Another PPP change: Replacement run lengthened

Due to feedback from race participants, U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle organizers made a new change to their revised plans Wednesday, making the Nordic leg replacement a 2 1/2-mile run, rather than just one mile.

“Yesterday, it was announced that the Nordic section of the U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle was cancelled due to the lack of snow,” Race Director Molly Cogswell-Kelley said in an updated news release on the May 16 event

“However, it was replaced with a one-mile trail run,” she wrote. “Due to concerns that teammates may not have enough time to get from the bottom of the Alpine section to the start of the Bike section, we have decided to add a little length to the trail run. The trail run now will be a 2.5-mile run.

“The course will take place on the Upper Nordic trails but still end at the Nordic Center at Mt. Bachelor,” Cogswell-Kelley said. “Maps will be available when the exact route is confirmed.”

Also, MBSEF has decided to not have a late fee this year. Registration will end on May 11 th at midnight. www.pppbend.com

Due to the unseasonably mild winter and low Mt. Bachelor snowpack, the Nordic leg of the 39th annual U.S. Bank Pole Pedal was replaced.

“Although we really hoped to keep the Nordic leg of the race, the snow conditions would not allow for a safe out and back course on the west side of Mt. Bachelor,” Cogswell-Kelley said Tuesdsay.

Mt. Bachelor officials have been in contact with MBSEF throughout the past several weeks, trying to come up with alternative solutions for the Nordic leg.

“In the end, it came down to providing the best possible course and maintaining as much of the race as possible. We are extremely grateful to Mt. Bachelor that we will be able to continue the race with the Alpine leg intact.” said John Schiemer, the executive director of MBSEF.

The U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle is a multi sport event that includes alpine and cross country skiing, cycling, running and kayaking.

The race is produced and is a benefit for the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation. The mission of MBSEF is to be the Northwest’s leading youth sports training organization, promoting the positive values of competitive sports including alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding and cycling.

This event is presented by U.S. Bank and is sponsored by Les Schwab, the Hasson Company Realtors, St. Charles Health System, Big Foot Beverages, Mt. Bachelor, NW Brain and Spine, Bud Light, Desert Orthopedics, Five Talent, 92.9, Old Mill District, NewsChannel 21 and Fox Central Oregon.

Please contact Molly at MBSEF for more information at molly@mbsef.org.