It’s that time of year again. Time for Bellingham to take the national stage with it’s epic Sea to Ski Race.
It’s a weekend full of events. The main event the Ski to Sea Race is a 93.5 mile relay Race of seven venues from Mount Baker to Bellingham Bay encompassing seven different sports. The finish is at Marine Park where it “all ends in Fairhaven” at a huge party, the Fairhaven Festival.
There is also a community block party with music and food, a Junior Ski to Sea Race, a historical hometown parade, and other events for adults and kids alike. The race is a showcase of Whatcom County’s recreational playground.
A race team has 8 competitors in the seven race legs (Cross Country Ski; Downhill Ski/Snowboard; Running; Road Bike; Canoe; Mountain Bike; Kayak).
The Ski to Sea Race from Mt. Baker to Bellingham Bay dates back to the Mt. Baker Marathon held from 1911 to 1913. The marathon pitted man and machine against rugged terrain of Whatcom County, taking participants over treacherous roads and trails to the top of the mountain and back.
The foot race to the top of Mt. Baker was a publicity stunt focusing the government’s attentions on the region, with an eye toward getting the North Cascades area designated as part of the National Park System.
It was in 1973 that the Mt. Baker Marathon was reborn and renamed the Ski to Sea Race. The relay Race, was designed to showcase the recreational opportunities and beauty of Whatcom County. The Race attracts participants from all over the world.