Mealey Classic returns to Searchmont this weekend

The Searchmont Ski Runners (SSR) are preparing for the annual Mealey Classic which will take place at Searchmont Ski Resort this Valentine’s Day/Family Day long weekend.

Alpine racers from the Northern Ontario Division (NOD) and the Southern Ontario Division (SOD) have been participating in a Speed Camp all week out at Searchmont in preparation for this weekend’s races.  

The annual event is named after Brian Mealey who coached the alpine program for over 40 years and continues to be an inspiration to racers all over the province. Brian – a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Sports Hall of Fame who is in his 80s – can still be seen out at Searchmont cutting a tree, clearing brush, setting a course, or helping out in any way possible. Naming the event after Brian is to pay tribute to him and his major contribution to the sport for so many years. It is a great honour to continue to have him involved in the event.

Over 120 racers from Timmins, Elliot Lake, North Bay, Sudbury, Blue Mountain, Collingwood, Moonstone, Caledon, Markdale and Toronto in the U12, U14, U16 and U18 divisions will brave the best terrain in the province with some challenging and exciting courses. The race runs Friday, Feb. 14 through Sunday, Feb. 16 with disciplines in Super G, GS and Slalom. Medals will be awarded to the top three finishes (male and female) for each age category, each day.

More than 30 of our local alpine racers from the Searchmont Ski Runners will be joining in on the race action and sure to make the local community proud as they have done in the past with medal honours.

Searchmont’s 750 feet of vertical, over 70 volunteers, a committed coaching staff and race organizing committee, as well as close collaboration with Searchmont management and staff, help make this race one of the best in the province.

The race is held on only a small portion of the hill leaving the rest of the runs open to the public.

It’s a great weekend to catch a few races, cheer on your local ski team, enjoy the winter weather and ski the slopes.

Searchmont is also open for Family Day! Visit Searchmont’s website for lift operating times and other promotions.

Work hard. Ski fast. Be humble.