BETHEL — In its 31st year, the Flying Moose Race is taking place Feb. 5 starting behind the Bethel Inn near the Inland + Woods ski shop. There are three different races. There is a 20K race (12 miles) starting at 11 a.m., a 10K race (6 miles), also starting at 11 a.m., and a 2.5K youth race (1.5 miles), starting at 11:05 a.m.

Winners from the 20K and 10K receive merchandise prizes, and winners of the youth race receive cookies. All participants receive a chocolate moose pop.

“We hope that participants feel a sense of community with the other competitors, a feeling that they have each made their best effort, and that they were pleased to have skied on well groomed trails on a challenging and beautiful course in Bethel,” said James Reuter, Flying Moose Race director and Bethel Outing Club member.

Proceeds go toward the Bethel Outing Club to support affordable access to all cross-country skiing and people-powered sports, including, but not limited to, hiking, cycling, running, paddling, swimming, and roller-skiing.

“I think that embracing winter by participating in any number of winter activities, from Nordic or alpine skiing/riding, to ice fishing, snowmobiling, or dog sledding, makes a sometimes dark and dreary season something to look forward too,” said Reuter.

The race initially was part of L.L. Bean Winter Festival, which used to be an annual event in 90’s in Bethel. When the festival ended in the 2000s, the Bethel Outing Club took over the race.

To sign up online go to: www.skireg.com/flying-moose-classic . For the 20K race and 10K race is costs $35 and for the 2.5K race the cost is $4.

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