Beaver Freezer basks in warmth of success (5 photos)

Beaver Freezer Marathon was a good run this year but organizers plan to make it better next year.

One of the changes they are looking at is starting it in a remote location and ending at Hiawatha Highlands rather than starting and finishing the 42km course at the park, said founder and adventure enthusiast, Lawrence Foster, 50.

Overall, feedback from race volunteers and participants was excellent, Foster said.

“It was a great turnout. There were over 70 volunteers and I think about 150 competitors who came out,” he added, happily.

A freezing rain storm caused the Beaver Freezer Marathon to be postponed from March 6 to Saturday, March 19. 

Even so, all 300 race spots were sold out and 100 local volunteers had lined up to help out. 

Racers could choose to run, cross-country ski or fat bike on either a 10km, 25km or 42km trail, individually or as a relay team. 

All results are posted on the official website.

Since the Beaver Freezer Marathon finished, the organizers have been wrapping things up.

“It’s a lot of ‘Thank yous’, making sure the course is clean. A family from Heyden even rode out on their snow machines and cleared out all of the ribbons and signs," said Foster. "Always have to leave the trails better than when you found it."

Speaking of trails, Foster estimates the total funds raised come out to approximately $6,000 which will go to support sustainable trails. 

They are in discussion with the city of Sault Ste. Marie, working out the “best allocation for the funds” specifically revolving around local trailblazing and maintenance. 

“The response from our community was amazing!” He said. “We will definitely do it again next year with hopefully even more involvement.” 

Any feedback from racers, volunteers and spectators is greatly encouraged, with the chance to win prizes from Velorution.