2026 Dion Mighty Chickadee Snowshoe Race - Results
- Derrick Spafford
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
The 2026 Dion Canadian Snowshoe Series kicked off on Sunday with the Dion Mighty Chickadee Snowshoe Race. After several mild days leading up to the race, participants were pleased that colder temperatures and a blanket of snow overnight left the course in good shape.
Men's Race
Giancarlo Mastrantoni of Vaughan claimed the overall win in 31:32. Karl Venemore of Pickering followed in 35:29, securing second place, with Troy Bauman of Ancaster finishing third in 37:45.The Male Masters title went to Bryan Lambert, who finished in 39:52.
Women's Race
Tanja Urbancic‑Venemore was the first woman across the line in 36:39. Ruth Henshaw of Barrie finished close behind in 37:21, and Emily Queenan of Port McNicoll rounded out the podium in 38:08.The Female Masters winner was Lisa Champion, finishing in 39:34.
Mighty Chickadee continues to grow into a well-loved event within the series, and Race Directors Phil and Diane Livingston were thrilled to welcome strong representation from local run groups as well as many first‑time participants. Events like this are made possible thanks to a dedicated volunteer team and the hard‑working staff at Cold Creek. As always, members of the Canadian Ski Patrol – Central Division were onsite to ensure racer safety.
The race benefited from the generous support of series sponsors Dion Snowshoes, Spafford Health and Adventure, and XACT Nutrition, along with the ongoing partnership of Snowshoe Canada. Local sponsors also played an important role as well, including Pioneer Brand Honey, Mono Centre Brewing Co., Cold Creek Conservation Area, and King Township.
The next races in the Dion Canadian Snowshoe Series are scheduled for January 17th with the Dion Ignite the Night Snowshoe Race at Upper Canada Village near Morrisburg, ON and the Fat Shoe Snowshoe Race in Vernon, BC.. Registration remains open for those eager to join the fun.
Congratulations and thank you to everyone who raced, volunteered, and supported this year’s Mighty Chickadee!
