Photo: Aidan Gay
Well, last Saturday truly delivered for everyone who took part in our Annual Cain Cup Race. It was one of those days where everything just clicked—fast snow, a perfectly set course, and clear skies that made you stop and take it all in. The mountain was alive with energy, and the cheers from the crowd could probably be heard all the way to Woss!
This year’s Cain Cup winners have been crowned, and they’ll proudly hold the titles of King and Queen for the season. But it wasn’t just about the winners; the day was filled with unforgettable moments, thrilling runs, and a sense of community that makes Mount Cain so special.
The snowboarders definitely laid it down this weekend, with snow flying as they carved up the course! The tele skiers really showed off their skills, freeing their heels and with every turn, they lunged their way through the course. The Men’s Tele winner, who took full advantage of the competition… of one! He couldn’t have been more thrilled to claim his victory and wear that smile of pure satisfaction. With a total of 40 participants it was the skiers that took the course by storm. It’s safe to say that the slopes were alive with adrenaline and passion, with every skier pushing their limits to make it to the finish line. With a couple racers showing off with their epic wipeout skills. The top skier’s times were tight during the two run qualifiers, it was clear that this group wasn’t here to just participate—they were here to win! For the afternoon the stakes were raised when the course was lengthened, and someone’s favorite corner at L2 was added into the mix for the official Cain Cup run!
A huge congratulations to Cain locals Christian Tuters and Megan Walter, who raced their way to victory with style and skill and added even more style with their new Stanfields from Macandales. Christian may have left his Ontario racing days behind long ago, but Saturday proved that some skills are built to last. As for Megan, she held onto her crown for another year, but we’re still holding out hope her mom (Helen Brown) might come out of retirement and take her off the podium.
While the competition was strong across a few categories, it was the Men’s 20-29 age category that really took charge at the Awards ceremony, filling the Lodge with energy and enthusiasm. Later that night, the Cain Cup itself took on its true purpose. After some yelling of shots and skis, or was it… SHOT SKI!
In a throwback to back in the day, pre-Covid times, Christian and Megan reclaimed their 2019 King and Queen titles— using the same vintage gear that helped them reign before. Their repeat victories were a nice reminder of the familiar faces that make these events so special.This day wasn’t just about racing—it was about the shared love for sliding on snow and the community that keeps us coming back.
Nico (from the band COVE was the winner of the grand prize racer entry draw taking home a Yeti cooler courtesy of Cove and Sporty’s gift cards.
Mackenzie Moore was the lucky winner of the Booster Pack from Napa Port Hardy.
Thanks to everyone’s generosity, we secured a bin of food for the North Island Food Bank and raised over $320 in donations.
Mount Cain events wouldn’t be possible without the incredible people who step up to help. From the timing crew to the course setters, the lifties to the ski patrol, to Turk’s Tavern, you all deserve a standing ovation. Thank you to Aidan Gay who photographed the event — he even raced that day! A special shoutout to Christian, Connor, Marty, Kieren, Danielle, Sally, Tyson, Erin, Drew, Emma, Kira, and Arran for going above and beyond.
More Fun on the Horizon & Dates to Save:
- MEATSAW Mountain film festival: Cain Lodge, January 25th at 7pm.
- Outdoor Movie Night: On Friday, February 7th, before Backcountry Fest commences, join us for an outdoor screening of Matchstick Productions’ latest film, “Calm Beneath Castles.” Bring your chair and bundle up.
- Snowboard Instructors Course: CASI BC is hosting a Level 1 Snowboard Instructors Course at Mount Cain from February 15th to 17th. There are only 7 spots available. Visit CASI Course Schedule to register.
To everyone who raced, volunteered, or just came to cheer, thank you for making this event unforgettable.
Here’s to more incredible days on the mountain,
Kim
Photos by: June Hale
