Annual Book Across the Bay Held in Ashland

Cross Country Skiers and SnowShoers Gathered for the 10 KM Race

Cross Country Skiers and Snow shoers of all ages and skill levels gathered to race across the frozen face of lake Superior.

The Race started at Maslowski Beach on the west end of Ashland, and the finish line was in washburn on the bay close to Thompson’s West End park.

The event is unique, and participants say skiing on the lake is a different experience than standard cross country skiing courses.

“This is flat so you can really practice your technique on a lake, verses going on, most courses are pretty hilly,” said a skier, Gerald Pierson.

Competitors chose how to race the 10 kilometer course in one of the three categories, cross country skiing, skate skiing or snow shoeing

“By the time 2000 people have passed it’s pretty well packed so the people in back often you know, walk in their boots,” said Tom Fitz, one of the race directors for Book Across the Bay. 

Some people entered the race competitively, while others came for the fun.

Though many people entered the race just for the experience, winners of each category received trophies.