1

"Ski Running" or Cross-Country ski racing was as important an event in the early days as ski jumping. The first race in 1915 was almost 8 miles and called "The Great Road Race." In subsequent years, the race course was 7 miles for men and 2 miles for women. The long distance race was always the first event on the morning of the tournament. The Nelsen and Gunnarsen names figured often in the medals in the cross-country events: Jorgen and Anna Gunnarsen, Carl Gunnarsen, Nannie Nelsen, E. Nelsen, Ivind Nilsen and Nels Nelsen.

The 7 mile race was a test of speed, skill and endurance and the course was about 1/3 flat, 1/3 uphill and 1/3 downhill. The finish was made with a descent off the slopes of Mt. Revelstoke, rewarding the spectators with an exciting climax.

2

Prize winners, long distance cross country race, Revelstoke winter carnival
c. 1916
Revelstoke, British Columbia
TEXT ATTACHMENT


Credits:
Revelstoke Museum and Archives

3

Tom Maley, 7 mile cross country race, "B" class
1916
Revelstoke, British Columbia

Credits:
Revelstoke Museum and Archives

4

Start of the 7 mile Champion of B.C. race, Winter Tournament
1920
Revelstoke, British Columbia
TEXT ATTACHMENT


Credits:
Revelstoke Museum and Archives

5

There were a few girls that ventured off the ski jumps as children but for the most part, women and girls wholeheartedly took part in the cross-country races. The nature of the tournaments was participatory... all levels were welcome to compete.

6

Women's cross country ski race, Winter Tournament
1921
Revelstoke, British Columbia
TEXT ATTACHMENT


Credits:
Revelstoke Museum and Archives

7

Finish of the women's cross country ski race
late 1930's
Revelstoke, British Columbia
TEXT ATTACHMENT


Credits:
Barbara Vigue

8

Trophies, medals and prizes were handed out to all winners in all categories. Examples of prizes given (besides the trophies and medals) include: box of chocolates, pair of slippers, silk bag, two pictures (for women); pipe, tobacco pouch, sweater (for men); brass inkstand, cuff links, glass toilet set, flash light, school bag, slippers, clock, picture frame (for boys and girls).

9

First prize, long distance ski race
1919
Revelstoke, British Columbia
TEXT ATTACHMENT


Credits:
Revelstoke Museum and Archives

10

S. Steinwall, winner of the 7 mile cross country ski race
1920
Revelstoke, British Columbia

Credits:
Revelstoke Museum and Archives