Category: Nordic Newsletter

Team Scream

Our Team Scream race is fast approaching! Here are the important details.

• February 27th
• Tropical theme! Dress up! It will be fun!
• Choose a partner and each skier does one lap around Mickey’s Loop.
• It is free for members!
• It will be much easier for our volunteer organizers if you sign up ahead of time, but there will be one last chance to sign up on race day between 9:30 and 10:30. Sign up at this link.
• This event is for adults and children: the more people that participate, the more fun we will have!
• More details are available here.

Potluck Dinner

Our wind-up Potluck Dinner will be on Sunday April 3rd, at 5pm at the Community Centre. The potluck is for all of the general membership.

CBT Application

We are applying for CBT local initiatives grants. We are trying to secure funds for some much needed safety equipment for race hosting, as well as asset preservation materials for our day lodge and maintenance building. On Tuesday, March 15th, we will present this information, and attendees are able to vote on the projects. This voting counts towards the decision to fund our project. Therefore, we would love you to attend on March 15th and support the RNSC, as well as other great local clubs and initiatives.

AGM

Our Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday, April 14th at 7pm at the day lodge. This is an important opportunity to speak with board members and learn about the direction the club is heading. We will also be electing next years board members. We have a few vacancies on our board that we need to fill. If you are interested in joining our board, or would like more information about being a board member, please contact us at [email protected]

Race Team

Revelstoke Nordic skiers have enjoyed a successful 2015-16 race season competing at Okanagan Cups, BC Cups, BC Midget Championships and NorAm events. After on-snow training camps throughout the month of November, the season opening events were consecutive NorAm race weekends in Canmore and Vernon. These events doubled as Youth Olympic Games qualifiers for athletes aged 15 – 17. Prior to the holiday season, athletes partook in the annual Holiday Camp in Revelstoke. A highlight of the camp was a nutrition and pre-race planning talk led by national Ski Mountaineering team member, Mel Bernier. A big thanks to Mel for her presentation and to Mountain Goodness Natural Foods for donating pre, during and post activity food and drink options for athletes to sample!

A huge thanks to our coaches for their exceptional work this season. Robyn Thomas, Mandy Kellner, Kellen Viznaugh, Kip Drobish and Bruce Granstrom have donated countless hours to help Coach Matt ensure the continued success of our Track Attack and Junior Development athletes.

Okanagan Cup and BC Winter Games Trials, January 2nd in Revelstoke

1st – Fiona Woodman, 2008 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

1st – Megan Norrie, 2010 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

1st – Ruby Serrouya, 2006 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

1st – Natalie Morrone, 2007 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

1st – Kolibri Drobish, 2002 Girls, 3.75km Classic Interval

1st – Alana Brittin, 2000 Girls, 5km Classic Interval

2nd – Irah Cameron-Harding, <2010 Boys, 1.5km Classic Interval

2nd – Norah Painter, 2008 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

2nd – Livia McMechan, 2009 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

2nd – Micayla MacIntosh, <2010 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

2nd – Elliot Wilson, 2004 Girls, 2.5km Classic Interval

2nd – Simon Blackie, 2001 Boys, 5km Classic Interval

2nd – Elizabeth Elliott, 2000 Girls, 5km Classic Interval

2nd – Marnie Graf, 30-39 Women, 10km Classic Interval

3rd – Nicholas Gill, 2009 Boys, 1.5km Classic Interval

3rd – Hamish Woodman, <2010 Boys, 1.5km Classic Interval

3rd – Emilie Paquin, 2008 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

3rd – Sela McMechan, <2010 Girls, 1.5km Classic Interval

3rd – Maeve MacLeod, 2005 Girls, 2.5km Classic Interval

3rd – Jaclyn Elliott, 2003 Girls, 3.75km Classic Interval

3rd – Erik Brosch, 2001 Boys, 5km Classic Interval

3rd – Patrick McMechan, 30-39 Men, 10km Classic Interval

BC Cup, January 9th and 10th in Vernon

1st – Alana Brittin, 2000 Girls, 750m Classic Sprints

1st – Fiona Woodman, 2008 Girls, 800m Free Interval

1st – Hamish Woodman, <2010 Boys, 800m Free Interval

1st – Ruby Serrouya, 2006 Girls, 1.4km Free Interval

1st – Robyn Thomas, 30-39 Women, 7.5km Free Interval

2nd – Francesco Morrone, 2004 Boys, 2km Free Interval

3rd – Elizabeth Elliott, 2000 Girls, 750m Classic Sprints

3rd – Simon Blackie, 2001 Boys 5km Free Interval

3rd – Mandy Kellner, 40-49 Women, 7.5km Free Interval

BC Midget Championships, January 23rd and 24th in Salmon Arm

1st – Ruby Serrouya, 2006 Girls, 2km Classic Interval

1st – Ruby Serrouya, 2006 Girls, 300m Free Sprints

Okanagan Cup, January 31st in Kelowna

2nd – Ruby Serrouya, 2006 Girls, 2km Free Interval

2nd – Elizabeth Elliott, 2000 Girls, 6km Free Interval

3rd – Jaclyn Elliott, 2003 Girls, 3km Free Interval

3rd – Alana Brittin, 2000 Girls, 6km Free Interval

BC Cup, February 7th and 8th in Kamloops

1st – Ruby Serrouya, 2006 Girls, 1.5km Free Interval

1st – Robyn Thomas, 30-39 Women, 10km Free Interval

1st – Alana Brittin, 2000 Girls, 5km Classic Mass

1st – Robyn Thomas, 30-39 Women, 10km Classic Mass

2nd – Nyssa Thomas, 2005 Girls, 2.5km Free Interval

2nd – Beth Granstrom, 2000 Girls, 5km Free Interval

2nd – Maeve MacLeod, 2005 Girls, 2.5km Classic Interval

2nd – Elizabeth Elliott, 2000 Girls, 5km Classic Mass

3rd – Maeve MacLeod, 2005 Girls, 2.5km Free Interval

3rd – Emily MacLeod, 2003 Girls, 2.5km Free Interval

3rd – Elizabeth Elliott, 2000 Girls, 5km Free Interval

3rd – Ruby Serrouya, 2006 Girls, 1.5km Classic Mass

3rd – Isobel Wilson, 2007 Girls, 1.5km Classic Mass

3rd – Elliot Wilson, 2004 Boys, 2.5km Classic Mass

3rd – Kolibri Drobish, 2002 Girls, 3.5km Classic Mass

3rd – Beth Granstrom, 2000 Girls, 5km Classic Mass

3rd – Penny Page-Brittin, 40-49 Women, 10km Classic Mass

Western Championships, February 19th – 21st in Prince George

1st – Elizabeth Elliott, 2000 Girls, 3.75km Free Interval

1st – Alana Brittin, 2000 Girls, 800m Classic Sprint and 7.5km Classic Mass

2nd – Elizabeth Elliott, 2000 Girls, 800m Classic Sprint

2nd – Beth Granstrom, 2000 Girls, 3.75km Free Interval

3rd – Alana Brittin, 2000 Girls, 3.75km Free Interval

3rd – Simon Blackie, 2001 Boys, 3.75km Free Interval Start and 10km Classic Mass

---

Elementary and High School Nordic Programs

We are continuing to provide opportunities for many of our local students to get on skinny sticks! By the start of March, fourth grade classes from Begbie View, Arrow Heights, Columbia Park and Ecole des Glaciers will have come up for four morning sessions. Additionally, we have considerably expanded our Revelstoke Secondary School Nordic programming, with all physical education classes attending two or three morning sessions, equaling 22 total visit from RSS classes. Thanks to volunteers Louisa Fleming and Janette Vickers, and parent helpers for their work assisting Coach Matt with the grade four programs. Great work to Daniel Blackie, Kelsey Knoll and Ian Ward for their work assisting Coach Matt as paid leads with our RSS classes.

---

Adult Programs

We have had a successful run of technique-based adult instruction this Nordic season. All programs have seen considerable interest, including: Adult Classic and Skate Beginners on Monday nights; Adult Intermediate and Advanced (Classic and Skate) on Tuesday evenings or Thursday afternoons, One Day Classic and Skate Clinics and Private or Group Lessons. In addition, there has been continued interest in our free Wednesday Night Open Training sessions (on none Headlamp Hero Wednesdays). February 24th and March 2nd are the final two Open Training sessions of the season. Please contact Coach Matt if there are any adult programs you would like to see included in the future.

---

Headlamp Heroes 

101 skiers have taken part in our first three Headlamp Heroes events sponsored by Skookum, the Village Idiot, the Modern Bakeshop and Cafe and Mica Heliskiing! We have our final race, a 4×2.5km Mixed Technique Relay event on Wednesday, March 9th. Four skiers per team with one member of the opposite sex is required. The first two legs will be classic technique and the final two legs will be free technique. A big thanks to Flowt for sponsoring this season finale. Finally, thanks to the myriad of volunteers who have helped with the events, in particular, Wade Viznaugh for his ongoing efforts to ensure pristine trail conditions and smooth running events.

---

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT: COACHES

A CLUB IS NOTHING WITHOUT THE SPIRIT OF VOLUNTEERISM TO DRIVE IT IN A POSITIVE DIRECTION

Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club loves volunteer coaches! Our Bunnies, Jackrabbit, & Trailblazers programs are entirely led by volunteer coaches, and other programs like Ski S’kool, Track Attack, and Junior Development, while led by paid coaches need volunteer coach support too. If you love skiing and want to share your passion with others, this is the job for you! Don’t think you have enough experience? Start your coaching career as a Bunnies leader and progress from there. One of the many benefits of coaching is that it will greatly improve YOUR technique. This is a high impact job that allows you to directly contribute to the growth of cross­country skiing in our community, BC, and across Canada.

Coaching courses are scheduled every year in late October or early November and course fees are covered by RNSC. We encourage community members of all ages from Youth to Senior to become certified in National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). To learn more about the courses and to find out how you can be part of this program, please contact Matt Smider, [email protected] or Robyn Thomas, [email protected]

Thank you to all of our volunteer coaches who are serving our growing community of youth skiers!

2015/16 Coaches:

Daniel Blackie, Jasmin Brackenbury, Amelia Brown, Kristy Cameron, Gabriella Draboczi, Annmarie Gill, Kurt Grabinsky, Bruce Granstrom, Mandy Kellner, Bart Larson, Rory Luxmoore, Brendan MacIntosh, Pat McMechan, Koreen Morrone, Nikki Norrie, Simone Palmer, Dominic Paquin, Robyn Thomas, Janette Vickers, Kendra Von Bremen, Tanya Wolgram, Angus Woodman, Kellen  Viznaugh.

Following are those who have furthered their NCCP training in the past 2 years:

Introduction to Community Coaching (ICC): Daniel Blackie, Alana Brittin, Gabriella Draboczi, Elizabeth Elliot, Annmarie Gill, Beth Granstrom, Kate Granstrom, Kelsey Knoll, Pat McMechan, Brendan MacIntosh, Koreen Morrone, Dominic Paquin, Tanya Wolgram

Community Coaching (CC): Daniel Blackie, Gabriella Draboczi, Annmarie Gill, Brendan MacIntosh, Koreen Morrone, Robyn Thomas, Tanya Wolgram

Competition Coaching Intro (L2T): Dryland: Gabriella Draboczi, Mandy Kellner, Robyn Thomas

Competition Coaching Intro Advanced (T2T): Dryland & On­snow: Bruce Granstrom,Rory Luxmoore

---

Emergency Plan

Our Emergency plan can be viewed any time on line right here.

Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club – Rescue Plan

for Mount Macpherson Ski Trails

The Nordic trails are not patrolled

Ski at your own Risk

 

 

Emergency (Fire, Ambulance, Police, SAR)     911

Hospital     250-837-2131

Revelstoke Nordic Lodge     250-814-4264

Mt Macpherson Ski Area is located 7 kilometers south of the Trans Canada Highway on Highway 23 South (address is 2265 Hwy 23 South).

For emergencies needing transport off the ski trails call 911, describe the nature and location of the emergency and ask for Search and Rescue.

 

• Unless trained individuals are available the injured person should not be moved until SAR attends.

• First Aid packs with blankets and first aid kits are kept at the Ole Sandberg Cabin and in the Day Lodge Office. There is also a rescue pack located in a box at the bottom of Hydro Hill. If the victim cannot ski out on their own, use these packs to keep the victim warm until Search and Rescue can assist them.

• Between 9 am and 3 pm contact the Nordic Lodge at 837-4264 to report the accident. The Lodge Attendant may be able to assist with rescue.

•  The RNSC owns a snowmobile equipped with a toe bar and a rescue toboggan that are stored in the maintenance building.

•  The snowmobile is only to be driven by individuals that are familiar with snowmobile operation.

•  Only trained first aid attendants are to use the rescue toboggan to transport injured persons.

•  After rescue services have been contacted, please contact the club manager at 250-814-4264 to report the accident.

Membership Night

Our annual Membership night will be held on Monday, November 2nd, from 5pm to 8pm at the day lodge. Members night is your opportunity to purchase your 2015/16 membership with out the fees associated with online purchasing. All other memberships for the season will be available through www.zone4.ca.

Please come out and purchase your membership, chat with other members and learn a bit about the upcoming season. You will also have the opportunity to purchase a Coopers gift card; this is a major fund raiser for our Ski League.

We also reset our contact list as of Membership night; therefore, if you would like to continue to receive Nordic updates by email and newsletter, it is important to renew your membership on or before November 2nd.

We hope to see you there!

Thank you Natelle

On behalf of the entire RNSC, we would like to offer a sincere thank you to all of the hard work that Natelle put into our club last year. Natelle was our first Club Manager; she put in many long hour days and worked with the club in mind to sell day tickets, market and advertise the club, organize volunteers, help out with membership duties, clean the lodge and many, many more tasks. It has been wonderful to have her positive energy at the lodge, and her hard work to keep things running smoothly. Natelle, we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors. Sincerely, all of us!

Welcome Kelsey – our new Club Manager

Hello! My name is Kelsey, and I get to be the General Manager of the Nordic Club.  I am a new face to town, so I’ll tell you a bit about where I’ve been before now.

I grew up in Prince George, BC.  I grew up cross-country skiing at the trails there as a kid, then again as a teenager.  Since then, I’ve made sure to be near Nordic trails in some form.

I attended school at the University of British Columbia (UBC), finishing with a degree in Applied Biology, focusing on local food systems.  After I received my piece of paper, the opportunity to put my degree to use was thrown in my lap—I started a small-scale farm with three university friends on Vancouver Island, in Courtenay, BC.  For two seasons, we grew vegetables and chickens and beans, selling at the farmers’ market.  During the winter, I worked at the Mount Washington Nordic Centre (which was a hoot to say the least), and even learned to be a cross-country ski instructor.

Now I find myself in Revelstoke.  I moved here this spring to work as a wildland fire fighter with the Ministry of Forests. I am very excited about all the biking, running, and skiing adventures to be done in and around this lovely town, with the lovely people that live here.

I am looking forward to meeting you all, having skis and teas and laughs together.  Happy trails!

Ski League

We are looking forward to another great season of youth programs!  We had a great turnout at Mass Registration of keen parents registering their kids for our Skill Development Program including Bunnies, Jackrabbits, Trailblazers, Track Attack, and Junior Development.

Sign up for Ski League at Members Night where Matt, Robyn, and Janette can answer your questions. All registrations other than Members Night are through Zone4.ca (find link at revelstokenordic.org).  Deadline for registration is Nov. 30, 2015.

Thanks to all families who helped us with fundraising over the summer.  We also had great representation at the Emergency Services Food Drive.  Uniform orders for racers (or anyone interested in wearing an awesome Revelstoke jersey or jacket) will be taken by Tracey Larson before the end of October.

The Ski League athletes are looking for fundraising support from all Club Members for the 2015-16 season.  Coopers Gift Cards supporting the Nordic Ski League will be available for purchase at Members Night. Natalie MacLeod and Vanessa Morrow are our Coopers Card Coordinators.  Members will be able to purchase the gift cards from the Club Manager during office hours at the Lodge throughout the season.  Speak with Natalie at Member’s Night if you have questions.

 **Mark your calendars for another great Pancake Breakfast to get our season started Dec. 5th!**

K-9 Skiing

Another winter approaches and the RNSC offers another great opportunity to ski with your dog. The trail configuration and rules remain the same as last year. Please purchase your membership at www.Zone4.ca or at membership night November 2nd at RNSC Macpherson lodge. Be sure to include your dog’s name and description and read the dog loop agreement. Any questions can be directed to Paula Hill at [email protected].

As always your fellow dogger, Paula Hill

Welcome Duane – our Operations Manager

I came from a south Saskatchewan farm where x-c skiing was unheard of. At about 10 years old, after being inspired by a film about Jackrabbit Johannsen, I fashioned my first pair of skis from a dismantled toboggan with a pair of old work boots hinged onto it. I learned quickly the beauty of traveling through natural areas in the winter time. Getting a great outdoor workout in windy Saskatchewan in the wintertime was a fabulous bonus. I’ve been loving Nordic skiing ever since!
Coming to BC as tree-planters, my partner Josee and I were lucky enough to work on a crew that traveled all over BC. We fell in love with Revelstoke and decided it is the best place in BC  to live.  We still believe that after having lived in Revelstoke for 25 years now.
Having lived in a few other great x-c skiing towns like Thunderbay, Saskatoon and Canmore, I recognize what a great facility Revelstoke has in the RNSC. I hope to use my skills to help take great care of the facilities, equipment and trails to enhance the skiing experience for all.
Have a great snowy season! – Duane

Race Team

Our Race Team, comprised of our Track Attack and Junior Development skiers, has been dryland training throughout the summer and fall. Co-lead by Coach Matt and his longtime ski pal, Coach Matti (Little), the summer program had two weekly sessions for interested TA and three for the JD. Once September rolls around, the TA and JD crews have three and four weekly team workouts respectively. Undoubtedly, these hard working skiers have been spotted around town: roller skiing up Mt. Revelstoke, wheelin’ around the Greenbelt or down Airport Way, running the trails at Macpherson or in Rogers Pass, swimming in Williamson, or doing pull ups, dips, ball throws and box jumps at the Mount Begbie playground. All of these workouts would not be possible without our dedicated support crew of volunteer Race Team coaches: Robyn Thomas, Bruce Granstrom, Mandy Kellner and Kellen Viznaugh. Furthermore, we cannot forget to thank parent volunteers who perform a variety of other tasks during the offseason: from coordinating Coopers Cards and sourcing team gear, to fundraiser food prep and endless bottle sorting. Several local business and organizations deserve to be mentioned for supporting our Race Team. Our local shops, Skookum and Flowt, continue to provide support for our skiers and our Nordic club. A big thank you goes out to the Knights of Pythias and the Revelstoke Credit Union for their financial support of athletes who attended last year’s Ski Nationals in Thunder Bay. Additionally, our local TD Branch has provided financial support for the benefit of our Ski League programming. Finally, a new partnership with Helios Rehabilitation and Performance is helping to provide athletes with the necessary expertise to stay healthy and competitive.

Last spring, Revelstoke Nordic had three athletes named to the BC Development Squad and three athletes named to the BC Talent Squad. Development Squad athletes, Alana Brittin, Beth Granstrom and Elizabeth Elliott have had the opportunity to attend three training camps this season: two dryland camps in Whistler in August and Revelstoke in September, and an on-snow camp at the Haig Glacier in the middle of July! Similarly, our Talent Squad skiers, Kate Granstrom, Simon Blackie and Erik Brosch (and reserve Talent Squad skier Rebecca Brosch) attended a dryland camp in 100 Mile House at the beginning of September. All seven skiers and another reserve Talent Squad skier, Miika Park, will be attending the BC Development and Talent Squad On-Snow Camp in Whistler in mid-November. In addition to the team camps, Revelstoke Nordic was represented at the Regional Dryland Camp in Vernon this September and we will have a large contingent at the Regional On-Snow Camp in Vernon in late November. Between regular weekly training and a busy camp schedule, these athletes have been diligent and disciplined in their preparation for the fast approaching 2015-16 season. Our first events are less than six weeks away and are followed quickly by our local Okanagan Cup on January 2^nd. This event holds great importance to many of our 2002 and 2001 skiers who will be vying to qualify for this year’s BC Winter Games in Penticton.

Coaches Training

Revelstoke Nordic is proud to offer free training to new and existing coaches through the NCCP workshops. In September, five coaches partook in the Introductory Community Coaching held at the Macpherson Nordic Lodge. On October 23^rd – 25^th, the Learning to Train (Dryland) course will be held in Revelstoke, followed by the On-Snow portion on December 14^th – 16^th. Finally, the Community Coaching workshop will be held in Revelstoke on December 4^th – 6^th. For more information or to get involved with coaching at Revelstoke Nordic, please contact Coach Matt ([email protected]).

Ski S’kool and Revelstoke Secondary School

Once again, we will be hosting all of Revelstoke’s Grade 4s as part of our Ski S’kool programming. Additionally, we will be expanding our Revelstoke Secondary School program to provide eight Physical Education classes with three Nordic sessions each. If you are interested in instructing with our Ski Skool or RSS programs and have weekday daytime availability during the ski season, please contact [email protected].

RBC Sports Day in Canada

As part of the RBC Sport Day in Canada the Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club is hosting a snowshoe tour November 15th beginning at Noon (weather dependent).
If snow is not covering the trails we will lead a hike on the snowshoe loop. The Seven Bridges loop is 4.5 kilometers and travels through woods and cut blocks along streams and the Nordic ski trails.
Please bring snowshoes and water. Hiking poles may be helpful. A few pairs of snowshoes will be available.
The RNSC lodge will be open. This is a free event for anyone that wants to participate, even if you aren’t a member.

Masters Skiing

Whether you’re a closet competitor or a weekday plodder, there may be an opportunity for you to get involved in our Adult programs.

• Beginner Technique Sessions on Monday evenings (7-8:30). Classic: January 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th. Skate: February 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd.
• Intermediate and Advanced Technique Sessions either Tuesday evenings (7:30-9) or Thursday afternoons (12:30-2). 10 weeks alternating between classic and skate beginning week of January 5th. Choose between five or 10 sessions.
• Open Training on Wednesday evenings (7-8:30) beginning December 2nd.

For those who cannot commit to full session dates, you may be interested in the One Day Ski Clinic on Sunday, January 17^th. Private, semi-private and group lessons can also be arranged. Finally, individualized training plans are available for those interested in focusing their training efforts. Contact [email protected] for more information or visit “Programs” on the website for dates, times and pricing.

Headlamp Heroes

Our successful toonie race series is returning and everyone is welcome to participate! These events are not just for the hardcore racer-types; they are always filled with shovel loads of laughter and snow banks of understanding…  All events are held on Wednesdays beginning at 7pm (registration from 6-6:30). Dates are as follows (format TBD): December 16^th, January 13^th, February 10^th, March 9^th.

Bottle Depot Donations

We are pleased to announce an easy way to help make our club even more awesome! You can now easily donate the proceeds from your bottle returns to the  Revelstoke Nordic Club – Ski League right at the bottle depot!

It’s easy:

1. Bring your bottles to the bottle depot and sort as usual.
2. Let the wonderful people at the counter know that you wish the proceeds from your returns to be applied to Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club account – #19.

That’s it!  Money will be used to fund our Youth Programs (including equipment for the ski league to special events for skiers members of all ages). Please spread the word about this easy and worthwhile fundraiser to your family and friends.

Brushing Party

On Sunday, October 18th, we held a work party to tackle the brush (woody shrubs) growing up on our ski trails.  Fifteen volunteers came out to wield brush saws, chainsaws and a pole saw.  We managed to get a lot accomplished, brushing Mickey’s Loop, part of Main Loop, Log Roller and Hydro Way.  We also had a team tackle low hanging tree limbs that would get in the way of the groomer and the lights along Mickey’s Loop.

Additionally, this year we’ve had a huge help from the BC Wildfire crews who have brushed a good chunk of the north trails for us.

A big thanks to all those who came out.  Hope to see you again next year! Now, we just wait for snow…

PRESIDENTS REPORT

The Club still does not have a President. This is an important position that needs to be filled. The President provides the leadership for the club and the Executive. It is well supported by the new Club Manager. If you are interested please contact any member of the Executive. We need you!

TRAIL LIGHTS ARE HERE!

By the time the snow flies, the RNSC will have 6 kilometers of new trail lighting for night skiing. Thanks to the generous donation of the Columbia Basin Trust ($75,000), CSRD Area B Economic Opportunity Fund ($75,000), and the City of Revelstoke’s Tourism Infrastructure Fund ($70,000) Nordic skiers will be able to “ski under the lights” this winter. The trail lights have been installed on the following trails: Sprint loop, Terrain Park, Main Loop up to Mickey Olson Trail turn off, Mickey Olson Trail, Evelyns Choice, Titan and Dynamite Trails. The lights are activated by a solar solenoid as it begins to get dark in the evening, and turn off by a pre-set timer (either 9:30 or 10:00 PM). Now you will have no excuse not to get out on your skies for some great exercise.

 Membership Night

Members Night will be Monday, November 3rd from 5 to 8pm at the day lodge. Membership Night is the only night Zone4 online registration fees will be waived.  Members must be present to electronically sign the waiver. We will be accepting cash or cheque only. Memberships may also be purchased on zone4 at any time. Processing fees are $2 fee for the 1st person and $1 for each additional person plus 3% for paying by Credit Card. Again, these fees will be waived at members night.

There will also be a small gear swap. If you have gear to sell, contact coach Matt Smider at [email protected] for more information.

You will also have the opportunity to support our ski league program by purchasing Coopers Cards. Natalie MacLeod is our new Coopers Card coordinator.  Members will be able to purchase the gift cards from the Club Manager during office hours at the lodge throughout the season.’ Please come out and purchase your membership, chat with other members and learn a bit about the upcoming season

CLUB MEMBERSHIP FEES

Dog loop

Once again we can look forward to spending time Nordic skiing with our dogs in a mountain setting. The RNSC dog loop will be the same configuration as last season. The loop is approximately five kilometers and contains two connector trails to vary your enjoyment. The trailhead is located immediately to the right as you enter the parking lot.

This season the club will be replacing temporary signs with more permanent metal signs to identify designated “dog” and ” no dog” trails. A few other dog loop signs will now be mounted on the permanent posts. Less time will now be required to set up the loop each season and the groomers will not have to climb out of the groomer to move and replace the signs. A couple of temporary signs will still be needed and if you see one buried in the new fallen snow please reposition it.

Registering to ski with your dog on the loop is easy. Go to zone4.ca or sign up during membership night (November 3rd 5-8 PM) . Just read and sign the dog loop agreement and provide your dog’s name and description, and then complete the membership form. Your card will be available at the club lodge. No separate card will be given for your dog. There is no additional fee for your dog.

Thank you for your efforts to make this loop poo-free and enjoyable for all club members.

A special thank you to our club members who volunteered their time to brush the Nordic trails. This allows grooming earlier and later in the season and increases our ski season.

Feel free to contact me throughout the season.

Paula Hill, [email protected]

Seven Bridges Snowshoe Trail

For the second year, an approximately four kilometer snowshoe trail will be available at Macpherson. RNSC has marked and mapped a loop trail that begins and ends near the lodge. You can start at the Stimulus Mountain bike trailhead located at the far right corner of the parking lot across from the lodge or walk past the lodge down Mickey’s. The Seven Bridges snowshoe trailhead will be on your right. This section is also part of the Stimulus Mountain bike trail.

Permanent signs now mark the trail heads and intersections and yellow diamonds on trees mark the trail. Recent brushing has been done in the section above Evelyn’s. In areas without trees ( for example cut blocks) bamboo wands and orange flagging tape will be used.

Season and day pass holders are not required to pay an additional fee. Others are asked to pay a parking lot fee at the lodge.

Please follow the trail and avoid walking on groomed ski trails. All snowshoe trails are dog friendly at Macpherson.

Special thanks to Keith Mcnab for all his efforts on the snowshoe trail.

Paula Hill

Teck BC Cup #2 – January 24-25 –  Volunteers Needed!

The Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club (RNSC) is hosting the Tech BC Cup #2 on January 24^th and 25^th.

This is a two day race for athletes of all ages. The Saturday is a classic interval start race and the Sunday a mass start freestyle event. This is a big race for our club. We are anticipating approximately 400 racers! To ensure a successful race we will need many volunteers for timing, first aid, course marshaling, concession and parking. Volunteer needs will be between 7:00am and 2:00pm depending on the job. No experience needed! If you would like to volunteer to help make this race a success please contact Penny at 250-837-3497 or [email protected].

Buy and Sell

The nordic website now has a buy and sell feature.

If you would like to sell a Nordic item, this is the place.

Please send an email to [email protected] or [email protected] with the details of your item.

Please include

• A picture of the item
• A brief description including age, condition, colour and complete model name
• The asking price
• Your preferred contact information (this will be posted)

Skill Development Programs

Throughout the summer, our Race Team athletes (TA and JD skiers) were offered two weekly sessions coordinated by Coach Matt and guest coach Matti Little. In addition, Clare Peacock, Brittany Evans, Megan Evans, Bruce Granstrom and Rory Luxmoore were instrumental in providing coaching support throughout the summer months. Once September rolled around, we ramped up to three and four weekly sessions for TA and JD, respectively. Dryland training consists of a variety of activities: ski striding (with poles), roller skiing, running, biking, hiking, swimming, strength circuits and an abundance of games to throw into the mix. Thus far, we have had skiers attend a Talent Squad in 100 Mile House and a Regional Dryland Camp in Vernon. Our skiers are now looking forward to the Talent Squad and the Regional On-Snow Camps, both at Sovereign Lake/Silver Star in November. By the first weekend of December, we’ll be attending our first races of the 2014-15 ski season! Clare, Rory and Bruce are continuing their superb coaching support throughout the fall, plus we have added the help of guest coaches Hanna Thomson and Nikki Norrie during our roller skiing sessions. In addition to our stellar coaches, we should thank all the volunteers for the various efforts; from coordinating Coopers Cards and ordering clothing to making food for fundraisers and counting bottles.

Our Bunnies and Rabbits are looking forward to another year on snow. We are pleased to announce that the Rabbits coaches will be holding an additional Tuesday session for those looking to get out on snow more often! Anyone interested in helping to coach our Bunnies and Rabbits programs should contact [email protected].

 Coaches Training

As coaches, it is important that we take time to develop our skills to meet the changing needs of our athletes. At the start of October, eight new coaches took the Community Coaching Introduction (ICC) course. The follow-up Community Coaching (CC) workshop will also be offered locally on December 12^th – 14^th. Bruce and Rory are pursuing their next level of certification, Competitive Coaching Introduction (Training to Train). Coach Matt has completed his Learning Facilitator training for the ICC and CC courses and is also pursuing his next level of certification, Competitive Coaching Development (Learning to Compete). The RNSC is committed to supporting coaches interested in furthering their training. Please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] if you would like to get involved. We are always looking for new coaches!

Ski Skool

Our Ski Skool program will be up and running again in an expanded format. In addition to the Grade 4 program, we will also be bringing high school-aged skiers to the Nordic trails – look out! If you are interested in instructing our Ski Skool programs and have weekday daytime availability during the ski season, please contact [email protected].

Masters Skiing

This is a call to all adults who are interested in improving their technique, fitness or both. For those interested in Masters racing, this is a great season to get involved. In addition to the BC Cup we are hosting in January, the Canadian Masters Championships will be held in Kamloops from February 9^th – 15^th, 2015. Regardless of your Nordic aspirations, here’s how you can get involved (please see “Programs” for pricing details):

1)   Beginner Technique Sessions on Monday evenings (7-8:30). Classic: January 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th. Skate: February 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd.

2)   Intermediate and Advanced Technique Sessions either Tuesday evenings or Thursday evenings. 10 weeks alternating between classic and skate beginning week of January 5th.

3)   Open Training on Wednesday evenings beginning December 3^rd.

For those who cannot commit to full session dates, you may be interested in the One Day Ski Clinic on Sunday, January 11^th. Private, semi-private and group lessons can also be arranged. Finally, individualized training plans are available for those interested in focusing their training efforts. Contact [email protected] for more information.

Headlamp Heroes

Our successful toonie race series is back for a second season and the name is staying the same (regardless of whether or not headlamps will be necessary)! These are fun, laid-back events designed to give individuals an opportunity to compete in a casual environment and win some sweet swag!

All events are held on Wednesdays beginning at 7pm (registration from 6-6:30). Here’s the schedule:

December 10^th – Classic Individual Start

January 7^th – Skate Sprints

February 4^th – Skate Mass Start

March 4^th – Mixed Technique Relay

Please note: the membership list resets after the Membership night. Therefore, if you have not purchased your 2014/15 Nordic Membership on or before members night, you will not receive any more RNSC correspondences.

Start your snow dance!

President’s Report

Welcome back to what will hopefully be another great Nordic ski season!  Many new and exciting changes have happened with the Club’s services and facilities since the end of last ski season.  Please look inside this newsletter for more details.

As you know, with the exception of our club coach Matt Smider and our book keeper, all of the club’s activities are run by volunteers.  This is what has made our club so successful over the years and also what creates the heart and soul of the club.  We are always in need of volunteers to fill the clubs many volunteer roles and responsibilities (coaching for the children’s programs, ticket office duties, trail grooming, etc).  Please contact any one of the Club’s Executive members to find a way you can volunteer.

Remember that Members Night at the Lodge is Monday November 4th.  Please come out to meet your Club Executive as well as new and old members and to enjoy some friendly chats about Nordic skiing!

Don’t forget to do your snow dance so we can get skiing!

Dave Kaegi, Club President

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Welcome back Nordic Norm!

Dear Nordic Norm
I was in the ski shop the other day checking out what’s new for the 2014 season and came upon a pair of poles with a price tag over $400.00. What is going on here? Cross country skiing used to be an affordable family activity, but now prices are getting out of hand: don’t you think? By the way, where have you been hiding for the past 10 years or so?
Signed: Getting shafted?!!

Dear Need to get a grip.
It is funny you should be asking about the cost of high performance equipment. I had a conversation with my two old friends this summer on their way back from the Finnish Festival on Sointula Island.  Janni and Pentti were through Revelstoke on their return trip to Thunder Bay to attend a master’s dry land training camp at Lappe Nordic.
The conversation turned to the high cost of good equipment. Pentti was drifting off in the heat of the beautiful Revelstoke summers day and Janni was saying that he has never seen a ski shop owner yet who was driving around in a Ferrari. I then asked the simple question “What about poles”? Pentti returned to the conversation as he sat up in his chair and decreed that Poles were incredibly friendly people, despite the hardship endured after decades of Russian occupation. Janni, who is used to his best friends abstract conversational wondering simply agreed, but added Poles rarely moved over in races when you yell “track” but other than that were kind and generous souls. Straight answers are elusive after a glass of wine on a hot afternoon.
Here is my take on those fancy high priced poles. Honestly I would love to have a pair as they are super light and swing effortlessly, but having said that I do not own top of the line poles. Weight matters in elite athletics as it can carve seconds in a race. That is why World Cup skiers all have super light weight expensive poles (which by the way they don’t pay for as sponsors give them to their athletes). In my case, skiing around the Mickey Olson trail as fast as I can is a long way away from the World Cup. So what I do is try to balance the performance versus cost equation and purchase something that is relatively light but doesn’t require a mortgage to purchase. Since I am on the edge of being considered old, (I have stopped growing in height for a few decades or so) I no longer out-grow equipment. I look for something in the mid price range which is slightly heavier than expensive poles but not as heavy as the low cost item. I do insist on a cork grip as I find them way more comfortable than their plastic counterparts. I remember picking up a pair of Excel Galaxy poles on sale for just over 100 bucks, regular around 175. Expensive indeed, but still not the top of the line even in those days:  but they lasted 17 years (with a few grip changes as they wear out). The way I see it, I was skiing with good relatively light weight poles for around 7 bucks a season and for me that’s good value for good performance, which is always what I am looking for. All that said, if you are just starting out or just ski a few times a year, then it may be difficult to justify even the mid priced ski pole.
Oh yes, where have I been? Skiing naturally!!

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Membership Night

Members Night will be Monday, November 4th from 5 to 8pm at the day lodge. This was incorrectly printed in the leisure guide for Nov 5th. Sorry about the confusion. Membership registration begins at 5pm, followed by a general club information session at 6pm.
Membership Night is the only night online Zone4 registration fees will be waived.  Members must be present to electronically sign the waiver. We will be accepting cash or cheque only.
There will be computer kiosks set up and assistance to help members sign up electronically.  Please come early to avoid long wait times.

Memberships may also be purchased on zone4 at any time.

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Coach’s Update

Each passing week brings more anticipation and excitement for the coming ski season! Our Track Attack and Junior Development skiers were staying fit throughout the off-season, whether they were Nordic-specific training or competing in many of the great sports available to young Revelstokians.
During July and August, our training sessions ran Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Thank you to former Revelstoke Nordic racer Brittany Evans, who provided her coaching expertise for the twice-weekly workouts. Coaches Bruce Granstrom and Rory Luxmoore continue to be paramount to the program’s success, making themselves available to coach whenever called upon. Our fall program began in September and includes an additional Saturday session for all and Wednesday training for our older racers. Sessions are varied and include everything from trail runs up Mount Revelstoke to roller skis down Airport Way; Orienteering Races at Centennial Park to strength circuits at Mount Begbie Elementary. Please contact Coach Matt ([email protected]) if you are interested in training with our local Nordic juniors.
Last May, Alana Brittin and Elizabeth Elliot were named to the BC Talent Squad and participated at the Spring BC Team Camp in 100 Mile House – congratulations girls! September heralded training camp season and numerous Revelstoke skiers participated at training camps throughout BC. Four skiers attended the BC Talent Squad Camp in 100 Mile House; 12 skiers, plus parents, attended the Regional Dryland Camp in Salmon Arm; and four skiers attended the BC Development Squad Camp in Revelstoke. The opportunity to train with fellow skiers across the province provides a memorable experience and bodes well for our skier’s success this coming season.
In November, our skiers will yet again participate in both the BC Talent and Development Squad On-Snow Camps (November 14th – 17th) and the Regional On-Snow Camp (November 20th – 22nd) at Sovereign Lake Nordic Ski Club in Vernon. Coach Matt has had the good fortune to work at all September camps and will be coaching at both On-Snow Camps in November. This has provided a unique opportunity to interact with other coaches and has offered a first-hand look at how Revelstoke racers stack up against skiers across the province.
Our Ski League program is currently in the planning stages as we prepare special events and ensure all coaches are certified and ready to immerse themselves in the Nordic ski world. Similar to last season, our Rabbits and Trailblazer programs will begin Saturday, December 7th from 10am – noon and continue for 14 more Saturdays until March 8th. Our Bunnies will hit the trail on Saturday, January 4th from 10am – noon and continue for 9 more Saturdays until March 8th.
For the 2013/14 ski season, Revelstoke Nordic is excited to offer Headlamp Heroes: Wednesday Night Race Series & Training Sessions. Races will be run on the following dates: December 18th, January 15th, February 5th and March 5th @ 7pm.
Headlamp Heroes is an opportunity for young and old, novice and expert skiers to participate in a fun, laid-back race environment. Entry fee is $2 for members OR $2 plus trail fee for non-members. Races will be both classic and free technique and formats will vary from race to race. Bring your headlamps and fastest Nordic gear. There will be draw prizes and overall season awards presented at our final event.
In addition to races, we will also be offering Headlamp Heroes: Wednesday Night Training Sessions. These sessions are free (plus trail fee for non-members) and will begin December 4th @ 7pm and continue all season on non-race Wednesday nights. Sessions will be akin to a ‘group ride’ with the focus on developing fitness and different workout options depending on the skier’s training experience and objectives. Please contact Coach Matt ([email protected]) if you are interested in more information about Headlamp Heroes.
Finally, we are now offering an Adult Beginner course for 10 sessions beginning Saturday, January 4th from 10am – noon. This program will focus on the basics of Nordic technique and developing confidence on skis. Additionally, we are continuing to offer our popular Adult Intermediate and Advanced course. This course emphasis technique development and will be run at the same dates and times as last season: Tuesdays, 7 – 8:30pm and Thursdays 12:30 – 2:00pm.
Check out our complete list of programs for the coming season.
Thanks for reading and good luck with your respective snow dances!

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Ski Skool needs instructors!

Our Ski Skool program extends Nordic ski instruction to the 4th graders of Revelstoke. We are in need of volunteer instructors to help coach these young skiers. Previous instructional experience or qualifications are not necessary. We are simply looking  for individuals who are comfortable on Nordic skis and have a knack for working with energetic youngsters.
Exact dates & times are TBD. Expected dates are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in January from 8:30 – 11:30am. Ideally, volunteers will assist with all four sessions of a particular weekday.
Please contact Coach Matt ([email protected]) if you are interested in instructing.

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Introductory Community Coaching Workshop: November 1st & 2nd

CCBC has generously obliged our request for an Introduction to Community Coaching Workshop in Revelstoke, November 1st & 2nd. Introductory Community Coaching is the first level of coaching courses and is a CCC/CCBC minimum requirement for anyone interested in coaching our Ski League programs.
“The “ICC” program is intended to provide parents and other novice coaches with basic information and a feeling of confidence as they begin their role as a coach. It is entry level, and there are no prerequisites except enthusiasm and the minimum age requirement of 14 years.” (From CCBC).

Friday, November 1st: 5:00 – 9:00pm
Saturday, November 2nd: 8:30am – 5:00pm
@ Macpherson Nordic Lodge

Cost for the course is $65 for CCBC members, $80 for non-members. Revelstoke Nordic will cover the cost of the course for anyone interested in providing coaching services to the club.
Please let Coach Matt ([email protected]) know if you are available for the course no later than Monday, October 28th.

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Tech Okanagan Cup, BC Winter Games Time Trial

We are hosting a Tech Okanagan Cup and BC Winter Games time trial on December 29^th.  We will need many volunteers for timing, concession and course marshaling to ensure a successful day.  If you would like to volunteer, please contact Penny at [email protected].

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Hello Fellow Doggers

The RNSC Dog Loop will be better than ever this year. Review the latest trail improvements described in this month’s newsletter.  One of the goals this season is to decrease the use of plastic bags. More trowels posts will make cleaning up after your dog easier. Don’t forget to register your dog and include a description when filling out your membership information. Please continue your great stewardship of our special dog ski area. Please volunteer for club activities, whether lodge duty selling day passes or parking cars for the Lantern ski.

As always your comments are welcome.

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing increases in popularity every year and RNSC has enthusiastically responded.  New this season will be a marked snowshoe trail. Stimulus, a popular green mountain bike trail, will be modified for use by snowshoers. It is a loop trail accessible near the stadium/ lodge area. Those without an annual RNSC pass will pay a five dollar parking fee per vehicle, or a $20 annual parking fee. As with mountain bike trails, this snowshoe trail will be dog friendly. Snowshoers are expected to stay off the groomed ski trails and to minimize damage at trail intersections.

[symple_divider style=”fadeout” margin_top=”20px” margin_bottom=”20px”]

We need a Ticket Volunteer Organizer!

Trail Work – Name that Trail

In response to member requests the club has built a new trail! The change will make grooming easier and provide a wider, less steep connection between BCIT and Beaver Lake Road for non-Doggers. In addition, the new configuration will reduce potential collisions that steep hills with blind corners can cause.

Communications

Rescue Plan