I was able to do that.
The event has multiple races. Which race did you participate in?
I participated in the 25km (16 miles) free style race. The free style race has skis that are longer, thinner, and have a blade edge. It is comparable to skate ski — a Nordic classic.
There were around 200 skiers, coming from different states (as there were cars in the parking lot from multiple states). At the start line, there were 3 corrals and 3 lines — very similar to a running marathon start. It made the start like a zoo. So I once I made it to the top of the first hill, I pulled to the side and let the other participants pass. Then I followed up behind to enjoy the 25km at my own pace.
Did you have a support team to cheer you on?
Yes, my family joined me to see at starting and to see me finish. They held signs with decorations that were encouraging. A beautiful day on skis.
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