GORHAM, N.H. – The International Snowshoe Championship was held recently, with close to 100 athletes competing in more than 40 races and walks.

Events included a coronation ball, a special reception for presidents of clubs, a dance and a parade in the evening, and a brunch and the presentation of medals, trophies and plaques.

Participating clubs were from Ontario, Quebec, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. Locally, Justin Welch of Paresseux of Rumford won the Best Junior B Boys class, Janet Valliere of Berlin won the Best Senior Female class, and Caitlin Boissonneault Rochambeau of Biddeford won the Best Junior B Female.

Other competitors were from local clubs: Pastime, Acme and Les Indiens clubs, all of Lewiston, and Amis Choisis Club of Auburn.

During the parade, the Paresseux Club of Rumford won the following awards: most numerous club with snowshoes on their backs; second place, color guard; most numerous in the parade; best drum corps; and most registration of members at the convention.

General chairwoman was Marie Arsenault of Oxford, a member of Les Indiens.