35th Annual Reino Keski-Salmi Larch Hills Ski Loppet

The Shuswap Amateur Radio Club, as it has for the past 25 years, assisted with radio communication for the loppet on Saturday, January 19, 2019.

Sunshine, fair blue skies, and a brisk wind provided excellent skiing conditions for the estimated 511 skiers registered for the eight course routes provided for all ages and skill levels.
Of historic note, this was the first loppet enjoyed by participants in the recently- renovated and much-expanded chalet that was brought to fruition after years of planning and complicated fund-raising. Net control operators Dave VA7HDY and Ron VE7RLE were co-located in the “penthouse” with several data-entry personnel enjoying an expansive view of the large Start and Finish areas.
The other SARC operators: Al VE7AN, Tim VA7TMK, and Rob VA7AYL, though few in number, were located at strategic checkpoints in the most dangerous portions of the courses.
Dave remained on 146.550 Simplex with SARC operators and also kept in touch with Race Director Mike Underhill via commercial Larch Hills VHF portable. This communications arrangement greatly enhanced management of the event and was particularly useful in two instances of significant medical emergency.
It was obvious that our amateur radio contribution for the day was particularly useful and that our presence was so highly-regarded by the sponsoring Larch Hills Nordic Society.

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