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 Here's something that's more fun than going over the falls in a barrel. Skate over the border at the Casino Niagara International Marathon from Buffalo, NY to Niagara Falls, Canada! The 2000 edition on October 22 proved to be both a hoot and a holler on both sides of the border! Crisp temperatures before the start kept everybody in constant motion. When the giddy-up gun went off, the mood stayed giddy but decidedly more professional. Decked out individuals and speedy teams mixed and moved into position as they sliced into stiff winds. After the five mile dash to the border, pre-cleared skaters took the express lane through customs and found themselves gliding along in Canada. They wound down onto the thoroghly scenic route along the Niagara River Parkway, where they could really enjoy eachothers company and the terrific support along the way. On the men's side, Jordan Nelson was able to get away early and coast to an easy three minute victory. Peter Doucet hooked up with Eddy Matzger and the two went on like a raft in the rapids until just before the falls itself. On the ladies side, Martine Carboneau (Miller Canada) flowed to over a four minute victory. She was followed in by Lynne Wolfson and Suzanne Dione, both also from Canada. Everbody was happy tp finish but sad to see all of the stunning panoramas end so soon. Each skater had their own finishing flourish. Some chose to all-out sprint and others just to soak it in. Whatever the outcome, all inliners had a wonderful opportunity to be a new breed of tourist after an event every athlete can only dream about until next year's edition! News Home |