2022 Dion Snowshoe Squall Race Report

Event Name/ Date/ Location: Dion Snowshoe Squall, February 27, 2022, Hammond Hill Ontario

Synopsis: A fun race. We discovered a new place “Hammond Hill” and most of the course was groomed! A real treat for snowshoe running. Beautiful course. Most of the 6 km was actually groomed which is unusual for snowshoe racing. Mostly in the woods with a small less sheltered section. There were a lot of turns and most were manned by volunteers but the last section was a bit confusing.  Post race beer and pretzels by open air fires.

My Race Experience: This was the last event in the 2022 Dion Snowshoe Series and I went there knowing that I had a good chance of finishing as one of the top three women in the series. There were four of us in the same position and we all knew going in. We ran literally side by side for all 6 km and sprinted to the finish line. The only other runner in the pack was Rick Balderson who finished 1 second behind me. I have not worked that hard on Snowshoes in many, many years! It was painful but fun. Great group of women to race with. I ended up second in the race and second in the series. Congratulations to Katy Murphy on the win. I was truly impressed by Emily Flynn who placed third wearing non-running snowshoes. Rick placed first in the men’s masters.

Closing thoughts: Any hints for others planning to do this race? Where to stay? Things to bring? What to wear? : Make sure you bring a full set of dry clothes for after the race. If you do not own running snowshoes you can rent them on site and it’s definitely worth it.

Dion Snowshoe Squall RunK2J Info Card

Weather: It started out cold but sunny. Just after I finished there was a Snow Squall which caused a total white out! Even in the trees there was near zero visibility.  

Would you do this event again? Why? : Yes I would do this again. Nice location, great course, beer (although I was too cold to appreciate it) and pretzels!

Would you recommend this event? Why? : Fast, flat groomed course what’s not to like.

Overall Venue Rating: : 5 – Monumentally Awesome

Please rate the course: 4 – Great

Closing thoughts. Any hints for others planning to do this race?: Make sure you bring a fall set of dry clothes for after the race. If you do not own running snowshoes you can rent them on site and it’s definitely worth it.