KANGIQLINIQ/RANKIN INLET
The annual Kivalliq Challenge cross-country race is viewed as the crown jewel of Pakallak Tyme celebrations, and this year's event didn't disappoint racing fans in Rankin Inlet.

Dali Kaludjak is all smiles after taking the checkered flag in the Kivalliq Challenge cross-country race in Rankin Inlet earlier this month. - photo courtesy of Noel Kaludjak

Dali Kaludjak remains the man to beat in the Kivalliq, having, once again, captured the senior men's checkered flag.

But, this year, he had a fight on his hands, as Tristen Dias ran the race of his life until an equipment malfunction proved his undoing.

The Junior Division was even more hotly contested, with Sidney Nichol holding off determined runs by Quinton Karlik and Kane Komaksiutiksak to take the checkered flag.

Ross Tatty destroyed the field in taking the Master's Division (35 and older), while the Bravo Division was the Arviat show with Jordan St. John taking the flag ahead of Desmond Ukutaq and Pierre Ikakhik.

Race marshal Noel Kaludjak, in his second year of being president of the Kivalliq Challenge Cross-Country Racers, said he was very pleased with this year's races.

He said the story of the event was Dias's run at Deli and the battle between Nichol and Karlik in the Junior Division.

"The races were much better organized this year, thanks, mainly, to the efforts of challenge member Jason Todd," said Noel.

"The two main finals were both very exciting.

"Tristen (Dias) was doing very well challenging Dali until he broke a ski bolt with about five laps to go.

"K.J. Putulik also hung in pretty good until about the 10th lap, or so, then Dali just took over from there."

Noel said Dali is a modest racer who doesn't like too much attention on his victories in case some people think he's showing off.

He said the regional champ is also an honest racer who always shows good sportsmanship on the track.

"Dali won't tell us his numbers, but he has an awful lot of checkered flags and trophies at home that he's been collecting from all his wins over the years.

"When Tristen broke down, the first time Dali lapped the track and passed him while he was working on his machine, he gave Tristen the thumb's up sign, you know, to make sure he was OK.

"He always encourages others to race, and he's always checking the other racers to make sure they're doing well.

"If there's going to be someone winning a lot of races on the circuit, he's, really, the kind of guy you want."

Noel said the final of the Junior Division was very exciting for the fans.

He said Karlik was right on Nichol all the way to the home stretch, but just couldn't overtake him.

"They were neck-and-neck all the way around and it really looked like Quinton (Karlik) was going to pass him a couple of times, but it didn't happen.

"Ross (Tatty) just ran away with the Master's Division, which didn't surprise anyone.

"Ross has been a great racer for a long time, and he's one of those old race horses that just won't quit.

"It was an excellent event and we owe a big thanks to all the fans, participants, volunteers and EMTs who were there with the ambulance all the time, just in case."

Todd is in his second year helping Noel organize and run the races.

He said this year's races went very well, but they could have been even better if more people had volunteered to help.

"Last year people entered and then dropped out due to mechanical reasons, or whatever, so more guys actually raced this year," said Todd.

"Tristen ran an exceptional race and was right on Dali until that ski bolt broke.

"The kid was awesome and, after everyone passed him when his bolt broke, he fixed it, came back and finished fifth.

"I was impressed by his run, but, you know, we've watched him come up through juniors to where he is now and there's no doubt about it, the kid is fast."

Todd said he was also impressed by the battle Nichol and Karlik waged for the junior flag.

He said the two young racers battled all the way and put on a heck of a show for the fans.

"As happy as I am with this year's race, I would have preferred to have more volunteers come out to help us by being flag man.

"We did have a shortage of flag men on the course and that is a safety issue.

"There were some delays that took place that could have been sped up or prevented, but that happens every year.

"All in all, it ran pretty well and I told Noel if he needs me again next year, I'll be there."

We welcome your opinions. Click here to e-mail a letter to the editor.