OSWEGO COUNTY – A hardy group of Winter sports enthusiasts gathered in the fabled Winona Forest on the chilly morning of Saturday, February 4, 2023, to compete in the Winona Forest Recreation Associations running of the Stone Wall Snowshoe Race.
Named for the dry fit stone walls that line many of the trails that cross what were once agricultural fields, the race is a treasured tradition of Winter sport in the North Country.
Temperatures at the start time of 10:30 a.m. were a balmy -10 degrees fahrenheit, causing a few competitors to choose not to race, but a dedicated group of snowshoe racing fanatics carefully selected the proper layers of clothing and took on the challenge of either a 5k or 10k course.
Recent snowfalls created perfect conditions on the trails, with entrants finding an expertly groomed surface on which to apply their energy and record respectable finishing times.
An added bonus was the spectacular visual treat created by fresh snow clinging to the limbs and boughs of the plentiful deciduous and evergreen trees that line the trails.
Hearty food awaited the frosted racers after the course had been run, and laughter and congratulations could be heard all around at the post race social time, with competitors feeling the warmth of a good workout and the camaraderie of like minded outdoor lovers.
Race results can be viewed here: 2023 Stone Wall 10K & 5K Race Results
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