The 31st Lake Placid Loppet cross-country ski races will be held Saturday, January 26, at the Olympic Sports Complex Cross Country Ski Center, in Lake Placid, N.Y. The race is being presented by High Peaks Cyclery.

The Lake Placid Loppet has established itself as one of the best events of its kind in the country. Over the past 30 years, thousands of skiers have enjoyed skiing and racing on the Mt. Van Hoevenberg trails at the Olympic Sports Complex. As part of the American Ski Marathon Series, the event attracts hundreds of skiers from across the United States and Canada. It consists of a 50 kilometer Loppet (30.1 miles) and a 25-kilometer Kort Loppet (about 15 miles).

The term “loppet” originated in Scandinavia, where cross country races are an important part of the culture. Approximately 15,000 people participate in the Mora Vasaloppet in Sweden and nearly 2 million Swedes watch it on television. The sport originated as a mode of transportation and became a national pastime.

Traditionally, the Lake Placid Loppet has been held in early-February, organizers have however decided to move the event up by one week, so as to not conflict with a Craftsbury, Vermont race. The cost to participate in the Loppet or Kort Loppet, which includes an awards banquet, is $70 before January 23. After that date the cost is $80. No registration available on race day. There will be classic technique and free technique race starts for both the 25K and 50K races. Bib pickup will run from 3-8 p.m. in the cross country lodge, Friday, Jan. 25, and on race day, bib pick-up runs from 7-8:30 a.m.

The 50K classic technique race begins at 9 a.m. followed by the 25K classic race at 9:15 a.m. The 50K free technique race starts at 10 a.m. and the 25K free technique race will follow at 10:15 a.m. Each finisher will receive a commemorative pin, gold for the Loppet and silver for the Kort Loppet.

This year’s event includes a free .5K (less than ½ mile) kids race (ages 12 and under) set to get underway at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 25. This year’s .5K kids race will be held under the lights in the Cross Country Stadium with prizes for finishers. All participants should register on site.

To registration and more information can be fund online.