The annual frostbite ski took place at Hartlepool on 13 December.
The event is now in its 54th year and is run by Hartlepool Water Sports Association. The event first ran in 1971 as part of the ski section events of Hartlepool Yacht Club, and the first winner was Cliff Featherstone. Originally conceived as a race between teams, the event now runs as an individual ski around a short circuit of laps totalling about three miles. Traditionally teams were limited to using a pair of standard skis so that anyone willing to brave the cold could take part.
The frostbite trophy for the event which was originally awarded to the winner of the race, now goes to the skier completing the laps in the shortest time. This year there were four participants who skied in the main and junior event. The weather was mild at 8C and sunny, with calm conditions on the water; the event has generally gone ahead despite the weather and some years has seen exceptionally cold or windy weather.
Everyone skied very well and there were few falls on the circuit. The times for three miles:
main event (mins, secs)
D.Owens 5:22
G.Watson 5:32
S.Binks 5:44
Junior (2 miles)
D.Binks 10:16
Thanks to all who helped out and to Hartlepool Marina for their support.
