By John Crook

Despite the inclement rain, freezing rain and icy conditions, on Sunday, February 25, 2018 the Rails to Trails corridor along the Gatineau River was the setting for about 60 stoic cross country skiers, including all ages of participants from the Chelsea Nordiq Ski Club.   They were joined by dog walkers, hikers taking a slightly perverse pleasure in walking in the unseasonal winter rain, along with a handful of fat bikers.  It just goes to show how Chelseaites and their friends can be bonded (sometimes by freezing rain) to the wonderful Chelsea Community Trail along the Gatineau, regardless of the weather.

This was the fourth annual celebration along the Community winter Trail.  The hardy souls participating were served delicious treats, butter tarts, and Camino Camino free trade hot chocolate, by devoted Sentiers Chelsea Trails volunteers at four refreshment and activity stations. The Transcollines bus, which navigated the icy roads to shuttle participants back and forth along the trail, was a lifesaver.

These events would not be possible without the generous support of our corporate trail leaders:  Gazifère, Greg Christie’s Ski and Cycle, Le Pub Chelsea, Le Nordik Spa Nature and Physiosport Chelsea; our groomers Robert Lafleur and Bob Walsh, and  our community event partners:  Les Fougères, Une Boulangerie dans un village and Markhauser Homes. And of course, the Municipality of Chelsea that incorporated the Ski Challenge event into its Winter Fun Day.