The 66th running of the "Worlds Greatest Ski Race" in Long Beach, Califorinia saw not only records fall, but also the closest finish is the events rich history. Todd Haig, skiing behind the #191 Nordic team of Randy and Steve Davis, won the drag race to the finish over Aussie skiier Wayner Mawer by a scant seven-tenths of a second. The win is Haig's 12th making him the winningest skier the race has ever seen. Additionally, Haig's time of 46 min 36 seconds breaks the record he already held by over 3 minutes. To say Todd Haig had a good day would be an understatement!
Another noteable finish came from the #512 W.O.T. Marine team of Jim and Kyle Lancon and Dennis Fritch who crossed the finish in 13th overall and second in class in their little red F-2. Congrats guys!
With many of the "Inmates" racing this event, it is always a popular gathering for RDP'ers who happen to be in sunny, Southern California. This year we were lucky enough to to have Brad Stern, driver of the #36 boat and known as "boatracer36" here on the boards, and Brian Samaniego, known as "skiracr" on the boards, give us a recap of their races so that we can get a glimpse at what it's like battling the big blue and more than 50 crazed racers all for a chance at a years worth of bragging rights and a lifetime worth of memories. Congrats to both teams for finishing 2nd and 1st in their classes respectively. If you've never had a chance to watch the Catalina Ski Race be sure to mark it on your calendar for next year!
HISTORY...