GOLDEN NORDIC

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: Conditions Superb Throughout on April 8th

2011-04-08T13:59:00.000-07:00

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: Conditions Superb Throughout on April 8th: "Just got back from teaching a skate clinic and the snow level has not begun to drop yet on the upper trails! This is CRAZY! There is still a..."

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: Skigo Canada steps in as the first official sponso...

2011-04-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: Skigo Canada steps in as the first official sponso...: "With the announcement of a new level of race commitment in Golden, coupled with an early season cross border competition the weekend prior ..."

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: 2011 Event Update

2011-04-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: 2011 Event Update: "The Golden Nordic Ski Club has begun negotiations to create our event for next winter. Following discussions at Nationals we have tentativel..."

GNSC Video by Keith Nichol

2011-02-23T21:03:00.000-08:00

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: Pics from 15th Annual Huckleberry Loppet

2011-01-31T16:11:00.000-08:00

Dawn Mountain Challenge Ski Festival: Pics from 15th Annual Huckleberry Loppet: "Golden Nordic Racers on the start line for the 15/30km race A 30km racer makes his way up the lap lane on the second lap of the 15km course..."

Calling all Coach Wannabees!

2010-09-28T11:08:00.001-07:00

New Coaches Welcome!

With our expanded youth program this year, we will be looking for more coaches. We are lucky to have Troy Hudson with us this season who will be offering both an Introduction to Community Coaching Course (Oct. 9,10) and a Community Coaching Course (Nov.19, 20, 21) as well as other training sessions for our coaches in the early season. Contact Troy to register at 344-7489. Course fees will be covered by our club for those who volunteer coach. A criminal record check is necessary.

Call for New Coaches for 2010-11 Season

2010-09-13T08:50:00.001-07:00

Hi All,

The GNSC is always seeking out new and fun coaching staff for their youth programs. We will be offering coaching courses at a significantly reduced price to make it an enticing opportunity to get involved this season. Contact Joan Dolinsky or Troy Hudson for more information.

Happy Fall!

Great Team Shot from Jasper

2010-08-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

Lake Louise to Jasper Training Camp

2010-08-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Cathy, a Cross Country Canada employee and great friend joined us on our trip.

Cole, Charlie and I were representing the Golden Nordic Racers along with numerous friends and family who joined us on our 240km ride over two days a couple weekends back. The kids are getting strong!!

Ski Team Training Hard for Upcoming Season

2010-08-30T16:49:00.000-07:00

Here third year athlete Charlie Kimber shows us what it's all about on a ski hill road time trial.

Daylodge is a GO!

2010-08-16T17:42:00.000-07:00

Busy volunteers stocking wood for the winter.

Parking lot coming together with room for 60 vehicles.

Building platform for the new daylodge, scheduled for completion by November.

What a difference 72 hours makes. And the progress will be rapid from here on in!

This week, there will be a crew from Kamloops driving the screw piles into the ground where the stakes are set, so that the foundation can be set upon them. We also have decided to go with geothermal and of the two quotes we received, we decided to have John Managh's Hellbent company do this for us. It will be drilled within the next two weeks. This will mean much less firewood handling.

The poles for our powerline are in town and we await writing of contracts for putting the powerline in place. The well and septic are also scheduled for the coming weeks.

We have been fund raising and want everyone to be a part of funding this project. Money is very tight. The "adopt a log" fundraiser is simple: Drop by the Golden Gear Exchange and adopt as many logs as you wish for $50 per log. The adoptees will have their name or message posted on them.

Also, today (August 15) we had a successful work party go at the firewood pile, with a great effort from Steve and Linda Conway, Liam Raudaschl, Kellie Erwin, Joan Dolinsky and me bucking, splitting, loading and stacking for about 5 hours.

This pile is still not done and we ask that other members take up the charge: the pile is just off the new parking area at the north end of Dipsy Doodle. If you go after 5PM the place should be Quiet, otherwise there will be lots of activity with trucks and machinery, so you may not get access. If it is hot, don't go. We must avoid burning the place up.

To see future photos of the project, check out the website. These are the first we are posting. We will be needing a huge number of hours volunteered through the next two months. Let Wayne Manzer know by email if you can come for a day or more. Then we can contact you when we are ready for your help. This could include staining lumber, helping erect the walls, clean up, chinking, etc. This is your big chance to really help out.

Again, my goal is to see this project comes together before snow flies and it will be a challenge. The real issue is the additional costs which were very much unanticipated. Another grant or two and some good donations are necessary.

We'll keep you posted!

Jeff Dolinsky

Golden Nordic Racers Results: 2009/10 Season

2010-04-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

Dawn Mountain Challenge 7th Mitch Harris 02:19.0 .8km FR 8th Cole Stewart 02:24.1 .8km FR 10th William Kimber 02:54.0 .8km FR 11th Zach McLean 03:02.8 .8km FR 4th Siobhan Jones 02:37.6 .8km FR 5th Carly Lloyd 03:01.7 .8km FR 6th Mitch Harris 16:56.6 5km CL 8th Cole Stewart 19:51.2 5km CL 9th Charlie Kimber 20:52.1 5km CL 10th Dario Prather 21:33.2 5km CL 4th Siobhan Jones 19:19.0 5km CL 5th Carly Lloyd 21:04.8 5km CL Alberta Cup 1 11th Cole Stewart 01:36.9 .5km CL 13th Mitch Harris 01:37.3 .5km CL 7th Siobhan Jones 01:45.3 .5km CL NorAm 1 21st Mitch Harris 17:34.0 5km FR 35th Cole Stewart 18:36.7 5km FR 28th Mitch Harris 02:29.0 .8km FR 11th Siobhan Jones 02:54.7 .8km FR NorAm 2 18th Siobhan Jones 42:49.1 10km CL Kootenay Cup 1/2 1st Julian Hudson 01:45.0 .5km FR 6th Mitch Harris 17:55.0 5km FR 8th Cole Stewart 19:19.0 5km FR 12th Charlie Kimber 20:32.0 5km FR 13th William Kimber 20:47.0 5km FR 14th Zach McLean 22:36.0 5km FR 5th Siobhan Jones 20:47.0 5km FR Kootenay Cup 2 4th Julian Hudson 01:55.4 .5km CL 7th Mitchell Harris 20:00.0 5km CL 8th Cole Stewart 21:22.5 5km CL 10th Charlie Kimber 22:40.8 5km CL 12th Dario Prather 24:55.6 5km CL 13th William Kimber 25:07.3 5km CL 14th Zach McLean 25:25.5 5km CL 3rd Siobhan Jones 22:21.4 5km CL: Huckleberry Loppet 1st Mitch Harris 45:38.0 11km CL 2nd Cole Stewart 47:21.0 11km CL 3rd Charlie Kimber 47:53.0 11km CL 4th Dario Prather 54:40.0 11km CL 5th Zach McLean 55:08.0 11km CL 6th William Kimber 57:00.0 11km CL 1st Troy Hudson 51:12.0 11km CL 2nd Julian Hudson 31:11.5 4km CL 2nd Chase Stewart 32:44.4 4km CL 3rd Naomi Lenstra 25:19.5 4km CL 4th Erin DeKleer 31:28.0 4km CL 1st Siobhan Jones 51:49.0 11km CL 2nd Carly Lloyd 57:49.0 11km CL Toby Creek Skate Loppet 1st Charlie Kimber 1:05:20 20km FR 1st Mitch Harris 28:52.4 10km FR 2nd Cole Stewart 30:16.5 10km FR 2nd William Kimber 34:37.8 3rd Zach McLean 36:18.8 10km FR 1st Siobhan Jones 35:04.4 10km FR 2nd Julian Hudson 33:09.4 5km FR 4th Chase Stewart 31:01.7 5km FR BC Cup 1 19th Mitch Harris 17:49.0 5km CL 29th Cole Stewart 18:27.6 5km CL 42nd Dario Prather 21:53.6 5km CL 5th Siobhan Jones 19:59.9 5km CL 5th Julian Hudson 08:50.6 1km FR 16th Mitch Harris 15:07.8 5km FR 21st Cole Stewart 15:23.1 5km FR 8th Siobhan Jones 17:48.7 5km FR Western Canadian Championships 5th Siobhan Jones 23:45.4 6km CL 5th Cole Stewart 20:33.0 6km CL 7th Cole Stewart 19:26.4 6km FR 2nd Siobhan Jones 20:20.4 6km FR 6th Cole Stewart 01:18.1 .5km FR 3rd Siobhan Jones 01:27.4 .5km FR Kananaskis Ski Marathon 2nd Mitch Harris 1:02:55 15km CL 4th Cole Stewart 1:04:47 15km CL BC Winter Games 6th Charlie Kimber 17:07.8 5km CL 6th Charlie Kimber 01:14.3 .4km FR 4th Charlie Kimber 06:37.5 2.2 CL TR Western Canadian Masters Championships 2nd Troy Hudson 1:09:29 15km FR 2nd Troy Hudson 56:23.0 15km CL National Championships 46th Siobhan Jones 28:50.9 7.5km CL 85th Cole Stewart 01:24.4 .6km FR 31st Siobhan Jones 01:31.5 .6km FR 85th Cole Stewart 25:03.0 7.5km FR 36th Siobhan Jones 14:49.0 5km FR 75th Cole Stewart 16:43.0 5km CL 35th Siobhan Jones 17:53.0 5km CL

Golden Nordic gets a new website

2010-01-17T11:48:00.000-08:00

Hi All, with a new job with Cross Country Canada as their new Athlete Development Coordinator and a busy winter of ski racing there hasn't been much time for blogging. So....as this blog slowly fades away a new site will take its place with a rolling news page similar to this site.

The new site goes life sometime in the next couple weeks and is spearheaded by Sanne van der Ros and Dave Best of Best Impressions Photography.

It looks awesome and will have all of the features that the current site lacks.

check it at www.goldennordicclub.ca soon.

CTV Olympics - Rosslands decision not to fund athlete causes rift

2009-09-21T16:37:00.001-07:00

I think we need to do whatever we can to get our Kootenay boy to the Olympics. Local fundraiser perhaps? Rossland....I'm ashamed of you. It's $10,000 to reach his Olympic goals on home turf for the never ending support and benefits George sends back after every single race with Rossland in the results.

2009-06-03T21:41:00.000-07:00

World Cup Calendar Announced for 2009/10

2009-06-01T21:51:00.000-07:00

The Sub-Committee for the Cross-Country World Cup was working hard in Cavtat last week to finalize the World Cup Calendar 2009/10. In the calendar, there are 24 World Cup competitions (the Tour and the Final both count as one) in 11 different countries in North America and Europe.
The season will kick off in Beitostoelen (NOR) on 21st- 22nd November and will then move to Kuusamo (FIN) for the Nordic Opening where the traditional programme with a sprint and an interval start competition will take place. New at the beginning of December is the city sprint in Düsseldorf (GER) moving from the weekend before Christmas. With Davos (SUI) a traditional venue follows before the first period concludes a new World Cup venue of Rogla (SLO). It is the first time since 1993 that a Cross-Country World Cup will be held in the home country of the sprint World Cup winner Petra Majdic.
After Christmas, the FIS Tour de Ski will kick off on 1st January in Oberhof (GER) with three Stages in a row before moving to Prague (CZE) for an evening sprint event. After the first rest day, the Tour will continue with a Stage from Cortina to Toblach (both ITA) while the sixth Stage will be staged directly at the rebuilt stadium of Toblach. Another rest day follows before the Tour is traditionally concluding in Val di Fiemme (ITA) with a mass start competition and the Final climb to the Alpe Cermis.
After the Tour, the World Cup continues with weekends in Otepää (EST, 16th-17th January) and Rybinsk (RUS, 22nd-24th January). The third period of the Cross-Country Calendar features the pre-Olympic races in Canmore (CAN) and the Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver which will take place from 12th - 28th February 2009.
After the Games, the Cross-Country family will conclude the World Cup season in Scandinavia with the traditional competitions in Lahti (FIN), Drammen (NOR), Oslo (NOR), Stockholm (SWE) and Falun (SWE). In Lahti, for the first time since several years, a relay and pursuit will be on the schedule while Oslo will organize the test events for the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 2011 in the rebuilt venue at Holmenkollen with a sprint and a mass start long distance race. Like last year, Stockholm and Falun will host the World Cup Final which is a four-stage mini Tour.
The FIS Nordic Junior World Championships will return to Germany next season after hosting this event in 2002. In Hinterzarten in the Black Forest the World Cup skiers of tomorrow will fight for the medals from 24th to 31st January. Please click here to see the World Cup Calendar 2009/2010

Officiating Opportunities open up for GNSC members

2009-05-25T09:27:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone, this is a note to all who have helped out or might be interested in working with the Golden Nordic Club in an Officiating role. If you know anyone who did not make it to this list please send this email forward.

The Golden Nordic Ski Club Society (GNSCS) is entering into a new 3 year phased plan to create and implement a new series of race hosting and infrastructure development upgrades. These upgrades include the construction of a daylodge, a maintenance building for our snow cat, a timing shelter for event hosting and the construction of an additional 6-8 km of trails above the existing Beaver loop. We are currently designing and laying out a new 3.3, 3.75 and 5km race course which will be, once completed, fully FIS sanctioned trails capable of hosting Provincial, National and International events.

This season we have three events planned, up from two last year and will need to continue strengthening our volunteer officials program. I have to say, that I was so excited to see so many new faces come out of the woodwork to assist with the Dawn Mountain Challenge last year and also our great crew of officials who have stood with the Huckleberry Loppet year after year. As many of you may know, Maxine Lockeridge is stepping down as the Huckleberry Race Coordinator this year after many great seasons of assembling this event. Thank you so much Maxine for all that you have created in our truly wonderful community driven event.

The Dawn Mountain Challenge is running again this season and has actually bumped out a NorAm weekend to take over this early season spot. We will, again this year, be the FIRST winter race in North America!!!! So, we expect our numbers to go up from this past winter from just under 100 up to likely about 150. The event will again take place (snow permitting) at KHMR and Dawn Mountain and will host a night sprint and a individual time trial as last year. For this season though we intend to utilize the new race trails.
This will take place on November 28-29th. Anyone who was there last year will know that this a great chance to see our National Team out in full force, providing an exciting spectator friendly venue at KHMR. Everyone who was here last year loved it and look forward to another great race weekend.

The Huckleberry loppet is I believe entering its 15th season and we hope to get many of the great group of volunteers and participants as last year. For this season we have moved the loppet forward to Jan 31st. We hope to build a small amount on this already great event by hitting up the Alberta clubs with incentives to come out (no idea what yet-If you have any ideas let me know). Again the event will take place on our beautiful system of lower trails and will be lengthening courses from 11 and 22km to 16 and 32km to bring us more in line with other loppet events. It is a great course!!!

For the big finale the club was nominated to host the Western Canadian Masters Championships this coming season. The event will take place on March 11-13th and will host athletes over the age of 30 for a three day race event which includes a day of racing up in Field on the Tally-Ho trail. Jeff is the Mastermind behind this plan. After having a representative ski our loppet last winter they immediately offered the event to our club. The courses are all quite easy, multiple loops of the Beaver and Chickadee and will provide our club the opportunity to showcase our great community spirit. We can expect upwards of 200 people for that event.

These events and others over the next few years will allow our club to develop as a racing venue which will bring in more revenue for club projects, contribute money back to the community and create a sustainable club into the future. The Alberta World Cup Society and Cross Country Canada have both stated that we would make the perfect venue to host an International event in the future. This is one of our intended goals as the community benefit would be huge. 40 million television viewers in Europe alone and 1500 people staying in the area as result!!!!

So, as you can see there are many great plans and opportunities to wet your feet with officiating, or continue your support of our events. The GNSCS will be hosting an Officials Level 1 course in October and would recommend all who wish to continue to help out at events or take on a committee role to take it. It is a fantastic course which takes place over one day and and evening (scheduled for Oct 16-17th). The cost is very low and the club may be able to subsidize part of it as the time draws nearer.

With these three events this season, and chances of hosting other events in the future we will be creating a Racing Committee which will oversee our events and construct a plan for future hosting, culminating with the eventual hosting in a World Cup and the legacy which it would leave behind. The Alberta World Cup Society sees great potential in our club and has offered 5 Officiating positions at their upcoming World Cup in Feb. 2010 to develop our racing committee. This event is the precursor to the Olympics the following weekend and will provide you the opportunity to see first hand how events of this magnitude are run. If you are interested please respond to me in the next few days as we are creating an officiating team by mid next week. It would be great to have you along. If you would like to get involved in event hosting within the club please respond to me as soon as you can.

Have a great spring everyone!
If you are interested in taking on a role please contact me at:

250.344.7489
goldenights@uniserve.com

Troy Hudson
GNSCS

CLOSED for the Season

2009-04-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Just a quick note to mention that the nordic center is now officially closed. We have already begun the summer work projects with applications going in for grants and tenure applications to the government for trail expansion and eventual DAYLODGE construction. WooHoo!

If anyone would like to put some tinme in out on teh trails this summer let me know. The area will be buzzing with activity as we create 5km of new trails above the existing Beaver loop that are unbelieveably beautiful. They have all been flagged already. Also our stadium will be completed this year to position us to be able to hold bigger events on our trails.

Stay tuned throughout the summer for random updates here with photos of our progress.

Have a great spring.

Your blogging skier,

Troy Hudson

Spring Dryland Ski Camp Tentatively Scheduled

2009-03-30T14:45:00.000-07:00

I am considering putting on a dryland ski camp on May 16th (a Saturday) for all of the youth program kids. This will not involve roller skiing but WILL involve GAMES!!, general strength, balance, flexibility, speed, running, cycling, ski walking/striding and a healthy lunch. I'm thinking around $20 for the camp and this would cover an "Athlete in Training" Tshirt and your lunch.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! We will need four coaches to make this work. If your child would like to participate place let me know. Any volunteers can also please contact me by email.

Spring has Sprung in Golden

2009-03-26T15:39:00.001-07:00

While the sun and snow is going or gone in downtown Golden we still have snow up at Dawn Mountain. The trailhead area has a brown patch but all of the upper trails are still in fair condition. I have not skied below Chickadee in the last couple days so I can't attest to conditions below. Throw on the skate skis or get out your klister folks!

March 14-15 Ski Camps

2009-03-05T13:09:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Just wanted to put it out there that there will be two ski camps happening in two weeks.

Intermediate Saturday Skate Camp

10-2pm

$40/each

Intermediate Sunday Classic Camp

10-2pm

$40/each

Each camp will cover waxing and ski care, basic and intermediate technique and individual video analysis.

Contact Troy Hudson at goldenights@uniserve.com or 344-7489 for more information.

Special Olympics at the loppet

2009-02-25T14:54:00.000-08:00

Text provided by Yolanda DeKleer:

Special Olympics Team Golden

Thinking of Olympics these days with the 2010 games approaching? Well, did you know that we have our very own Olympians right here in Golden? Last spring a group of volunteers started a local chapter of Special Olympics. The sports of bowling and cross-country skiing have been the initial sports to be offered with plans to add bocce and swimming this summer and snowshoeing for next winter. Since January, 4 individuals ranging from age 6 to 27 with intellectual disabilities have been learning to cross-country ski on a weekly basis with volunteer instructors. Having never skiied before it's been an a huge accomplishment for them to learn how to get skis on, how to rise and fall and how to move on skis. Our goal was to participate in the 1km event at the Huckleberry Loppet and that they did with big smiles and a crowd of cheering supporters! If you would like to be involved with Special Olympics please contact Ned Johnson at njohnson@innovationbuilding.com.

Here are these great skiers times. I can't wait to see them out there again next year. Those kids sure did know how to cheer, it was awesome! They all participated in the 1km event.

Shelly Poland 14:32
Victoria Ewing 15:33
Dawson Jackson 18:39
Alexander Bolt 19:10

Masters Team Launches this spring!

2009-02-23T23:20:00.000-08:00

As a part of the Golden Nordic Racers we will be offering a training program for adults (aged 25+). Here is some info on the program. Achieve your goals....create new ones.

50 weeks of training (3.5 hrs/wk)

100 hours instructed training

75 hours of supported training

Race event support (waxing, race analysis)

Course costs cover one winter race and one summer race

**Custom Training Plans cater to individual time constraints**

Max HR and Zone Threshold Training

Regular Video Analysis

Classic and Skate technique analysis and instruction

Rollerski instruction and usage in the summer

Program begins May 1st and finishes the last week of March 2010

Pick a goal.......the Dawn Mountain Challenge, the Huckleberry Loppet, the BC Masters Championships....it's all up to you!

Contact Troy Hudson for more details.

goldenights@uniserve.com or 344-7489

$350/season, requires 5 people to run the program

A few more pics (Dana Hudson)

2009-02-23T23:10:00.000-08:00

The best medals anywhere!!!!

Julian shows us that lycra does make you faster!

Amelia at the start line and ready for action. She came first in the under 6 1km event.
Look out Jeff she means business.

A winning wax combination for our 2009 Loppet

2009-02-23T20:02:00.000-08:00

Hi, just for those of you who participated in the loppet and were stumped on the wax here is what we used, along with a few other of the Masters skiers.

Glide wax:

Swix LF7 with a LF3 Cold Powder for added durability

Kick Wax:

Toko Green base binder ironed in
Swix Extra Blue (2 or 3 layers depending on the skier)
Start MFW Red (+2 to -3 degrees) 2 thin layers
VR45 or VR50 cover (for extra glide) 1 layer

This was definitely the winning combo of the day with a few of the top skiers using it.

Just thought you guys might be interested.

Stay tuned as there will be a spring waxing clinic coming up in the near future at Selkirk Sports.
An email will be sent out in advance.

Happy Skiing.

Photos from the loppet (Cheryl Goodwin)

2009-02-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

Here are a few shots that I think are beautiful. Thanks so much Cheryl for coming out and taking some great shots! These are all low res shots, the high res shots are all available.

Huckleberry Loppet 2009 Official Results

2009-02-23T19:25:00.000-08:00

2009 Huckleberry Loppet
Event Results
22-Feb-09
Air Temp: +2
Snow Temp: -6

1km Boys/Girls Rabbits (6 and under)

Amelia Hudson 7:52
Daela Dalzell 7:58
Ainslee Dalzell 10:42
Finley Gustafson 10:43
Bella Schacher 10:52
Calissa Tamelin 11:24
Molly Caldwell 13:09
Carver Schacher 19:21
Vardon Schacher 19:24
Lucy Rose Wilson No Time
Mara Parkinson DNS
Reid Parkinson DNS

4km Boys/Girls Rabbits (6 and under)

Rowan Heim 36:27:00
Jona Craig 47:20:00
Marika Sutter 50:13:00
Kaleb Sinclair-Hobbs 51:04:00
Douglas Caldwell 51:47:00
Odin Sinclair-Hobbs 1:06:16
Kjell Osborne 1:06:32
Finnegan Craig 1:07:44
Seth Netuka DNS

4km Girls 7-9

Kristyn Tamelin 29:16:00
Erin Kubian 29:21:00
Lily Bethel 50:14:00
Anna Sutter 58:11:00
Maya Netuka DNS

4km Girls 10-13

Joy Johnson 22:10
Erin DeKleer 26:24:00
Kelsey Lloyd 26:35:00
Petra Sutter 31:36:00
Marci Drees 45:44:00
Romy Parkinson DNS
Megan Netuka DNS
Tiffany Netuka DNS

4km Girls 14-17

Carly Lloyd 16:05
Claire DeBoer 16:06
Carmen Dolinsky 19:10
Kay DeBoer 19:11

4km Boys 7-9

Matthew Swallow 22:59
Callum Dykes 26:25:00
Bram DeKleer 27:03:00
Julian Hudson 27:17:00
Stewart Drees 29:19:00
Robert Caldwell 47:52:00

11km Boys 14-17

William Kimber 1:08:23
Dario Prather 1:09:23
Charlie Kimber DSQ

8km Recreation Women (18+)

Olwyn Ringheim 1:07:45

8km Recreation Men (18+)

Wayne Manzer 54:43:00

11km Women (18-34)
Linley McLean 1:12:00

11km Women (35-50)

Sanne Van Der Ross 56:15:00
Carole Ruault 1:09:16
Heidi Kimber 1:20:28
Alison Coe 1:30:41

11km Women (51+)

Debra Aumond 1:05:38
Diane Wilson 1:07:55
Isobel Freeman 1:17:40
Jeanette McCarron 1:17:56

11km Men (35-50)

Konrad Grass 50:45:00
Erwin Perzinger 1:01:58
David Kimber 1:29:45
Julian England 1:34:22

11km Men (51+)

Will Devlin 58:50:00
Bruce Fairley 1:01:43
Bruce McMahon 1:02:19
Stephen Dykes 1:10:04
John Mirehouse 1:18:56
Alan Shragie 1:28:13
Tom Coe 1:30:11

22km Men (18-34)

Erik Memmi 1:39:24
Jens Larner 1:53:39
Brian Gustafson DNF

22km Women (18-34)

Magi Scallion 1:29:59
Jessica Stichelbout 2:03:08

22km Men (35-50)

Darryl Mekechuk 1:23:22
Yuri Lipkov 1:24:55
Bruce Kirkby 1:28:39
Martin Steinheber 1:42:09
Tom Raudaschl 1:43:28
Jeff Dolinsky 1:47:51
Mark Kudryk 1:55:21
Michael Dalzell DNF
John Bou DNF

22km Women (35-50)

Kim Kitching 1:41:22
Joan Dolinsky 2:02:20

22km Men (51+)

Lyle Wilson 1:26:34
Per Gaarder 1:50:04
Russ Lybarger 1:50:19
Dermott Kennedy 1:54:09
Ian Rowe 2:04:40
Dirk Templeman-Kluit DNS
Gerry Kemp DNF

22km Women (51+)

Susanne Kennedy 2:13:49
Sue Rowe 2:24:25
Eva Gaarder DNF
Debbie Shragie NT

Siobhan makes the BC Team....if only she were Canadian!

2009-02-18T15:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Mom Tina.....
Lightning Fast Siobhan at Kimberley last weekend.

Siobhan, our speed racer exchange athlete from Australia has just found out that she was elected to the BC Team due to her outstanding performances throughout the season.

Unfortunately she is not a Canadian citizen and will have to revoke the opportunity. She was selected in Canmore today by a Cross Country Canada representative to represent BC at Nationals in Duntroon, Ontario.

She has also elected to head home a bit early so wouldn't be able to attend regardless. I am trying to sweet talk thenm into coming back next winter. We are pondering adoption of the whole family and having them move into our basement. If you see them out on the trails or on the street please feel free to hold them ransom until next winter!!!!! Congratualtions Again Siobhan, I'm soooooo proud!

Last Weeks Chocolate Chip Cookie Cup a hit with the little ones.

2009-02-17T22:41:00.001-08:00

Kids awaiting their turn at the start gate

Celebrating victories with friends........yummy.

A-Bomb (aka Amelia) awaits her start

Oh man, that medal is as big as his head. I didn`t see those cookies!

Pre-race games with his coach Sanne.

The 2nd Annual Chocolate Chip Cookie Cup was another huge success with the ski league kids who tested their metal against their friends around a 100m, 200m, and 800m course.

This was the first event where we got the chance to put our new race bibs to the test and they were a hit with the kids. Most of them wanted to keep them. Another huge thanks needs to go out to CBT, Ringheim and LP for sponsoring them.
The goal of the event is to encourage youth to get involved with racing, to encourage their teammate and to have a ridiculous amount of fun while doing so. There were almost 40 kids entered in the event and all went home with, if they weren`t eaten on the spot, a beautiful chocolate chip cookie for a medal. The top three winners in each group received a Cross Country BC water bottle as well.

This year was a classic sprint. I can`t wait to put this event together for next year and make it even bigger and better. It would be fun to get all of the Rabbit groups from the East Kootenays together for a massive event. We`ll see. The plate is already filling up for next winter. This size is so easy to manage and organize. Keep it Simple. There is always something to be said for that...

Here are a couple pics from the event.

Busy Weekend on the way

2009-02-17T22:33:00.000-08:00

This weekend is our 13th annual Huckleberry Loppet along the Western Canadian Championships over in Canmore. I'll be doing double duty as groomer and coach for the loppet this year and will be staying close to home for Sunday so I can ski with my kids in the loppet. Thursday we are in Canmore for Day 1 of Westerns and will be there on Saturday as well.

The loppet is a fantastic event where lycra clad racers meet weekend warriors and beginners of all ages in a fun and family oriented event with tonnes of draw prizes, loads of food and as always and incredible day of skiing at our very own Dawn Mountain.

Here is a pic from last years event to wet your appetite for some great skiing and snow conditions.

See you there. I'm the guy with massive bags under his eyes and trying to keep up with a seven year old

More of Kimberley. Photos that is.

2009-02-17T22:25:00.000-08:00

Goldens Favorite Female Skier from Kimberley. Sorry 'bout the nose there Nicole. Siobhan has been beaten for that one.....
The team struting their stuff after a victorious weekend

Dr. J (Julian) showing that lycra who's boss. Man, that boy is cute in the stretchies..

Kimberley Pics....WooHoo!

2009-02-17T22:18:00.001-08:00

Apres Bowling on Saturday Night
The Juvenile Delinquent Winners collect their shwag. S-Bomb picked a Fernie ski pass while
Steph went for the Sirius Radio....sweet.

Cole hammering to Goldens fastest time in the Juvenile Boys skate. Nicely done.

Soibhan laying it all on the line for her 1st place finish

Cole and Mitch in the bull pen at the start of the Juv. Boys Skate race. Very cool shot!!

Kimberley Kootenay Cup big success for Golden

2009-02-17T21:42:00.000-08:00

The Golden crew went down to Kimberley expecting to do well as many of the teams have retained many of their older athletes in prep for the upcoming Western Championships, the precursor for the National Championships in Ontario.

While some of the faster skier were absent we had perhaps the best race weekend of the season.

Julian Hudson, the bloggers son, had a fantastic weekend meeting new friends, skiing in a race suit for the first time (thanks Siobhan) AND skiing very fast. Due to the low numbers at the event this season Julian raced up a category into the PeeWees (9-10 yrs) while still only just 7. I'm pretty excited seeing him out there rippin' it up on the XC gear!

Charlie had the best skis of his life and finished very respectfully with times ahead of many of his senior brethren. Good job Charlie!

Cole and Mitch were faced with the three fastest skiers in the Kootenays and came in 4th and 5th on both days with Cole in the lead on Saturday and Mitch on Sunday. Will, Dario and Zach all performed to their fullest with improvements in all of their charted times throughout the winter.

Siobhan, our Australian female wonder star came out on top both days with excellent skiing and very fast skis thanks to yours truly. She actually beat the majority of the guys in her age group! You did me proud Siobhan.

Saturday Skate (Free) Technique Mass Start:

Julian (1.5km) 7:25 PeeWee 4th (1st Atom Boy)
Charlie (3.5km) 15:50 Midget 1st
Cole (5km) 17:57 Juvenile 4th
Mitch (5km) 18:18 " 5th
Will ( " ) 21:26 " 6th
Zach ( " ) 23:43 " 8th
Siobhan ( " ) 18:35 " 1st

Sunday Classic Interval Start:

Julian (1.5km) 8:42 PeeWee 4th (2nd Atom Boy)
Charlie (4 km) 16:28 Midget 1st
Mitch (4 km) 14:21 Juvenile 4th
Cole (4 km) 14:40 Juvenile 5th
Will (4 km) 17:47 Juvenile 6th
Dario (4 km) 17:50 Juvenile 7th
Zach (4 km) 18:14 Juvenile 8th
Siobhan (4 km) 13:43 Juvenile 1st !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Photos to follow

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cup only two days away

2009-02-09T22:43:00.000-08:00

This is the second year that the Golden Nordic Ski Club is hosting a club race called the Chocolate Chip Cookie Cup. The C4 as we'll call it is a sprint race event for all of the Rabbits and Track Attack skiers to hone their skills and collect their sprint stickers. This fast paced course is from 100m to 800m depending on the age group. Here are a couple great pics of the skate event from 2008. This year will be a classic sprint race. If anyone would like to help out contact Troy Hudson.

Golden Gets Race Bibs!!

2009-02-09T22:36:00.000-08:00

Oh yah.....we're in the big time now baby with a set of beautiful new race bibs sponsored by Columbia Basin Trust, LP Building Products and Ringheim and Company. We were able to pick up 110 bibs in a variety of sizes along with 24 relay bibs. Have a look at the pic. We'll get a better one this week.

Just in time for the loppet and the Chocolate Chip Cookie Cup!!!!

BC Championships in Kelowna

2009-02-09T17:09:00.001-08:00

It was a great time and a heck of a learning experience for all of us in Kelowna this past weekend. After leaving town on Friday morning we drove through to the Telemark Ski Club in West Kelowna (West Bank) to go check out the courses and pre-run them. The 7.5km loop is one of he most fun race courses I have seen with tonnes of climbs followed by steep and sharp cornered downhills. Cole, Mitch and I took of on that course while Siobhan went and skied the 5km course with some buds from Sovereign Lake ski club. Julian found his favorite hill in BC and played there with Tina while we took some time to learn our appropriate lines.

That evening Cole went for a shower in our room and the lights went out. Not being able to find the breaker I opened the bathroom door so at least he could see in there. Well within about two minutes the fire alarm sounded in our room. Freaked out and not wanting to bug our hotel neighbors I grabbed a towel and started fanning the fire alarm. Well........I accidentally clipped it with the corner of the towel and immediately set off EVERY alarm in the whole hotel. There had to be 200 people evacuating from the building while two fire trucks came and made sure nothing was wrong, even though I told them the story. Holy Embarrassing!

The following day we had a great time in the skate race, nailing the glide wax with a new found trick. We used LF 10 as a base with a thin layer of HF 8 on top with some LF3 Cold Powder designed for cold snow or abrasive conditions. It worked like a charm!!!

Siobhan went out and came 6th overall in her category which had over 25 athletes. Julian (who didn't get the fancy wax job) came 7th in his age group of 23 and Mitch and Cole came 21 and 22 respectively in probably the most difficult field of the competition which had over 30 athletes in it.

Sunday yielded some more frustrating results for the seniors when Mitch was disqualified in the Team Relay for skating around a corner in the classic only race. They managed pretty good times but unfortunately Cole and Siobhans times races were also scratches and did not get results for the day.

Julian, pulled off a 5th place in a field of 9 teams when he formed an unofficial team with Sovereign Lake Nordics.

Start wax beat out Swix in a battle for best grip on Sunday (which doesn't happen often) with snow temps of +3 and air temps of +7 by mid day!

Check out some great shots!!

Lady Grey Grade 7 Ski Program a huge success

2009-02-02T10:18:00.001-08:00

For the third season we have held a Grade 7 ski program. This season Lady Grey had the skis for the month of January. In February the skis go to Nicholson Elementary.

I absolutely love taking part in this program as a coach and will be working on more programming in the future for possibly Grade 3's. These programs are dependant on grants.

Here area couple photos from our trip. This is Marilyn K-M's class. The snow conditions couldn't have been better.

The classes have 3 on snow classes plus an indoor session going over ski/boot and pole selection. Thanks to all of the teachers and students for making this program such a huge success.

Race Team off to Kelowna followed by Kimberley

2009-02-02T10:12:00.000-08:00

The Senior Ski Team along with Julian Hudson are off to the BC Championships in Kelowna this coming weekend. We will post pics when we get back!! Check out the Telemark Ski Club website. Very nice site.

Also there is a cool movie of their club there too. When I watched the vid I saw a kid that looked alot like Julian. Indeed it was. It is from our trip there last winter. This is a great race and the kids really love it there.

In two weeks we head to Kimberley for the Kootenay Cup. This is our favorite event of teh year. Great friends, great trails and great skiing.

And a few more......

2009-02-02T09:51:00.000-08:00

Amelia's doppelganger. Holy Moly they are cute!

On the start line. Wow Will is skinny!

Golden Nordic Racers represent. Cole and Charlie #2 and #3

Siobhan featuring a 1st place medal around her neck!

Here are a few more pics from the Toby Creek Skate Loppet on Feb 1st

2009-02-02T09:45:00.000-08:00

The team displays their race success booty. Charlie won

a huge box of Kicking Horse Coffee...I'm very jealous! Julian scored a great pair

of collapsible hiking poles, perhaps an omen of the summer to come.

Cole coming through the stadium on his way out onto the 5km loop

Happy racers! Cole, Siobhan and Charlie.

Julian showing excellent skating form for his first skate race ever. 7 year olds

on skate skis is possibly the coolest thing EVER!!! Check out that flat ski.

Golden Nordic Racers Have A Successful Race Day at Toby Creek Skate Loppet

2009-02-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

Well, I must say that this is the best results day for our team this season. We brought home five top three finishes which just so happen to include two form the Hudson family.

The team skied the 5km Skate course at Nipika Lodge on beautifully groomed trails and spectacular weather. Race start time was 11am and the air temp was -6 with the snow temp being about -8.5.

Cole, Siobhan, Charlie and Will (our new team member-bro to Charlie) came to the start line with Julian and myself (J's private coach). After the 20 and 10km skiers took off it was our turn.

The course had many great downhills and a one steep climb which was a great challenge for Julian (it is similar to SuperCharger.

The team did quite well even though the times weren't terribly fast.

5km results:

Siobhan 21:48.7 1st Juvenile Girls

Cole 21:21.8 2nd Juvenile Boys

Charlie 25:21.9 3rd Juvenile Boys

William 28:24.3 4th Junior Boys

Julian 53:53.8 2nd Boys (under 12)

2km results:

Amelia ------- 2nd Girls Rabbits (under 6)

Nipika Loppet a success for the Golden Nrdic Racers

2009-01-28T16:06:00.000-08:00

Success came in a few different forms last weekend when Mitchell Harris, Cole Stewart, Zach McClean and Claire DeBoer participated in the Nipika Classic Loppet. Zach and Claire both took first place in their respective categories (Juvenile Boys and Girls) while Mitch and Cole inadvertently took a wrong turn and instead of doing the 5km classic course they ended up skiing 18 km instead. While there was much cursing likely at the finish line both athletes are now pretty happy with their results considering they have never actually skied this far before. It was a huge distance for these kids to race and I am very impressed that they stuck it out and finished the event. Most impressive.The organizers took a bit of pity on these two athletes and gave them a couple great draw prizes for their hard work.

Mitch is taking the weekend off from racing as we are off to he BC Championships in Kelowna in two weeks. Cole on the other hand is joining Siobhan at Nipika again for the Toby Creek Loppet, a skate event which takes place on the same trail network. This time around, I think Cole will be watching the direction signs a bit more carefully!!

For Sale Items

2009-01-28T16:01:00.001-08:00

If any of you have items which you would like post up on the blog please let me know by sending me an email.

Mitchell Harris (ski team member) as the following items for sale.

size 41 Fischer RC5 Skate boot (NNN) brand new with new bindings for $250.00

182cm Fischer SCS Classic ski in great shape with lots of race wax (meaning....they are fast!) used with no binding. $200 one season old. Great ski for a young skier or light adult.

contact the Shelley at 344-5254 for more information

Huckleberry Loppet Approaches

2009-01-28T15:50:00.000-08:00

Maxine Lockeridge is seeking volunteers for the 13th Annual Huckleberry Loppet occuring on Feb 22nd. The loppet, a mass start event offers courses from 1km up to 20km and is a family oriented event focussing on participation not results. It is always a great event with people coming from far and wide to participate. We are actively seeking volunteers to help with timing, registration, prizes, bib distribution, feed stations and food. If you might have some spare time on that Sunday drop Maxine an email at mcmahonb@redshift.bc.ca

If you are interested in participating check out the website for a copy of the registration form early next week or have Maxine email you one right away.

Lost Transformers Helmet at the Golf Course

2009-01-13T19:16:00.000-08:00

Yes, a very large talking Optimus Prime helmet has disappeared from the north road intersection last Thursday after skiing at the Golf Course with the ski team.

Why were we skiing with an Optimus Prime helmet on our heads during training?

I'm afraid we'd have to kill you if we tell you. I'm sure you understand.

It is often heard bad mouthing the Decepticons, I wouldn't be surprised if they are the thieves.

It can be returned to Troy at 344-7489

Lost Poles at the Golf Course

2009-01-13T19:14:00.000-08:00

Hi there,
we were out at the golf course today jan 11, and left a pair of ski/hiking poles( blue ,Black diamond) just off the trailabout 100 meters from the cabin.When we returned someone had taken them. I was hoping you could send out an e-mail or post on the web site about this.I would really appreciate you doing this. if someone was to turn the poles in the could drop them by the hospital at the nurses station or contact me at 250-348-2140

thank you,

Adrienne LaFleur

Off to Canmore

2009-01-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

Mitch Harris, Cole Stewart and Zach McClean are heading off to Canmore for the Alberta Cup for two days of racing. We race on Sunday and Monday and will post some pics when we return. Wish them luck. This is Zach's first year of racing and we are really excited to see this much enthusiasm from a junior member.

We'll keep you posted.

6th Place at the BC Cup for Golden Nordic Racer

2009-01-03T15:13:00.001-08:00

Siobhan Jones, our new ski team member who has joined us from Australia for the winter placed 6th in her age category in Prince George today at the BC Cup #1 race. We are very excited to have her join us for the season and can't wait to get to a bunch of races with her this winter. Congrats Siobhan, we're proud of you!

Siobhan and her family Tina (mom) and Brendan (brother) are having a great timne here in Golden. Say hi to them if you see them out on the trails!

Happy New Year

2009-01-03T15:05:00.000-08:00

Wow, there is lots going on. Happy New Year to all first off. The trail conditions are exceptional so far this year with nearly all trails open and in good condition. Check the website for trail updates.

While there is seemingly lots of snow out there, we are in fact, about three weeks behind in snow depths compared with last winter. You may be wondering why that snow cat is sitting idle. Well there are still trail hazards that the snowmobiles are hitting on occasion so we do not want to jeopardize taking the cat out to do 1) damage to the snow cat and 2) damage to the trails by tilling up dirt.

While the snow depth is down it is not slowing down the people from getting out there and skiing. Again we are having a fantastic holidays with visitors and believe that we have nearly the same amount f members as last winter.

Get out there and ski.

Merry Christmas To All

2008-12-24T21:24:00.000-08:00

Have a wonderful and snowy Christmas from Troy Hudson (blogger/groomer/head coach). We hope to see you out on our trails this holiday season. Grooming will be done for Christmas morning. Expect to see at the very least Chickadee, Beaver, HawkOwl, Caribou and MooseMeat open with fresh grooming for your Christmas morning ski.

Tour de Ski only 3 days away!!!!!!

2008-12-23T18:08:00.001-08:00

The big names of skiing will be coming out to the third annual Tour de Ski, the essential race series of the season. Over 70 million people world wide tune into each race and it is sure to be incredible.

Its two days until Christmas, but its THREE days till the start of the Tour!!!!!!

Check out the site at:

http://www.tour-de-ski.com/fr/tour-de-ski-home-page.html

Its the most wonderful time of the year. :)

Trail Report: Dec 11th.

Yrs on Team: 2

Juvenille Boy

Charlie Kimber, one of our Junior Team Athletes in action.

2008-12-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

We just got this shot in tonight from Jeff Dolinsky and is a photo of one of our new up and coming skiers Charlie Kimber. As a new skier two years ago and experiencing his first racing this past weekend we have rounded up one more dude in lycra coming up through the ranks. His suit is in the mail. :)

Dave Best of BEST Impressions shots at the Night Sprints.

2008-12-03T14:20:00.000-08:00

Holy Cow, there are some Cross Country Canada Calendar shots in there for sure. This is just four shots out of three hours of shooting. I get to see the rest of them on Tuesday!!!

Have a look. Dave is a local photographer who has found an interest in shooting XC for our revamping 09/10 website and also for media relations work for the Golden Nordic Ski Club.

A couple more nicely composed shots. I have the high res shots coming.

2008-12-02T21:56:00.000-08:00

Sunday Classic TT pics

2008-12-02T21:45:00.000-08:00

Sunday was just about perfect exept that we could have done with about another 15cm's of snow. The stadium was looking pretty good though for coverage. The course was the 2.9k loop around Beaver. When done clockwidse there are few rests and the Junior Men and Junior Boys were definately feeling the burn by their last laps.

Dawn Mountain Challenge A Huge Success

2008-12-02T06:22:00.000-08:00

Well, the stars aligned for Golden first ever race weekend drawing more than 70 competitors from across Western Canada to compete in two race events and one fun event. The first day drew upon Kicking Horse Mountain Resorts Gondola Base area to create a 395m staged sprint loop which had 4 skiers at a time race for the finish. The first two skiers from each heat advanced to the next rounds and proved a great challenge for even the best athletes in the field.

WE were very fortunate to have almost the entire National Ski Team, Senior Development Team, Quebec Training Center and many high performance athletes from the Canmore/ Banff Corridor. Our volunteer crew was overjoyed with the chance to work with such great skiing talent and their hard work alone made this event the success that it was.

Have a look at some pics and we will be posting more as photos come in.

Zone 4 Back On Line

2008-11-21T19:09:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note that the entry registration has been reformatted and is back up online. It appears that I entered it into the wrong program so functionality was compromised. Things are good to go now though.

Get on there and register!!

Dawn Mountain Challenge Nears....Weather Foreast Favorable

2008-11-20T21:24:00.000-08:00

With the optimistic weather forecast for the next five days (flurries or periods of snow every day) it appears that the Challenge will be a go. With this comes some fantastic news on a National level. The National Ski Team and other world cup skiers may be making the trip to Golden if the snow comes down. West Yellostone NorAm was cancelled and all of these elite skiers are looking for a place to ski. Stay tuned for an update soon. This may become a sanctioned event if Technical Delegates and electronic timing can take place with a qualified timing crew. It could provide our group the opportunity to learn from some of the best officials in the world!

On another note it seems that Golden is also on the International radar. Golden is being considered as a possiblility to hold an International event down the road due to our proximity to Canmore, favorable snow conditions, fine trail network, and position on the Trans Canada Highway.

Golden is shining right now in the world of XC. It's so exciting. We'll see what comes down the pipes soon enough. I'll keep you posted. Let it snow!!!!!!!!!

The lycra comes out!

2008-11-13T22:30:00.000-08:00

You got it sports fans. With winter comes snow. With snow comes skiing. With skiing comes LYCRA. Whether you area lycra fan or not it does make its annual pilgrimage back out to the XC trails. I think the Golden Nordic Ski Team are pretty proud of their oh-so-tight fabric. After all it does make us faster. Now some of you may feel resentment towards us lycra ladden fashionistas but it just plain works better when you are training or racing hard.

98.6 is that magic number that all of us strive to remain at constant in our athletic endeavours. Yes 98.6, is the temperature of our internal combustion engine which keeps everything firing in order. When you stray too far on either side of that line things can get ugly. When your aerobic output is low or the temp is hovering well below your regular comfort barrier you need to add layers to your system. A wool or synthetic base layer, a mid layer and perhaps even an outer windproof barrier. These keep everything nice and toasty along with maintaining that essential core temperature. When you are skiing hard however and the temperatures aren't that cold thats when things can get really nasty.

Sure you make look stylish in your one piece downhill ski suit but what happens when you actually have to go uphill? That one piece traps all of that hot air which your body is desperately trying to dump into your suit keeping your clothes, and your body well above 98.6. This can cause excessive sweating, muscle fatigue and even diziness. When your body is cool and working hard an equal balance occurs. Sweat and heat rapidly wick away from the skin, the thin layer acts as a buffer against wind but allows your body to breath naturally. The cool air invigorates and stimulates muscles allowing you to ski longer and harder.

Lycra isn't bad people, it is simply a tool to keep us at 98.6

Do you have to wear lycra. No, no you don't. But.......don't feel like you have to be ashamed of sporting your flourescent pink and neon green tights with matching top and toque.

Actually........please do get rid of that thing. Black is always in. Just ask yourself, "What would JC wear", and oh yeah.......that's Johnny Cash.

Moraine Lake Open For Business

2008-11-13T19:43:00.000-08:00

As of Tuesday afternoon Moraine Lake Road over in Lake Louise is officially open and ready for the onslaught of skiers from AB and the Kootenays. We are headed over there on Sunday with the ski team but are considering going over on Saturday to do some family skiing. 8k's are open so it would make a good 15+ km first ski of the year for many people. Our kids are chomping at the bit to go and build some jumps and goof around and throw snowballs so apologies now if you are accidentally pelted with a snowball.....it must have been Julian.

Drive Safe.

The Cat Came Back... the Very Next Day!

2008-11-08T14:15:00.000-08:00

Last week our snowcat made it home from its long journey to Kelowna to get some major work done on it for the upcoming ski season. They went through our beautiful groomer and gave it a thorough cleaning, replaced the majority of the hydraulics from the engine back to the tiller, and installed our two hydraulics tracksetters. All we need now is snow.

Thank you very much to Steve Paccagnan of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort for presenting us a generous donation of $25,000 for the repairs and upgrades to allow us to have the best grooming possible for the upcoming season....now where is that white stuff?

Waxing Like A Pro (exerpt from Master Skier magazine)

2008-11-08T10:42:00.000-08:00

Here are some tips on preparing skis that hopefully will help you get to the next level as a ski technician.

1. When glide waxing skis for very cold conditions, it is essential to harden the base up. This is done by applying multiple layers of a very hard glide wax such as blue. These multiple layers are essential for fast skis in very cold dry aggressive snow where dry friction is a concern. This is important even for shorter races, as the goal is to make the base as hard as possible.

2. When waxing with a very hard glide wax, a common mistake is to not use enough heat. This results in an air pocket between the ski and the wax. A sure sign of this air pocket is if when the skis are scraped the wax 'springs' off the ski and goes all over the room. If the skis are ironed correctly, the wax should come off much like very fine sawdust. Another way of identifying improperly ironed cold wax is to look at the color. If the wax is dark, there is no air in there, if it is light, then there is air between the base and the wax and it needs to heated up again. Some people recommend scraping cold waxes when warm. This will result in a poorly prepared ski, although it is true that it is easier. A warm scrape takes the wax out of the most superficial layers of the ski base and also allows the scraper to dig into the soft warm base -- all bad things for the long-term health and short term gliding speed of the ski.

3. It is regularly recommended in wax clinics to use mountains of fluorocarbon powders or to 'brush up' the fluorocarbon powder after ironing for an extra good application job. After much testing and talking with wax chemists, I came to the conclusion that this must simply be an attempt to sell more expensive wax. If an appropriate amount of powder is applied and a very hot iron is used such that the necessary chemical reaction takes place, the job is done, period. There is no need to do anything else. You have certainly heard that it is not good for skis to apply fluorocarbons consecutively without multiple applications of hydrocarbon waxes in between? Why does this not apply to race day? My experience is that to apply multiple layers or a mountain of fluorocarbon powder results in more of a mess to take off the ski and polish, less disposable income and slower skis in the short term and long term. My recommendation is to simply do the job right the first time and sleep well. This recommendation is based on testing, experience, and in comparing notes with other World Cup technicians.

4. A Copper brush is a necessary element in every waxer’s kit. The Copper brush is the softest brush available. It does everything that any other metal brush does (remove wax, any hardened residue on the base, and dirt) except create structure which should be done with a stonegrinder or with structure tools. If a brush is creating structure on the base, it is certainly creating lots of hairs that will slow the ski down, especially in powder snow. This isn’t so important in Alpine skiing, but in Nordic skiing it is very important. The Copper brush should be used for general wax removal as well as especially after skiing and before waxing (every time), for cold wax removal (follow with nylon) and for removal of an HF wax in very dirty snow where it is critical to remove all paraffin based wax (HF waxes are paraffin based).

5. Rather than discarding old skis, specialize them. Have a pair stoneground for a particular condition such as cold and dry or for very wet. Then, when the conditions present themselves, there will be a good solution.

6. In dry climates such as the Rocky Mountains, or in especially dry conditions, aim “cold” when waxing. This means rather than waxing straight off the wax chart with a wax such as Red, mix Red and Blue (in especially dry snow). Wax charts are made with average humidity and climate in mind. 25F in New England produces a different type of snow than 25F in the high country of Colorado. This discrepancy needs to be accounted or when waxing.

7. In very dirty snow, the last 'drip on wax' needs to be brushed out very well. A Copper brush is excellent for this purpose. Otherwise, the dirt will stick to the paraffin resulting in slow (and dirty) skis.

8. One condition that is especially difficult when using kick wax is when snow temperatures are around 32F and there is new snow present. Often times Klister works in these conditions better than hard wax, but ices up. Carbon Silver Grip wax offers an excellent solution in these conditions – cover the klister with a thin layer of Silver hard wax which will result in faster glide and better kick (no icing).

9. Scraping technique is an integral and overlooked aspect of ski preparation. Make sure the scraper is not bending under the pressure of scraping the ski. Knees need to be bent to ensure even scraping strokes. The scraper needs to be held such that the waxer has complete control and the scraper is guided straight along the ski. I use one or both index fingers to guide my scraper so that it goes straight and remains flat. Remove wax with the scraper until the scraper barely comes into contact with the ski base. At this point, a brush should be used to remove the remaining wax.

10. Often times we apply a binder klister indoors and then wax outdoors in the cold, perhaps on the following day before a ski race. What sometimes happens in this scenario is that the binder klister is so hard and cold that the klister that gets applied over it never really adheres to it resulting in just binder klister on the base after a few kms. The solution is to warm up the binder klister so that the klister of the day bonds to it resulting in better durability.

11. When kick waxing on a day when good skis are desired, the kick zone should always be sanded. The idea is to have fast skis with good kick. Some people anticipate loosing their wax and, for this reason, apply their wax extra thick in the hope that after a while they will have perfect skis. The best solution is to sand the kick zone, apply a binder, and then the wax of the day. This results in good kick and glide for the entire ski. 180 grit sandpaper is generally appropriate.

12. There has been some confusion over Molybdenum and what it is used for. Basically every wax company now uses glide waxes with Molybdenum; it is clearly a better substance for ski waxing than Graphite in almost all scenarios. Molybdenum is best used for an underlying (or base layer on a microscopic level) layer to be followed by the wax of the day. This generally results in skis that are more static resistant, dirt resistant, more durable and faster. Generally Molybdenum is not used as a final layer because it does not glide as fast as straight HF waxes. The only time Molybdenum is recommended as a final layer (followed by a Fluorocarbon) is in dirty snow.

13. In general, when a kick wax is slipping, wax should be reapplied thicker or a change should be made to a softer wax. To wax longer, results in improved kick for a short while and slower skis. The bulk of the “kick” should come from the middle part of the ski. If this part is slipping, then it needs to be fixed. Waxing longer does not address this problem. Thicker or 'warmer' will.

Zone 4 Online Race Registration Now Open!

2008-11-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

We finished up the online registration package for for the Dawn Mountain Challenge the end of the month. There are categories for all from ages 6 and up so no excuses all get out there are and rac. This is our first race series ever so it is a bit of a milestone for our club. NIght time sprints with a classic time trial the following day. It will be a great early season workout.

If racing isn't your cup of tea, come on out and act as a volunteer. We never turn those away.

Time to put your hand up

2008-11-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

The end of the month Golden Nordic Ski Club will be hosting our first race series the Dawn Mountain Challenge. There has been an incredible amount of interest and can expect at least 100 out of town racers for the event. Foothills Nordic alone from Calgary is bringing 30 athletes of all ages. We should expect to have at least twenty locals and groups from World Cup Ski Academy, Banff Ski Runners, Kimberley Nordic Club, Rossland Nordic, some BC Team Members, and Revelstoke just to name the confirmed. This is Goldens moment to shine in the cross country spot light. What we need to do now is to get a good group of volunteers together to help coordinate the event. Positions required include, course controllers, timing officials and start/finish controllers. Give me a call or drop me an email.

Early Season Start

2008-11-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

Golden Alpine Holidays, just north of Golden alongside Kinbasket Lake runs a Nordic Altitude Training Camp in the Fall and the Spring. With about two feet of snow John Bell, the owner gave me a call and asked if I could come in and groom and caretake for them . I started on with the project last year.

We are having a great time up here with ample snow (2 ft.) and a great group of senior athletes from Foothills Nordic in Calgary. The skating was great yesterday and this morning (a bit icy though) and I just set up a classic track for them and they are off klistering and skiing. The temps have been pretty warm, with rain for a good part of yesterday. The Foothills group leaves tomorrow and I stay in for one more session with the Alberta World Cup Academy until Wednesday.

It's a bit strange being on actual skis again since the ski team has been on rollerskis for about 4 months now. I can't wait to get down to Vernon for the BC Talent Squad Camp with Mitch and Cole. It's going to be a blast.

Zone 4 Online Registration Now Online

2008-10-22T20:32:00.000-07:00

That's right, click the box on the left with the Zone4 logo and find Golden Nordic Club Registration on the menu. Click that guy and your in. For all of you out-of-towners you can now join online. You pay an extra $4 to register online but that is a big convenience for many people. Is it more convenient for you?

If you said NO then you can come out to our membership registration night on Thursday at 7pm.

See you there.

New Trail and Bridge

2008-10-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

Here is a shot from the top of the corner which will drop down onto our new bridge. This was about an hour before we finished cleaning up the corner, grading the bridge, and ditching the downslope on the far side. It is a beautiful meandering snake of a line which will bring many smiles this winter I suspect. I can't wait to ski it!

Beautiful Fall Day

2008-10-20T19:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture from today (October 20th) looking north towards the Clamshell. We sure are lucky to live in this great place. This is the last day for trail building of the year. The new Caribou is going to be magnificent this season to ski. Downhill skiers will love the shot above too. It's looking good!

Membership and Registration Night

2008-10-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, This coming Thursday is ski swap and Membership/Registration night. Don't miss it. Become a part of this fun, hip, and rapidly growing sport in Golden. If your cheap come check out the selection of used gear. We're all thrifty....we're nordic skiers.

5-7pm is the Gear Swap and Rabbits Registration Night

7-9pm is the Golden Nordic Ski Club AGM. Voice your opinion, take on Jeff for prez....were all in a voting kind of mode, at least 56% of us.

Late Summer at Dawn Mountain

2008-10-13T21:45:00.000-07:00

This shot was taken at the south Raven/Caribou junction where we built the new log span bridge. It was such a beautiful day out there. I don't have pictures of the following five days of pouring rain though. The soggy view wasn't nearly as beautiful as this one. Taken around August 26th, 2008.

Get a Sweat On!

2008-10-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend brings our annual volunteer workparty. It can't come soon enough by the looks of the snow on mountains. We will be brush mowing at the Golf Course Trails, grass seeding at Dawn Mountain, cutting wood for the cabins, burning slash piles, revitalizing the stream bed and bucking up a bunch of windfall. Don't be afraid to get dirty, show your support for your club. Strength in numbers applies. See you there! All hands are welcome.

Get Hooked Up!

2008-10-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

If you are a nordic skier in Golden become a "follower" of this blog. When you do so you will automatically get sent out an update when we post new items. Plus.... we look better because it shows that people actually read what we post.

Double bonus!

Level 1 Officials Course (Oct 18th)

2008-10-11T23:38:00.000-07:00

Hello All, If you are not skiing in the upcoming race weekend on Nov29/30 why not come out and volunteer with the club. We are actively seeking timing officials. A course is being offered on Oct 18th for interested parties. This course will provide you with everything you need to know about timekeeping for an event up to a Nationals Level Competition. The course is jammed into 1 day and we give you $25 towards the course. Your cost is $30.

Come on out and support your club. Contact Troy at -7489 for more info and to register for the course.

Call for Coaches

2008-10-11T23:19:00.000-07:00

We are always seeking out new coaches for our programs. We are a very serious group, with rarely a smile amongst the lot. If you are interested in becoming a coach please come out to the AGM on October 23rd at the College (7pm). We offer coach courses locally for people wanting to get into coaching for the first time. Our Youth Program teaches kids ages 5 and up to 17. There is also a Masters Group for adults seeking a few pointers.

Dawn Montain Nordic Center Signage

2008-10-11T23:06:00.001-07:00

Last year Joyce, one of our hardworking volunteers was albe to get some signage installed up at Dawn Mountain on Kicking Horse Trail. Following her lead, I approached Highways to get us signage down on Highway 95 or Hwy 1. I was informed by a friend last week that our signs were up on Hwy 95. I had to run out and get a picture right away. Here is the new signage for the Nordic Center. We sure look professional now. Fantastic! If only our sign was actually bigger than the KHMR one! haha

Bridges In!!!!

2008-10-11T22:56:00.000-07:00

We placed three bridges on the Caribou trail earlier this summer. We are now awaiting the verification of our lumber order which will plank two of the bridges later this month. The project was aloyt of fun as there were three completely different designs for teh bridges. The largest, which is a full log bridge has redirected the old 90 degree bend over the creek and now is a straight shot up the otherside. This bridge will be considerably safer, not to mention much wider, at 18 ft wide to allow the snowcat access to the entire Caribou Trail. This section of trail has been difficult to groom the past couple years as it was quite arrow and awkward to groom. Not this year. I can't wait to ski it.

Lumber donated to the club for event fencing.

2008-10-11T22:51:00.000-07:00

Nathan Briggs pulled a bunch of 2x8 out of his roof this summer and has been looking for a project to utilize it. I mentioned that the club is building some fences and V-Boards for race management in the stadium area and for safety fencing at bridges. He graciously donated about 45 9 ft 2x8's to the cause. This wood will create almost 120 ft of event fencing for this season and for many seasons to come.

Thanks very much Nate.

Racing Bib Sponsorship Program a huge success.

2008-10-11T22:47:00.000-07:00

Within two days of sending out an email to the club membership we filled the $2000 requirement to acquire 140 race bibs for our events. We are getting

25 Junior Bibs
60 Adult Regular Stretch Bibs
25 Adult Large Bibs
25 Relay Bibs for 4 person teams

We have to thank Columbia Basin Trust, Ringheim and Co., and LP Building Products for offering to help out with this worthy cause. We will be using these bibs for many years to come. I can't wait to see those at the loppet this year!

What are you doing Nov 29/30?

2008-10-11T22:29:00.000-07:00

If you are not intending to be on your race skis or are not already registered to help out with our first race weekend, you need to drop us a line to come be a volunteer. The Dawn Mountain Nordic Challenge is a multi day race event with a night sprint race on Nov 29 followed up the follwing morning with a Classic Time Trial. We are ACTIVELY seeking volunteers. Come sign up today!