It's that time of year again, and the weather couldn't have been more perfect with recent heavy snowfall laying down some great powder on the cross country ski trails in Bragg Creek.

The Alberta Youth Championship Cross Country Skiing event is taking place this weekend, with competitors from all over Alberta, BC and the North West Territories descending onto Bragg Creek for the competition.

Flora Giesbrecht is the Head Coach of Cross Country Skiing, she says this championship replicates what the Alberta Winter games is like for younger skiiers.

"So the AYC is short for Alberta Youth Championships and this is the 6th year in a row that the local Bragg Creek team will host the event." Giesbrecht says "The original intent is to be a final event for midget aged skiiers to come and compete against each other and stay in a camp environment. It's very social, and very unique. It's based on the type of experience that the Alberta Winter Games Provide."

The AYC has become the largest midget age event in Alberta for skiing. This year Bragg Creek will host 150 participants on their trails, the top ten skiiers will be awarded.

Giesbrecht thanks the local sponsors and businesses who have donated prizes for the top ten finalists.

"A lot of the local businesses have contributed donations for prizes, and that's one thing we're really known for, is we have really great prizes."

Last year there was everything from a pair of ski's, national team racing suites, to toys, hats and gift cards.

The event wouldn't be as good with out the volunteer's and the Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association, who have worked tirelessy to create the beautiful ski trails that the competitors will see this weekend.

The trails will be open to the public over the weekend during the competition, and spectators are welcome.

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