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PHOTO COURTESY ALASKA NORDIC RACING
Anchorage...... 2 ANCHORAGE: STATEWIDE: MAT-SU: Eagle River...... 10 No off-season for Alaskans pack national Skiing in October? Fairbanks...... 13 NSAA’s trail team team, win distinct honor Skiing in October! Girdwood ...... 11 Kachemak ...... 12 Mat-Su ...... 9 4 8 9 Statewide ...... 7 2 October 2020
203 W. 15th Ave., #204 Anchorage, Alaska, 99501 Phone — 276-7609 Fax — 258-7609 Anchorage Nordic Skier Hotline — 248-6667 [email protected] Newsletter Of The Nordic Skiing Association Of Anchorage, Inc.
BOARD MEMBERS
As more people play outside, NSAA provides PRESIDENT Joey Caterinichio VICE PRESIDENT world-class trails, recreational opportunities Sara Miller SECRETARY Josh Niva TREASURER Message from NSAA Board and Staff Claire LeClair MEMBERS NSAA’s staff, board members and volunteers hope that pality’s world-class trail system and make the best of Tim Stone you have had a fun and active summer. Fall is upon us whatever Mother Nature (and our Kincaid Park snow Chris Seaman Mike Miller and we are here for you! We haven’t missed a beat and guns) provides. The uptake of trail over spring, summer Tim Miller continue working hard, as we have all summer, on trails, and winter is proof that people want to get outside during Will Earnhart programs, memberships and more. We have evolved with this pandemic, learn about and play on those trails. What OFFICE STAFF the new times and are looking at creative ways to continue better way to serve our community than to provide safe, Haley Johnston, Business Manager Sara Kamahele, Program Manager our events and programs. It is important that we continue groomed and maintained trails! Heather Liller, Office & Program Admin providing opportunities for members and the community NSAA will continue providing fun and important OPERATIONS STAFF to get outside. Mental health, especially now, is at is all- programs and events, in addition to our amazing trails, Craig Norman time importance. The NSAA’s mission is just that. Engage for our community. And we continue to plan for a safe Bill Brion Jack Cummins families to unitize the outdoors through access to trails, season, with mitigation, health experts and social distanc- Annette Brion programs and events. ing practices. Biathlon and Jumping were able to resume Matthew Pauli Peter Zug It has been seven months since the world changed and this summer and Junior Nordic, racing, social events and Tyler Norman members have changed their lifestyles, living amongst community time will still happen. The events may look a TRAILS the world’s pandemic of COVID 19. We are making adjust- little different, but we feel strongly that we can deliver our Mike Miller ments, adding care and incredible mitigation actions, and programs while keeping volunteers, spectators, partici- COMMITTEE CHAIRS using State of Alaska and CDC guidelines for direction. pants and the community safe. Please stay tuned as we Access the trails and you will find our Operations take month to month to make this happen for you. ALASKA SKI FOR WOMEN crews working hard in the summer and winter to main- Join us as a member – your support matters and fuels Molly Mylius tain and sustain our trails. That work will receive a big our mission and our community’s trails! Als, join us in cel- AMH ANCHORAGE CUP boost this season as NSAA is adding a new Piston Bully ebrating health and wellness! And join us, because being Branden Fontana to our fleet. This will allow us efficiency and help us stay part of NSAA is being part of the most amazing commu- BACKCOUNTRY TOURS ahead of grooming demands as we care for the Munici- nity. Mary Vavrik
BESH CUPS RACE DIRECTOR Anson Moxness Blazer before October 25, you’ll also AMH Anchorage Cup Freestyle — December AROUND receive a bag of NSAA Meister/Blazer 13 BIATHLON Joey Caterinichio, interim Tea from Summit Tea & Spice to toast Besh Cup in Anchorage — December 19-20 THE BOWL AMH Anchorage Cup Hicock — January 10 with during the NSAA Season Kickoff HIGH SCHOOL RACING AMH Anchorage Cup Classic — January 24 Party on Nov. 1! Renew or join today Anson Moxness Alaska Ski for Women — February 7 at anchoragenordicski.com/mem- AMH Anchorage Cup Sprint — February 14 JUNIOR NORDIC Shannon Donley bership. AMH Anchorage Cup Sven — February 21 Ski 4 Kids — TBD MIDDLE SCHOOL RACING Save the dates: NSAA’s Diane Moxness season of events, programs ASAA State Championships — February 25-27 Last day of Junior Nordic — March 6 We’re not sure what this season RACE CHAIRMAN Tour of Anchorage — March 7 Tim Stone will look like, but NSAA and its staff, Backcountry Tours — anchoragenordicski.com/ board and volunteers are going to do programs/backcountry-tours/ SCHOLARSHIPS Support your trails and Dan Rosenberg our best to host as many of our regu- Biathlon Race Series — anchoragenordicski. become a member today! com/biathlon/ lar programs/events for everyone to SKAN 24 Leaves are falling and the tem- enjoy while keeping safety in mind. At Geoff and Cathy Wright peratures are dropping – that means NSAA’s 2020-21 Season the very least, we encourage everyone it is time to renew your membership Program & Event Directors SKI 4 KIDS to get on the trails and enjoy the snow Erin Whitney Witmer with the Nordic Skiing Association NSAA is a volunteer-built organiza- when it comes. Here are some tenta- of Anchorage! For most, this year’s tion that offers a multitude of pro- SKI JUMPING tive dates for the season: Karen Compton and Vivienne Murray grams, events and races throughout membership is going to mean sup- NSAA Season Kickoff — November 1 porting the many kilometers of Junior Nordic Starts — December 2 the year. Without the efforts of the SKI TRAIN Travis Taylor groomed trails more than ever at Kin- Solstice Tree Tour — December 13 See AROUND THE BOWL, Page 3 caid, Service/Hillside, Bartlett, Beach SOLSTICE TREE TOUR Lake, and many middle/elementary Sara Miller schools. With COVID wreaking havoc TOUR OF ANCHORAGE on most of our routines, this frees up Matias Saari time to hit the trails more than usual NSAA OFFICE HOURS and as always, NSAA will be aiming 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday to provide the very best grooming. BOARD MEETINGS The membership season runs from Fourth Thursday of the month, Oct. 1-Sept. 30 and the basic Trail 6:15 P.M. at BP Energy Center or NSAA office. Open to all. Membership starts at only $35. NSAA relies on generous support from trail users like you for year-round trail maintenance! NSAA Trail Meisters and Blazers will receive a free copy of the NSAA Season Calendar this year, complete with photos from the NSAA Photo Contest! If you renew as a Meister or
the Alaska nordic skier October 2020 ANCHORAGE 3
nordicthe Alaska skier
EDITOR Josh Niva [email protected]
LAYOUT Kevin Powell [email protected]
AD REPRESENTATIVE Michele Hansen [email protected]
LOCAL EDITORS
ANCHORAGE Josh Niva [email protected]
EAGLE RIVER Barbara Johnson PistenBully 400 [email protected] College of Business and Public Policy. Their involvement AROUND THE BOWL FAIRBANKS Continued from Page 2 in Ski 4 Kids was to fulfill a project as part of the commu- Eric Troyer dedicated operations volunteers, race directors, event co- nity service component of their program. [email protected] ordinators and program leads, NSAA would not be capable Nikki recalled, “Our mission was to introduce under- KACHEMAK of managing the volume of activities it currently offers to served Alaska children to the joys of outdoor activities and Mike Gracz the community. The 2020-21 season calendar is packed exercise through a physically and mentally engaging out- [email protected] with fun events and skill building programs for all to enjoy. door event. When we came across the idea of teaming up Thank you to the generous and dedicated group of indi- with Ski 4 Kids we immediately recognized that it aligned JUNEAU viduals who coordinate our favorite ski activities. with our mission.” Not only did it fulfill their mission, but Frankie Pillifant they also agreed their favorite part was getting to see the [email protected] Sweet news for skiers who love result of their hard work when all the Title 1 buses arrived MAT-SU sweet groom: NSAA adds at Kincaid and the kids having a wonderful day skiing and Ed Strabel new PistenBully to grooming fleet participating in the event. [email protected] A new PistenBully 400 is coming to NSAA! Thanks Thank you Nikki, Jenny and Valerie for participating to the generosity of our members and donors, as well in 2020 Ski 4 Kids. Your project consisted of coordinat- SALCHA as sound financial management over the years, NSAA ing for 2020, but also writing a manual for the upcoming Jim Ostlind was able to purchase a brand new shiny red PistenBully, years which future coordinators will find beyond helpful. [email protected] customized for our world-class system of trails. Our cur- Congratulations to Erin Witmer and her committee for an- SEWARD rent grooming equipment is aging and we are excited other successful event year! The 2020 Ski 4 Kids commit- Julie Robinson to strengthen our fleet with this new, dependable and tee: Shannon Donovan, Darcy Dugan, Beth Elliot, Agneta [email protected] efficient machine. We’re excited to spend less time main- Kupilik, Cathy Miller, Tom Miller, Iain Miller, and Matias SOLDOTNA taining equipment and more time grooming! More details Saari, Lia Slemons, Jean Thornley, and Allene Whitney. Penny McClain to come! Cozy cabin experience in your future? 262-6257 NSAA Season Kickoff - Have you spent a night in NSAA’s cozy Hope cabin or TALKEETNA Coming to you virtually the rustic Wetzel Cabin on Nancy Lake? We are happy to Chris Mannix We are going virtual! Join us for the annual celebration offer cabin rentals as a special perk to our members! The 733-2427 on November 1 to kick off the start of the ski season by Hope Cabin is a car-accessible getaway in the charming tuning into our NSAA Season Kickoff Party via Zoom. In town of Hope, and a great destination for anyone look- The Alaska Nordic Skier is a typical fashion, the party will be held on a Sunday after- ing for a weekend adventure. The Wetzel Cabin is a short publication representing the nordic noon and everyone is invited. Grab an afternoon beverage paddle or ski from Nancy Lakes Parkway. Nordic skat- ski clubs of Anchorage, Eagle River, Fairbanks, Homer, Juneau, and a snack, then tune in for a virtual Vendor Fair, NSAA ers take note, it is a great jumping off point for skating at Mat-Su, Salcha, Seward, Soldotna, Program & Event updates, NSAA Board of Directors Nancy Lakes. The NSAA Cabins are open for rental year- Kenai, Talkeetna and Valdez. The annual meeting, and more! The 2019-20 Photo Contest round; reservations can be made at: anchoragenordicski. Alaska Nordic Skier is published winners will be announced during the meeting, so stay com/cabin-rental/. October through April by the tuned to see those amazing photos. Board elections will Nordic Skiing Association take place: if you are interested in becoming an NSAA of Anchorage, Inc. board member, please submit a letter of interest to the All rights reserved. © 2020 NSAA BOD nominating committee at president@anchor- Articles, letters and advertisements agenordicski.com. A full agenda of the annual meeting are welcome. Please ensure all will be posted on the NSAA website during October. “See” names are correct and information is you there! www.anchoragenordicski.com/events/annual- accurate. Submissions may be edited celebration/. for clarity, content and space limitations. Deadline is the 15th day Volunteers of the Month: of the prior month. E-mail College Credit for a Cause [email protected]. There’s nothing better than welcoming new volunteers On the cover: There is no offseason into our Nordic skiing community, especially if they are for motivated young skiers like, from also getting school credit for it! Three very organized and left, Haley Harmon, Jillian Gavalya, energetic ladies joined the Ski 4 Kids committee in 2020 to Zoee Beiergrohslein and Patricia coordinate with Title 1 Elementary Schools, the end result Casey, who spent this recent training being 195 skiers from 9 schools coming to the event. Nikki session rolling in Eagle River Valley. Holmes, Jenny McConnel and Valerie Westdahl hailed PHOTO COURTESY ALASKA NORDIC RACING from the Tom Case Leadership Fellows program in UAA’s
the Alaska nordic skier 4 ANCHORAGE October 2020 As more people play outside, NSAA Operations crew keeps trails tip-top year-round BY NSAA OPERATIONS new snow machines with hitches and 2020 hasn’t been what we thought wiring and repaired some of their old it was going to be. But for Alaskans grooming equipment, and we’re still it may be safe to say that we enjoyed working on refurbishing the dump this summer more than we thought trailer that we use for hauling snow to we could. Thousands of us ventured the tunnels, among other things. near and far on foot, on bikes, in We’d like to thank all the volunteers boats, cars and RVs to escape the who came out to help on the trails weirdness that has defined this year. with the mowing, brush control and The abundant combination of sun- snow making tech support. Your shine and rain made this a summer of knowledge, expertise, and willingness real growth, too. Flowers, lawns and to work is greatly appreciated. vegetable gardens flourished … as did Last spring when the gyms closed, the grass, weeds and brush in the for- people turned to the trails for their ests and on the ski trails. The NSAA daily workout, and they’re still coming Operations Crew devoted a great now more than ever. We’re working portion of this summer to mowing hard to nurture and preserve your the grass and weeds and trimming, transitions are more abrupt and While all the snow cats had their trails for year-round use and despite cutting and chipping brush back from sight distances are less than a Type routine summer maintenance, the all the weirdness, we hope you’ve the edges of the trails. It was dirty 1 trail. Summer use is high and the PB 600 received some serious atten- been able to get out and enjoy all this and buggy work, but these tasks are steep grades present erosion/wear tion on the hydraulic controls and is summer had to offer. We’re looking critical to help create, maintain and problems. (Example: Lekisch Trail now ready for action. We did some forward to Winter 2020-2021 … while sustain the trails for year-round use. at Kincaid).” See the photos of the work for our friends at the Bureau of keeping our fingers crossed! Our crew spent about a week on Moose Hill Trail project. Land Management and modified their Moose Hill at Kincaid Park restor- We also took a quick road trip to ing the trail surface back to a Type Fairbanks to pick up some “gently 2, Level 2 ski trail. The NSAA Main- used” equipment NSAA purchased tenance Plan for Soft Surface Trails through the Government Surplus calls for restoring these soft surface program. The newest addition to the trails on an ongoing basis and cycles equipment yard is a Chevy Bucket each trail on a 10-15 year plan, or as Truck which is proving to be quite needed. The plan defines a Type 2, useful to do lance head maintenance Level 2 ski trail as “a well-used trail and upgrades on the Snowmaking but at a lower volume of use than a Loop. Speaking of snowmaking, the Type 1 trail because of a higher level Pump Conex will be upgraded with of difficulty. The trail is often not a brand-new flow meter before the lighted, typical width is 18 feet and season starts. generally follows the existing terrain. This summer also allowed us to Grades may be up to 15-20 percent, catch up on a lot of equipment repairs.
Advertise here and your business can reach skiers across the state. [email protected]
the Alaska nordic skier October 2020 ANCHORAGE 5 Great Scott! Passionate former NSAA president receives fitting trail tribute
A group of close friends and NSAA mem- bers recently gathered in a corner of Kincaid Park to celebrate the life, tireless energy of former president, volunteer and recreation- alist Jeff Scott, and unveil a memorial post in his honor. Jeff had an infectious passion for life and love of the great outdoors that touched everyone he met, and greatly im- proved recreational opportunities for many he never met. We lost Jeff just over three years ago, on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017. Jeff loved numerous outdoor activities, especially mountain biking, snow biking, cross-country skiing, scuba diving, hiking and backpacking. It wasn’t enough to just do these things; Jeff contributed to them. He served as president of the NSAA for 10 years. He also assisted Singletrack Advocates in building mountain bike trails and worked to bring both groups together, improving trails for all us- ers. We celebrate the legacy of Jeff Scott and dedicate this beautiful memorial in his honor. When you pass by the corner of Dark Alley, just North of the Biathlon tunnel at Kincaid, remember Jeff. Remember his passion for this community, for our trails and for the people PHOTO BY SARA KAMAHELE he made connections with At a recent ceremony, Beth Scott unveiled a special Kincaid Park trail marker dedicated to her deceased husband Jeff Scott, an along the way. Cheers Jeff! PHOTO BY JOSH NIVA outdoor enthusiast, tireless volunteer and trails advocate.
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the Alaska nordic skier ANCHORAGE 6 October 2020 Super summer for NSAA ski jumping family BY ZAK HAMMILL NSAA Ski Jump Program Director/ Coach This summer NSAA’s Ski Jump- ing program athletes and coaches were unable to travel out of state for ski jumping competitions such as Springer Tournee in Park City, Utah, or Jumpin’ & Jammin’ in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. We were also un- able to host the rest of the country for our ever so popular Summer Solstice Jump-A-Thon. In May, it seemed as if we had a bleak summer ski jumping session ahead of us. As we neared our first day of jump practice back in June, I nervously checked our registration list to see how many kids had signed up. We had all of our COVID protocols in place and felt like we had a great oppor- tunity to get kids outside safely, but we still had no idea how the summer would go. To my surprise we already had 30 kids signed up! The first day of practice was filled with so much importantly everyone was having fun. answer to be that we are not just a ing for them, from the parents to the energy. Everyone understood the Team camaraderie was at an unex- ski jumping team, but a ski jumping kids up on the 65, is so special. Events protocols and the importance of why cepted all-time high. family. Everyone out there on any like this is why I am so proud to be a we had them in place. As summer past and fall has now given day is there for all of us. Big or part of the Alaska ski jumping team As the weeks past throughout the set in, I could not help but to reflect small everyone matters in our jump- and family. summer my nerves calmed down. on an unexpected incredible sum- ing family. Join in the fun and learn more Summer jumping was going on with- mer jump session we had. It made me Watching a new jumper go off the about NSAA’s Jumping program at out a hitch. Kids were making huge wonder what makes our ski jump- 20-meter ski jump for the first time anchoragenordicski.com/ski-jump- improvements on the jumps and most ing program so special? I found that and having everyone out there cheer- ing/. Signature: Signature: Selectthe following: □ □ □ Address Spouse/Partner: Spouse/Partner: Email: Email: Name Paper PinTrail Decal : ______Newsletter Newsletter ______:______HowMany? ____ ( o ay __( How Many? ______Trail Member Trail User Trail Blazer Trail Meister Card______#: Exp. Date: ______ 2 Tax ID # 23 Additional donation: ( 0 default is email version ______Total Enclosed:Total $______Make checks payable to NSAA. We accept Visa, MC, Discover, AMEX Discover, MC, Visa, accept NSAA. We to checks payable Make See Reverse for Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk Assumption of Liability, of Waiver and Release for Reverse See 2
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the Alaska nordic skier ANCHORAGE October 2020 7 Remembering, honoring Liam Hood by capturing and sharing special outdoor moments BY JULIE HOOD many talents and his eye for seeing the In June 2019 our son, Liam Hood, beauty in the world was one of many submitted a number of photos to the that endures through his photography. NSAA photo contest. He began an ear- He did a project for school in sixth nest interest in photography when he grade that involved him taking pic- was around 10 years old. It continued tures every day for 100 consecutive to grow and he was becoming a pretty days. He was also such a naturalist PHOTO BY JULIE HOOD impressive photographer, especially at heart and this is very evident in for a 12-year-old. One of his photos was his photos. He began the project in career and raising children. I renewed head of the 20 Mile River, we skied in a winner in one of the categories and mid-October and continued through my interest in it again and enjoyed the Front Range. And as we skied, we a number of his photos appear in last the end of January. Russell and I learning how to become a better pho- took pictures, we thought of Liam, and year’s calendar, as well as on the cover decided to do the same thing last tographer over the past year. we leaned on each other and our Nor- of one of the issues of the Alaska Nor- year. It helped get us out of the house Both Natalie and her brother, Liam, dic skiing friends. One day at a time. dic Skier newsletter this past season. every day. It forced us to try to see the have skied since they could walk. We When the photo contest rolled Liam died in August 2019 in an world through Liam’s eyes during a have always spent time skiing together around this season, Natalie worked to accident. Our family has been devas- time of year that can seem bleak and as a family. The kids both did Jr. Nor- select photos from the many we had tated by the loss of our beloved son dark. It connected us to him and gave dic until they were old enough to move taken over the past winter and submit- and brother. It has been incredibly us a whole new appreciation for his on with skiing with their APU club ted them for us. We know Liam would challenging putting one foot in front perseverance and the challenge of his team. Natalie skis with APU, for West have. Our photos represent those of the other and figuring out how to project. Russell has long been an avid High School, and participated at Ju- journeys on our trails, those races that keep living without his joy, curiosity, photographer. It was a hobby of mine nior Nationals this past year. Russell give us a goal and purpose at times and enthusiasm in our lives. He had so years ago that fell by the wayside with and I have been members of NSAA for when motivation can be so difficult, over 20 years and the Nordic commu- those friendships that keep us going, nity is an enormous part of our family’s and the beauty that surrounds us life. Those friendships have kept all of every day. us supported during this most difficult As we move into winter, may we all challenge of our lives. continue to get outside and enjoy the Getting outside daily and exercis- amazing setting we live in, connect ing has been critical for our mental with each other safely, and support our health. We returned from Jr. Nation- Nordic community and the trails we als at spring break to an even further often take so for granted. For those of unsettling time. So we skied and skied you who knew Liam, keep his smile and skied. If there was nothing else and spirit in your heart as you take good about the day, at least the skiing time to stop and admire something was a bright point. We skied the trails that catches your eye outside. in town, we made numerous trips to Hatcher Pass, we skied Arctic to Indian, we skied to the glacier at the PHOTO BY RUSSELL HOOD
STATEWIDE Advice for using trails during the Covid-19 pandemic COMPILED BY ERIC TROYER off the trail,” Zink said. The following was excerpted from a recent She also keeps a mask around for crowded trail- Anchorage Daily News article titled: Alaska corona- heads and wears one if she goes blueberry picking virus Q&A: How are people here getting COVID-19? by a trail where others might show up. And what’s the deal with testing numbers? The ADN offers COVID-19 articles free, without a sub- scription. To see the rest of the article, go to https:// tinyurl.com/y3psvuvs. How do you safely navigate Alaska’s trails in the midst of a pandemic? The state’s epidemiologist, Dr. Joe McLaughlin, uses Anchorage’s trail system, he said during a recent public video call. Navigating the outdoors HAVE A SKICATION IN THE comes down to personal choice, he said. If someone MAT-SU VALLEY! tests positive for COVID-19, anyone who was within 6 feet of them for more than fifteen minutes is G R O O M E D S K I T R A I L S J U S T M I N U T E S deemed a close contact, which means walking past F R O M Y O U R L O G C A B I N ! someone on the trail doesn’t fit that category. “Now, certainly, if the person is breathing hard G O V E R N M E N T P E A K R E C A R E A and were to cough right on you, like give you a di- A R C H A N G E L R O A D rect face shot of a cough, you might get exposed to he said they should take more precautions. I N D E P E N D E N C E M I N E COVID if they’re infected,” McLaughlin said. Similarly, the state’s chief medical officer, Dr. M O O S E R A N G E When he’s out hiking, McLaughlin said, he’ll Anne Zink, said her kids use the “grumpy dog step off the trail, turn his head or will even hold his theory,” meaning to stay away from people the way breath if he starts to get too close to someone. you’d keep a grumpy dog away from people along V I S I T U S A T H P C A B I N S . C O M But, if someone is at a higher risk for COVID-19, trails. They often “dive into the woods and go 6 feet O R C A L L 9 0 7 - 7 4 5 - 6 7 8 8
the Alaska nordic skier 8 STATEWIDE October 2020 Alaska skiers continue ascent into national spotlight during busy offseason Alaska’s Schumacher shares Beck International Athlete of the Year honor with alpine icon Shiffrin BY U .S SKI & SNOWBOARD The Beck International Trophy is the highest athlete honor from U.S. Ski & Snowboard, recognizing the top athletes in international competition for the year. It’s also the organiza- tion’s oldest, dating back to 1931. The 68 recipients over nearly a century PHOTO BY JIM JAGER Gus Schumacher, shown here racing in the 2019 U.S. Ski & represent a remarkable cross section Snowboard Cross Country Junior National Championships at PHOTO BY MICHAEL DINNEEN of the greatest U.S. Olympic ski and Kincaid Park, had a special off-season away from the snow: Kendall Kramer (Fairbanks XC/Alaska), center, was the top snowboard champions of all time. he was named the prestigious Beck International Athlete of U18 female skier at the 2019 U.S. Ski & Snowboard Cross Country Junior National Championships at Kincaid Park. This For only the second time in history, the Year and nominated for the Davis U.S. Cross Country Ski Team. summer, she was nominated to the Davis U.S. Cross Country two athletes tied for the penultimate Ski Team. honor – Mikaela Shiffrin, whose World Cup tally is now at 66, and cross- Ski Team nominations for the 2020-21 the stability and quality of our devel- country junior world champion Gus season. Nominations include those opment preparation projects, and the Schumacher, of Anchorage. active athletes who qualified based dedication and knowledge of our club Beck International Trophy on published selection criteria in the and school coaching partners have Alpine Athlete of the Year prior season. been instrumental in helping these Mikaela Shiffrin “The 2021 U.S. Cross Country athletes succeed internationally. (Edwards, Colo./Ski & Snowboard Club Team has more depth than any team “The big steps forward over the Vail) in modern American cross-country last two decades have happened via The 2019-20 story of Mikaela Shif- ski racing history!” said Chris Gro- community collaboration and pulling frin (Edwards, Colo./Ski & Snowboard ver, Davis U.S. Cross Country Team in the same direction,” he continued. Club Vail) was told less in her six Program Director. “Together, we’ve created a truly World Cup wins and 13 podiums, and PHOTO BY U.S. SKI & SNOWBOARD “From our seasoned veterans American solution that meets the more in how she fought through pro- Olympian and Alaska-based skier who will be focused on bringing needs of our culture and our geogra- fessional and personal challenges that Sadie Maubet Bjornsen will continue her time on the U.S. National team this home hardware from the 2021 FIS phy.” tested her at every turn. Shiffrin was season. She is among nine Alaskans/ World Championships in Oberstdorf, Each athlete accepting the nomi- honored with the Beck International Alaska-based skiers nominated to the Davis U.S. Cross Country Ski Team this Germany, to the members of the nation to U.S. Ski Team receives Trophy as overall athlete of the year, summer. Development Team, who can nearly world-class program support, along along with the comparable award in At just 19, Alaskan Gus Schumach- all boast having at least one World with access to the U.S. Ski and Snow- alpine. er (Anchorage/Alaska Winter Stars) Junior Championships medal, this board Center of Excellence, as well It was a season of highs, including is rewriting the cross-country skiing team offers so many ways to win,” he as athletic benefits including an elite a late January weekend in Bansko, history book in America! He becomes added. “Athletes in this group have coaching, sport science, sports medi- Bulgaria where she won two speed the first junior skier to win the Beck systematically broken down every cine, and high-performance staff, and events and amassed 250 World Cup International Trophy since cross barrier in cross country performance education opportunities. points in front of her parents, to the country skier Bill Koch won in 1975. that traditionally blocked American An official Davis U.S. Cross Coun- deepest of lows with the death of her At the Junior World Championships, athletes, including World Junior gold, try Ski Team announcement will be father a week later. While the entire Schumacher took the first individual to World Championships gold, to made in the fall. World Cup family grieved with her, gold by an American junior in the 10k Olympic gold.” she fought back courageously to 2020-21 Cross Country classic. To top it off, he anchored the The 2020-21 team is highlighted by return to the tour a month later, only Nominations USA men to their second straight an experienced group of World Cup, to have the season end prematurely a (Hometown; Club; Birthdate) relay gold and third straight medal World Championship, and Olympic A TEAM day before her return. It is the fourth performance in the team event. A Winter Games athletes, including Women — Sadie Maubet Bjornsen (Winthrop, Wash.; Alaska time Shiffrin has won the Beck Inter- Pacific University Nordic Center; 11/21/89); Rosie Brennan product of the Alaska Winter Stars Olympic gold medalist, Jessie Dig- (Anchorage, Alaska; Alaska Pacific University Nordic Center; national Trophy, and the fifth time she 12/21/88); Sophie Caldwell (Peru, Vt.; Stratton Mountain program, Schumacher has been a gins, and 2020 FIS Junior World has won Alpine Athlete of the Year. School Elite Team; 3/22/90); Jessie Diggins (Afton, Minn.; catalyst on a junior team that has Championship double-gold medalist Stratton Mountain School Elite Team; 8/26/91); Julia Kern “Wow. I am so humbled,” said Shif- (Waltham, Mass.; Stratton Mountain School Elite Team; been winning Junior Worlds medals Gus Schumacher. frin. “It’s an incredible honor to share 9/12/97); Hailey Swirbul (Aspen, Colo.; Alaska Pacific over a three-year span. The 2020-21 team also includes the University Nordic Center; 7/10/98) the award with three-time World Men — Simi Hamilton (Aspen, Colo.; Stratton Mountain “Wow, I didn’t know how big it was largest D Team squad ever nominat- Junior Champion cross country skier School Elite Team; 5/14/87) until I realized Mikaela was the other ed with 11 athletes, including mem- B TEAM Gus Schumacher. It’s super impres- recipient. After that call, I realized bers of the gold-medal-winning 2019 Women — Katharine Ogden (Landgrove, Vt.; Stratton sive to see a junior athlete receive this Mountain School/Dartmouth College; 11/17/97) it was a super big deal. It was cool and 2020 FIS Junior World Ski Cham- prestigious award, and I’m looking Men — Kevin Bolger (Minocqua, Wisc.; Sun Valley Ski because she’s just a regular person - pionships men’s relay team: Luke Jag- Education Foundation; 4/11/93); Scott Patterson forward to following Gus’ success (Anchorage, Alaska; Alaska Pacific University Nordic Center; she was so nice and seemed genuinely er, Ben Ogden, and Johnny Hagenbu- throughout his career with the U.S. 1/28/92); Gus Schumacher (Anchorage, Alaska; Alaska interested in my skiing. I’m honored ch. The D Team also includes all four Winter Stars; 7/25/00); Logan Hanneman (Anchorage, Ski & Snowboard Team. I’d also want Alaska; Alaska Pacific University Nordic Center; 6/2/93) to be sharing the Beck Award with members of the silver-medal winning to thank my team and teammates, DEVELOPMENT TEAM her.” FIS Junior World Ski Championships Women — Hannah Halvorsen (Truckee, Calif.; Alaska U.S. Ski & Snowboard, and the ski Pacific University Nordic Center; 2/19/98); Novie women’s relay team: Kendall Kramer, community as a whole for your out- McCabe (Winthrop, Wash.; MVNT; 12/15/01); Kendall Twenty Three athletes, Sydney Palmer-Leger, Novie McCabe Kramer (Fairbanks, Alaska; NSCF-FXC; 6/25/02); Sydney pouring of love and support through Palmer-Leger (Park City, Utah; Sun Valley Ski Ski Education including nine Alaska- and Sophia Laukli. what has been an unimaginable time Foundation; 2/4/2002); Sophia Laukli (Yarmouth, Maine; based skiers, nominated to “The strength of the 20- 2021 U.S. Middlebury College Ski Team; 6/8/00) in my life. Your words and thoughts Men — Johnny Hagenbuch (Ketchum, Idaho; Sun Valley Ski 2020-21 Davis U .S . Cross Cross Country Team speaks to the lifted me up when I needed it most.” Education Foundation; 10/1/2001); Luke Jager (Anchorage, Country Ski Team commitment and professionalism of Alaska; APU/University of Utah; 1/17/00); Noel Keeffe (Steamboat Springs, Colo.; SSWSC/University of Utah; Beck International Trophy BY TOM HORROCKS the community that has helped these U.S SKI & SNOWBOARD 8/24/99); Ben Ogden (Landgrove, Vt.; Stratton Mountain Cross Country Athlete of the Year athletes achieve excellence,” Chris School/University of Vermont; 2/13/00); JC Schoonmaker Gus Schumacher U.S. Ski & Snowboard has an- (Tahoe City, Calif; Auburn Ski Club; 8/12/00); Hunter (Anchorage/Alaska Winter Stars) said. “Our coaches’ education system, Wonders (Anchorage, Alaska; Alaska Pacific University nounced the Davis U.S. Cross Country Nordic Center; 8/7/98)
the Alaska nordic skier October 2020 9 1150 S. Colony Way, Suite 3 Palmer, Alaska 99645 Mat-Su Ski Club (907) 745-SKIS Palmer, Alaska www.matsuski.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AROUND PRESIDENT Lucas Parker THE VALLEY VICE PRESIDENT Dave Musgrave TREASURER Club, groomers and skiers Jerry Hupp ready for early snow and SECRETARY another great season Lorene Lynn The Mat-Su Ski Club is gearing up BOARD MEMBERS for the 2020-21 ski season in the soon Ed Strabel to be, snow-covered Mat-Su Valley. Mark Strabel Last year it started with several feet Chris Thomsen Lori Berrigan of fresh snow at Independence Mine Terry Slaven on October 5 and it just got better as Chris Gierymski the winter progressed. 224 days of Lori Straub skiing supported by our volunteers Kimberly Del Frate Ailis Vann grooming crew of 26 groomers donat- ing 1322 hours of work and putting over 5400 miles on our fleet of groom- ing vehicles. dependence Mine in early November. As you read this, we have already GPRA stadium – what ski dreams are made of. The Race to the Outhouse (3.5K, but skis like a 5K) is tentatively scheduled prepared the Independence Mine or Tues-Thurs from 5:30-6:30 p.m. day-use parking pass. for Saturday, November 7, but may be trails for grooming and have our and Mon-Wed from 1-2 p.m. for home The Ski Club is planning on having slipped to November 14 if snow is late grooming equipment in place. Are schoolers. Check the website for other an outdoor annual meeting on Sat- in arriving and folks have limited on- your skis waxed and your body ready? important details. urday, October 17, under the lights, snow training opportunities. Because The ski club could always use a few The Government Peak trail system in the stadium area at GPRA. Dress of COVID-19, the race will be individu- more volunteer groomers especially is getting better and better. The cozy warm and wear your mask except al starts for both the skate and classic individuals experienced with oper- (narrow) Flat Top Loop has been when eating or drinking and follow- divisions. The ski club will also be ating heavy equipment that can be expanded, all trails mowed frequently ing good social distancing guidelines. hosting the popular Icicle Double ski trained to operate our Pistenbully 100. over the summer, one culvert was re- Food, drink, music, and more. races on December 26-27, two Besh Junior Nordic signups are in prog- set, and a final volunteer trail clean As usual, the Mat-Su Ski Club will Cup races (January 16-17), and The ress on our website. While COVID-19 up scheduled for October 10 from 10 host the first race of the season at In- Ski for Women February 14. may be a factor, we plan on start- a.m.-2 p.m. (mostly rock removal). ing in early January and continuing Come dressed for the weather. Fami- through the first week in March. The lies and individuals who volunteer for club offers several options: Mon-Wed 8 or more hours can earn a free MSB
Wishing the Nordic ski community across Alaska a safe and successful start to the winter season.
www.kicksledalaska.com Shop online for curbside pickup Email: [email protected] Call/Text: (907) 519-2237 Independence Mine was a winter wonderland, and a cross-country skier’s paradise, 502 W. 58th Ave, Unit J, Anchorage, AK just one year ago, on October 10, 2019. Thankfully the club has a Pistenbully and Hours by appointment only. hardworking groomers to make magic out of all the white stuff.
the Alaska nordic skier 10 October 2020
P.O. Box 770117, Eagle River, Alaska 99577 Club hotline — 689-7660 Eagle River Nordic Ski Club Junior nordic hotline — 689-7661 Eagle River, Alaska cernsc wildapricot. org.
AROUND BOARD MEMBERS PRESIDENT EAGLE RIVER Jason Dennis
Ski season will look VICE PRESIDENT/RACING CHAIR different this year Mike Beiergrohslein Ski racing will look a bit different this winter with the national races be- TREASURER ing cancelled, competition will prob- Bob Stehn ably just occur statewide. Fortunately, the competition in Alaska is stiff, so SECRETARY the races will still benefit high school- Jackie Welge ers trying to build their FIS scores for college. It looks like the Besh Cup JR. NORDIC (races in Fairbanks, Anchorage and Rish Harty, Ryan Caldwell out at GPRA) will be happening and some of the Anchorage Cup Races, Skis waiting to be waxed and used by Chugiak/Eagle River families! MASTERS (ANR) plans have not been finalized for high Katie Rehm school skiing yet. Coaches will be getting together soon to figure out the NEWSLETTER Barbara Johnson best way to safely race. College freshman from Chugiak and Eagle River High School will AT LARGE Jason Gray, Annette Brion, continue to train and race. Adrianna Jesse Bee, Andy Hall, Proffitt will be training at Montana Jim Singleton, and Kati Rehm State in Bozeman along with other Alaskan skiers. Max Beiergrohslein scavenger hunts, virtual races, and a will be competing on the University One of many happy families at last course of the week. Club backcountry of Fairbanks team. Hannah Cryder year’s Ski the Beach for Erin! Everyone is looking forward to skiing again this ski outings will also happen this win- plans to be at Western Colorado year. ter, but dates and locations have yet University. Helen Wilson will be a Adrianna Proffitt left, Helen Wilson, get to be determined. We will be posting sophomore at UAA now that it looks in some roller-ski sprints at Chugiak ter. Plans are underway and everyone High School them on our website and Facebook like they will be keeping the Nordic will need to remain flexible, but those but coaches have discouraged this pages as soon as we get some snow. skiing program. Finally, Heidi Booher on the board are hopeful for a healthy, as the best practice. Carrick said it We are hoping to lead some shorter, is attending the University of New successful season, with the help of a was tough to get everyone to comply family skis along with the traditionally Hampshire as a sophomore. We are respectful community. with the new rules during the first held longer ski outings this winter. so glad that these fine skiers can con- Junior Nordic registrations will two weeks because everyone was so The adult ski lessons will also take tinue to train and race, even during begin soon because we anticipate a excited to see each other and they place this year, beginning in Janu- this pandemic. These kinds of outdoor heightened interest this year, based weren’t used to social distancing or ary. Families who have children that sports are probably more important on the amount of activity on local out- wearing masks. ski with the Junior Nordic Program than ever in these surreal times. door trails. Families are starving for “They were like magnets” Carrick ways to keep their kids engaged and have access to adult ski lessons at a ANR skiers takes said, “and in the beginning we had active. We will need as many parents reduced rate. More information is to pandemic in stride to do a lot of reminding.” Now it has as possible to help with ski coaching come on our ERJNSC Facebook page Alaska Nordic Racing (ANR) has become second nature and everyone so that the numbers in groups remain and website. had to make a few changes to their has gotten used to the new rules. low. The Beach Lake Chalet will not If you have any questions about the programs this year to deal with Apparently, they have all been doing be available for the Junior Nordic upcoming season, you can check our health concerns during the pandemic, a great job because there have been program this season, except for emer- website, Facebook page, or call one of but they are still going strong in Eagle no known cases of the virus within gencies, so participants and their par- the club’s board members. River/Chugiak. Stan Carrick, one of ANR members all summer. Stan ents will need to be bundled up and credits this to their stringent policies Calendar of Events, the longtime coaches for the ANR ready to stay outside the entire time. in the time of COVID team, said that they started up again including temperature checks every Leveled groups will meet with physi- •Ski Waxing Day is scheduled for once Mayor Berkowitz allowed meet- day, kids wearing masks and heeding cal distancing in mind, including dif- noon-3 p.m. September 27. Call if you ing in groups outside in early May. the 10-foot distancing. Coaches are ferent meeting locations for different are interested in helping us wax all of Even though things started up about also keeping track of daily attendance groups. Some will meet outside near our Junior Nordic skis! two weeks later than usual, they so that they can notify everyone if the chalet area, and others will meet • We will not host a ski swap this have had between 36-40 high school someone does test positive for COVID. at Chugiak High School or Birchwood year, and there will be no annual students and 10-12 middle schoolers Attendance has gone way up during ABC Elementary. All of these areas meeting or in-person parent meeting training all summer. The Mat-Su the pandemic with very few absences are adjacent to the ski trails and this for JN. Look for more information on Valley also has a similar number for travel. Most of the athletes have will eliminate large groups. We hope social media. of students training and these two rarely missed days because no to have portable bathrooms outside • All Junior Nordic sign-ups will be groups of athletes meet together to families have been taking long trips for emergency use. There are plans to done online this year. train about once a week. outside. possibly schedule a small group that • We will have a date for handing ANR has had to put in place pro- ANR will continue through October may meet in the day. out skis for the season, but you will tocols to keep everyone safe during until the ski season begins at Chugiak We are developing guidelines for have to sign up and pay online. That the pandemic. Masks must be worn and Eagle River High Schools. families to follow, but everyone will will eliminate the need for a lot of anytime athletes are within 10 feet ER Junior Nordic, adult have to be flexible this year. Even if contact between people. of each other. They have gotten used lessons and more will health concerns and guidelines dic- • This year, Junior Nordic will not to carrying masks with them at all continue this winter … with tate that we’re not able to ski with our begin until January. We hope to ar- times as an essential part of their modifications and flexibility in-person groups, we plan to keep our range a few family social distancing gear, along with water bottles. Some CERNSC plans to do their best to community of Junior Nordic skiers in events once there is adequate snow. started out using buffs as masks, get kids out enjoying skiing this win- their ski boots and on the trails with – Compiled by Barbara Johnson
the Alaska nordic skier October 2020 11
P.O. Box 337 Girdwood, AK 99587 Girdwood Nordic Ski Club skigirdwood org. Girdwood, Alaska
DEB BRIAN BURNETT BRIANA JUSTIN JIM PETER KAREN LOSO BRIAN KARI, BOARD OF ESSEX Vice President, SULLIVAN THOMAS BRAHAM ZUG FVCS Nordic NELS BARBER DIRECTORS President Events Secretary Treasurer Trail Maintenance Grooming Ski Coach Events
the start and finish, and writing their bib number AROUND on their hand. Thanks to COVID, there won’t be an GIRDWOOD awards ceremony, aid stations, or even bibs. Just people out on the trails for the love of being out on Take a break from the chaos with the trails. I like it. I think we plan to have pumpkins fresh air, friendship and fun set on a table for the first finishers. And pickles for BY DEB ESSEX second. GNSC President We have ordered our moose pins for the year – black with a red heart. Black is associated with Welcome back! As I sit here and write this, we power, fear, mystery, strength, elegance, death, just had a 4.1 earthquake to reminds us who’s really aggression, rebellion, and sophistication. Well, that in charge. Aside from the world pandemic, politi- pretty much sums up 2020 so far. Black is beautiful, cal chaos and social unrest, it has been a fantastic and it showcases the red heart. Universal symbol. summer – for some. Humans don’t seem to be very I’m not going to tell you to love your neighbor, but good at showing restraint these days, and I feel maybe you can be a little nicer. We all can. And lucky to be part of a community that respects their while you’re at it, be nice to yourself. Go for a walk, relationship with each other, and the environment. we instinctively look to the mountains the next a bike, a ski, a roll, a one-wheel, or a kick-sled. Uninspired to get on a plane, Alaskans traveled all morning to see the snow accumulation. Our club Unplug. Invite a neighbor. Allow nature to calm around the state reminding ourselves why we live is tidying up the trails, and prepping for winter. your rigidity of thought and maybe feel a little less here. Trail use, bicycle sales, fishing poles, camp- By the time you read this, we will have hosted the dislocated in this unpredictable time. Love your ground reservations … all skyrocketed this spring Girdwood Marathon. Sixty lucky runners (in waves trails club. We love all of you. and summer. The public enjoying access to public and staying 6 feet apart, dammit) will have run The GNSC Board of Directors thanks you for land. Brilliant. And now, the fall colors are the per- the trails in Girdwood that all connect to create your continual support. fect encore to end the show. 26-point-something miles (or 13-ish for the half). In September, after it rains here in Girdwood, I thank them all in advance for wearing masks at
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the Alaska nordic skier 12 October 2020
P.O. Box 44, Homer, Alaska 99603 kachemaknordicskiclub.org Kachemak Nordic Ski Club [email protected] Homer, Alaska
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AROUND Mike Gracz | President Stacey Buckelew | Vice President Cameale Johnson | Secretary THE BAY Richard Burton | Treasurer
BOARD MEMBERS After an epic season and Kenny Daher busy summer, everyone’s Jason Neely Derek Bynagle looking forward to skiing on Charles Barnwell Bob Glen snow again Chessie Sharp | Administrative Assistant BY FRITZ CREEK SKIER Your president has been skiing on COMMITTEES AND EVENTS the Homer Spit trails on his roller- Baycrest Upper Alan Parks skis. He, along with all of you, is look- Baycrest Lower, Eveline State Recreation ing forward to a softer surface! Site, Snowshoe Trails Before the snow has fallen, your Dave Brann KNSC board of directors has been McNeil supergroomer Nicky Szarzi hooking up a Ginzu to a Scandic 900 at the Lookout Mountain Mike Byerly hard at work looking forward to grooming shed. McNeil Canyon School another great season of skiing. Insur- volunteer groomers can get out skiing Nicky Szarzi ance has been purchased, a new ad- sooner, but it also means they can Trail Signs ministrative assistant has been hired, help dig each other out, a frustrating Mike Gracz part of the job description in deep Snow Machine Maintenance and a new Scandic 900 snowmachine Equipment Chairperson is ordered. Despite lost revenues from snow! Moreover, a team working in Bob Glen event cancellations last year, KNSC tandem makes an even nicer trail. Junior Nordic Kathy Sarns managed to set a record for member- After our previous administrative assistant, Chessie Sharp, moved out Kachemak Women’s Nordic ship contributions and see below-av- Jasmine Maurer erage equipment maintenance costs. of state, KNSC searched for a re- Membership, Website Last season, KNSC’s outstanding placement. We had one lined up, but Richard Burton he needed to resign to keep himself Alaska Nordic Skier grooming and equipment mainte- Mike Gracz nance crew kept the machines run- healthy. The board was glad that School Races Coordinator ning and the trails groomed as long Derek Bynagle, a current hardwork- Jan Spurkland ing board member, was interested as the snow lasted, pandemic or not! Backcountry Film Festival Because we on the board use those in the position. Derek already knows Dan Del Missier trails too, we know how important what’s going on and is savvy with so- McNeil supergroomer Andrew Peter Winter Gear & Ski Swap cial media and website management. towing a ginzu behind the Scandic 900. Mike Illg (Homer Community Recreation) they are to winter sanity, especially Groomers at McNeil were able to keep Welcome Derek! Besh Cup Races during these socially distant times. equipment at their houses along the Jan Spurkland Although programs and events may This season, KNSC will groom trail system once COVID restrictions trails to the best of our ability given were in place, keeping cross-contact to Friday Night Lights be similarly reduced this coming a minimum and the trails in awesome Stacey Buckalew the constantly changing environment season, we will groom trails! They are condition! Kachemak Bay Ski for Women mowed and ready! of the COVID pandemic. Events will & Haven House money through the City of Homer to Kris Holdereid/Shelly Laukitis The new Scandic 900 will be used be on hold until conditions improve. help replace funds that were lost due Wine, Cheese & Wooden Ski Tour primarily by the crew at McNeil. Be- The annual meeting in November to cancellation of the Marathon and Mike Gracz cause maintenance costs were so low will not be in-person. Instead, the Sea-to-Ski in March/April, and the Kachemak Bay Marathon Ski last year, we also think we may have board is considering hosting an online Deland Anderson upcoming in-person Annual Meet- enough money to buy that crew an ad- slideshow meeting and auction. Stay Homer Epic 100 ing in November. The money will be ditional Ginzu groomer. These Ginzu tuned. A new program emphasizing Homer Cycling Club used to pay for operating expenses. machines “are what make the trail ski fitness, named Homer Nordic, Sea to Ski Triathlon Although reserves are lower than Derek Bynagle nice” says McNeil trail pioneer Derek will be open to everyone. The Junior they have been, KNSC is in decent Stonorov. Having two machines, like Nordic ski rental program will be of- financial shape thanks to careful the crew at Lookout does, means that fered. Kids must have access to skis! stewardship of the budget due to the two people can work together, which Details about outdoor participation experienced guidance from long-time makes the grooming go faster and in both of these programs are still to Treasurer, Richard Burton. How- getting stuck a little less frustrating. be determined. We have discussed ever, equipment maintenance costs When the Lookout Crew found out various ways we can still have some were anomalously low last year, in that the McNeil Crew groomed the participation outdoors, but still adhere large part due to careful preventa- Wine-n-Cheese tour with their single to public health guidelines to keep tive maintenance overseen by equip- Ginzu, they joked that they would everyone safe. Check the Facebook ment chairman, Bob Glen, and the go on strike until McNeil got a sec- page and website for updates. incredible professional-level volunteer ond Ginzu! Faster grooming means KNSC has applied for COVID relief service provided to the club by Bill Hague. Despite their hard work and planning, and the best efforts of the whole crew, equipment breaks down. With a new snowmachine this year, a purchase that had been deferred after a couple of years of high maintenance Derek Bynagle enjoying the snow. costs, KNSC should keep on track, healthy winter outdoor recreation but one or two big breakdowns could provides is a necessity! Membership really pinch our resources. dollars are the largest source of fund- The board of KNSC recognizes ing KNSC receives. Therefore, if you that some members may be in a more are able, please be as generous as you difficult financial situation than they can this year recognizing that others are used to. We will always keep our may not be as fortunate! trails open to everyone; the outlet that Homer Middle School champ Bryce C. at Lookout.
the Alaska nordic skier October 2020 13
P.O. Box 80111, Fairbanks, AK 99708-0111 Competition Office — 907-474-4242 Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks Competition Fax — 907-474-2073 Racing Hotline — 907-457-4434 Fairbanks, Alaska nscfairbanks.org SKIING UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS Who’s Who in the Nordic Ski Club AROUND THE of Fairbanks
JUNIOR NORDIC HOTLINE INTERIOR 457-4437 Skiers may notice PRESIDENT Chris Puchner planned changes [email protected]
at Denali National Park VICE PRESIDENT Some changes are planned for Steven Hansen the shoulder and winter seasons at [email protected] Denali National Park. Under the new S E C R E T A R Y/ TREASURER plan, these are some visitor services Ann Jamieson changes that will affect skiers. [email protected] • Installation of a seasonal foot- AT-LARGE MEMBERS bridge near Mountain Vista to fa- Eric Buetow Peter Delamere cilitate access to traditional winter Helena Rueter routes. Davya Flaharty • Create a connector trail for mush- ADULT LESSONS COORDINATOR ing and other winter trail access at Shelly Soderstrom the Mountain Vista rest area. [email protected]
• Groom trails in the park entrance FAIRBANKS JUNIOR NORDICS area and potential trails in the Ne- Shelly Soderstrom and Sally Endestad nana River area. [email protected] For more on other changes at 371-9564 Denali National Park see: https://ti- FAIRBANKS CROSS COUNTRY nyurl.com/y67t8c5d. Nick Crawford Head Coach, Program Director [email protected] Summer work on RACE PROGRAM DIRECTOR Skarland Trail will improve John Estle winter grooming [email protected] Stan Justice, one of the volunteer BIATHLON groomers for the Skarland and Pearl Jim Pasek [email protected] Creek trail system, posted in Face- book in August about work done on TOURING [email protected] the Skarland Trail, a non-motorized PHOTO BY STAN JUSTICE Work done in the summer will help winter grooming. Eric Troyer | [email protected] trail near Pearl Creek Elementary NEWSLETTER EDITOR School. The trail improvements will do to keep the rest of the land public, [email protected] Trail builder featured in Eric Troyer | [email protected] make grooming easier for the group but any new action on that is probably News-Miner of volunteer groomers who maintain some time out. … Thanks for your ac- Jon Underwood, owner of Happy the system. tions, your support, and for just caring Trails, was featured in a recent article “Side hill be gone!” Justice wrote. about the fate of the land.” in the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner. “This is on the Skarland Trail above Find out more about this effort at Underwood’s company has worked on about Happy Trails at happytrailsak. Wolverine Lane. The trail will end https://peedetrails4all.org/. many Fairbanks-area trails familiar com. up 2 feet wide – lower portion is duff to skiers, including Sunnyside, Cliff- roots etc. and will vegetate. Amazed Fairbanks Borough side, Blackhawk, and Chinook trails Northern Area State Parks at how quickly the old trail migrated gets federal grant at Birch Hill Recreation Area. His gets new superintendent downhill until it was up against the to update Trails Plan company has also done work on trails The Northern Area region of trees. The cut bench stops the mi- The Fairbanks North Star Borough in the Chena River State Recreation Alaska state parks has a new face gration. This is the area where the recently received a grant to update Area and in other places across the at its helm. Ian Thomas, longtime snowmachine tipped over due to the its Comprehensive Recreational state. See the article at https://ti- lead ranger for the region, took over sidehill.” Trails Plan. The plan was originally nyurl.com/ybudts5c. Find out more See AROUND THE INTERIOR, Page 14 To find out more about the trail approved in the 1980s and while it system see https://pearlcreeknor- has been amended, it has not been dicpark.wordpress.com/. overhauled since. The borough’s Trails Advisory Commission has Assembly votes to protect been working on updating the plan, some Peede area trails but as a solely volunteer effort, the Cam Webb, organizer of the “Keep progress has been slow. Many of the Peede Trails Public” campaign, sent Fairbanks-area ski trails, groomed out an email in July regarding these and ungroomed, are included in the North Pole-area trails that were in plan. danger of being lost. These motorized The grant is a component of a multi-use trails are popular with area larger grant from the military that trail users both winter and summer. helps the borough update its plan- “Great news!” Webb wrote. “The ning documents. The grant was Borough Assembly just voted unani- awarded due to the planned reloca- mously to rezone the Peede Tract tion of several thousand military (the 166- acre parcel at the heart of personnel and their families to the the Borough’s Brock/Repp land) to Eielson Air Force Base. The person- ‘Outdoor Recreation.’ This should now nel are moving as part of the addition prevent sale and development of this of 55 F-35 fighter jets to the base. parcel. … There’s lots more work to
the Alaska nordic skier FAIRBANKS 14 October 2020 NSCF trail crew spends summer keeping Birch Hill Recreation Area trails in good shape BY ERIC TROYER the work will improve winter grooming efficiency. Most of the trail work done at Birch Hill Recre- All the work has been done with grant money from ation Area this summer was focused on repairs REI and the Rasmuson Foundation. and future damage control.There was some dam- “This has been a challenging summer to do dirt age done by the spring breakup that needed to be work with all the rain,” said Tom Helmers, heada repaired. The trail crew (groomers in winter) also groomer. “Every place we worked turned to mud, rehabilitated some trail sections that have settled which delayed the final grading and seeding for over the years and did some back-sloping and other almost two months.” drainage improvements to reduce future water ero- Work included: sion. In addition to keeping the trails in good shape, Tower loops: The trail crew added a groomer by- pass using one of the existing trail light powerline right-of-ways to minimize cutting trees. The bypass will improve grooming efficiency at the top of the Tower Loop. “When we are grooming South Tower, Old Tower and Tower Direct, we have a hard time turning on or off of South Tower without tearing up the inter- section in low snow conditions,” Helmers said. “The PHOTOS COURTESY TOM HELMERS new bypass will improve the flow of grooming those The NSCF trail crew fenced off Big Surprise Trail while trails in general. It will also save us from doing installing a culvert to divert water. extra loops when we are grooming for events.” North 40: Cutbanks were turned into slopes. crew took material from a cutbank on the nearby This is part of a multi-year project to back slope the White Bear Trail, turning that steep trail edge into taller cutbanks on the whole trail system. The back- a slope. slopes help make brushing along the trail edges Biathlon Way and White Bear: The trail crew in- easier. Fewer cutbanks also means less chance of a stalled three culverts to deal with drainage issues. grooming machine rubbing up against steep banks, Near the start of Biathlon Way two small gullies which can result in dirt and debris on the trails in had formed sinkholes that drained across the trail. the winter. The same thing was happening with the low spot Big Surprise: The trail has been settling over the just past Surprise Cut-off. The culverts should last few years at the corner. The crew installed a reroute water off the trails. culvert and regraded the trail. The repair required A new groomer bypass on the Tower trails will improve Eric Troyer is the Fairbanks editor for the Alaska Nordic Skier. grooming efficiency. the addition of close to 100 yards of material, so the
AROUND THE INTERIOR Birch Hill facilities get Continued from Page 13 this past summer after long-time superintendent Brooks Ludwig retired. improvements over the summer Among other things, the region office oversees the Chena River State Recreation Area, which has many trails popular with skiers. The Fairbanks BY ERIC TROYER bridge to help reduce mud that forms Daily News-Miner profiled Thomas in a recent article (https://tinyurl.com/ Birch Hill Recreation Area has there during non-snow months. y9g5lmtq). been a busy place this summer. While • Warming Hut exterior was refin- the Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks’ trail ished. NSCF Calendar keeps you updated crew was out improving the Birch Hill • The stairs and handrails between Remember to check the NSCF Calendar for upcoming club events. You trails (see related story), others were the Warming Hut and Rikka’s Road- can check competition events, social activities and more. Visit nscfair- doing work on other parts of the rec house were painted. banks.org > calendar for more! You can also “like” the Nordic Ski Club of area. There were several jobs done inside Fairbanks on Facebook to keep up with local events. The Fairbanks North Star Bor- the buildings as well, according to NSCF seeking Junior Nordics coaches ough Parks and Recreation Depart- Mike Simmons, Birch Hill manager. Our youth skiers are in need of your help! We have lots of excited, budding ment has been hard at work. One of However, those will be less noticeable Nordic skiers ready to enjoy this amazing snow and not enough volunteer the most noticeable differences this by the public. What will be noticeable coaches to go around. You do not need experience, just a positive attitude and summer was the new patch of grass are changes to the drive and parking love of skiing. If you are interested, please contact Shelly Soderstrom (junior- installed over barren area in front of lot. Due to a variety of agencies and [email protected]; 907-371-9564. Timing Cabin. funding sources, the unofficial round- “Converting the stadium from a about at the recreation area entrance NSCF seeking Adult Lessons instructors mostly gravel/dirt surface to turf was improved and new surfacing was Want to share your love of skiing with people new to the sport? Help began several years ago,” FNSB Rec- put on the park entrance road. them gain confidence and skills? Share in-depth techniques and training reation Superintendent Steve Taylor A new exit for the far parking lot, strategies? The NSCF Adult Lessons program is looking for instructors and wrote in an email. “Initially the goal built just a couple of years ago, was substitute instructors. was to beautify the area surround- built around the old equipment shed. Instructors need to be NSCF members and need to undergo a back- ing the building to enhance outdoor This will help with traffic flow during ground check. Instructors get paid $45 per hour for group lessons and are weddings. However, that concept has busy events. More traffic direction covered by club insurance for those lessons. Instructors need to be First extended to cover the entire stadium, and wayfinding signs were added to Aid and CPR certified. (The club will provide an opportunity to gain these which can be a mucky mess during help people understand traffic and certifications.) The club also provides instructor training alongside the Jr. breakup or wetter portions of the pedestrian patterns. Jersey barri- Nordics program instructors. For more information and to sign up as an summer. Each summer we have tried ers and vehicle parking stops were instructor, please contact Shelly Soderstrom at adultlessons@nscfairbanks. to add another section of topsoil/ added to the parking lots to help guide org. grass.” parking and reduce undefined edges Other work done in the stadium of the parking lots. Officials also hope Find the Nordic Skiing Association area includes: these will stop vehicles from spinning of Anchorage on Facebook at — • Gravel fill added underneath the donuts in the parking lot, which dam- Birch Hill Cross Country Ski Center ages the surface. facebook.com/anchoragenordicski
the Alaska nordic skier October 2020 FAIRBANKS 15 Work by Interior Land Trust helps save land, ski trails BY ERIC TROYER The Interior Alaska Land Trust has been doing great work recently that will also help save some popular ski trails. The trust is trying to purchase plots of land both in the Goldstream Valley and the Cripple Creek area. Goldstream Valley The trust is trying to purchase a 38-acre parcel along Ballaine Road. This piece of land is critical for connecting green space and trails across the Goldstream Valley. The trust had earlier purchased the 80 acres below it and is now trying to get the third and final piece. Anyone who uses and loves Fairbanks trails and wild areas can help by donat- ing to the trust for this project. Some of the land could be used as a parking area for trails. Parking is limited further up Ballaine Road, so a new park- ing area would help with trail access. In July, the trust announced that more land, in- cluding another important ski trail, was conserved: “We’re excited to have more land conserved thanks to Sara Tabbert and Brandon McGrath-Bernhard! They contacted us about a conservation easement on their southern 40 acres back in 2012 and reached Cripple Creek — The green in this graphic shows the Isberg Recreation Area. The red dotted lines show two of out again early last year about conserving the the main winter trails that cross private property and connect to trails in the rec area. western 25 acres of their property above it. This is legally close them anytime. In the map the green a beautiful parcel, and contains the Eldorado Creek shaded area is Fairbanks borough property, while Trail, which continues south into the Goldstream the properties labeled 1 and 2 are for sale. Public Use Area!” The two properties span the entire valley. They have important ski trails and are critical to direct Cripple Creek area access to the Isberg Recreation Area for many lo- Trails associated with the Isberg Recreation cal residents. Trail access through the valley could Area west of Fairbanks are in danger of being lost be cut off by pending development. The trust is due to development. The trust is making an effort trying to purchase the properties or, if that fails, to to purchase land that would also save the trails. purchase a some of the land. Trails that many assume are part of the Isberg Goldstream parcel — This land the Interior Alaska People can help the trust by joining it or by con- Land Trust is trying to buy contains a winter trail, Rec Area are actually on private property without tacting trust personnel to find out if it is taking do- barely visible in this satellite image, that provides a an easement. The owner has generously allowed critical connection between Goldstream Valley trails nations for specific projects. For more information on either side of Ballaine Road. use of those trails for many years, but he could on the trust see https://interioraklandtrust.org/. Rapid growth proves that Fairbanks Biathlon is right on target BY HILARY SAUCY got the link and the class NSCF Biathlon Program Head Coach is already full!” It was The Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks’ Biathlon Club unbelievable. We had no has seen enormous growth within the past year. idea how much interest From just a handful of retired competitive ath- was out there! letes to a thriving program the journey has been Building upon the one full of excitement and challenge. We now have successful fall program, many new participants and our programs regularly we were ready to offer include a waitlist. a winter program but The growth began last summer when we offered faced a major hurdle. a four-class summer program as an experiment. We did not own enough It was a resounding success with 11 participants. club rifles suitable for There seemed to be interest, so we decided to offer shooting in the cold. We a fall program with a youth introduction class and started asking former an adult class. The classes filled quickly with no ad- members if they would vertisement beyond Facebook and the ski club email lend their rifles. Eventu- PHOTOS BY DARYN ESPINOSA ally we rounded up seven Junior participants in the summer NSCF biathlon program line up to shoot at the lists. I had parents emailing me saying “Hey, I just Birch Hill Recreation Area biathlon range. rifles. We offered two youth programs — beginner and rally designed to easily maintain social distancing, advanced — and an adult class. In order to maxi- so we felt lucky to be able to continue with mostly mize participation numbers, we got creative. To al- business as usual. low 14 athletes to participate in our advanced class We had a total of 21 participants, six of whom we would divide the class in half. One group would were brand new. As of this writing, our fall pro- play ski games while the other would shoot. After grams are getting ready to kick off, and we current- the first class one young participant came to me and ly have 28 participants registered in four different asked, “Is it going to be like this every week?” I re- classes ranging from beginner to adult. All our plied, yes. Her response was an emphatic “Sweet!” I programs are aimed at teaching shooting funda- guess it doesn’t take a lot to make kids happy! mentals and safety with an emphasis on fun! Learn The second half of the winter was cut short by more about the program at nscfairbanks.org/pro- COVID, but as things began to settle down, we were grams/biathlon/. An NSCF summer biathlon participant aims at a target at the Birch Hill Recreation Area biathlon range. able to offer two summer classes. Biathlon is natu-
the Alaska nordic skier STATEWIDE 16 October 2020 Alaskans shine at the Virtual North American Biathlon Summer Nationals The COVID-19 pandemic has shot out of 20 tries. Reine Soule, 11, dampened travel and competitions, also placed first in the U13 girls biath- but U.S. Biathlon and Canadian Biath- lon race. lon made the best of the situation by All the above athletes race for the offering the Virtual North American Anchorage Biathlon Club and are Biathlon Summer Nationals. Biath- coached by Jean Paquet, formerly letes combined a running race with of the Canadian National Biathlon shooting results to compete head-to- Team. Other Alaska racers included head across North America. Noah Goltz, Talia Day, Noah Rehberg Helen Wilson, 19, of Eagle River and Nathan Rehberg. and a U.S. Junior Development Team The virtual biathlon race consisted member, placed first in the women’s of a 3000-meter timed track race (or junior race with only two misses. She 1500 meters for the younger biath- races for Anchorage Biathlon Club, letes) and the “American shooting Alaska Nordic Racing and the Univer- test,” a timed 20-round shoot with 10 sity of Alaska Anchorage. New to the targets in the prone and 10 targets biathlon sport, Matt Novakovich, 45, standing. A 15-second penalty was also placed first in the masters with applied to the 3000-meter race time 14 hits out of 20 and a blistering 3000 for each missed target. Results were meter time of 9:51. Elias Watson, 13, tabulated and compared with biath- placed first in the boys U15 with only letes across North America. PHOTO COURTESY ALASKA BIATHLON CLUB Alaska’s Matt Novakovich, left, and Noah Goltz, along with a furry pace-setter, one miss. Alex Bork, 13, earned third “This gave athletes an opportunity compete in this summer’s Virtual North American Biathlon Summer Nationals. place with only two target misses. to gauge their performance and com- Gemma Rusu placed third in the U15 petition midway through the summer In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, national races are located, by Ameri- race class, hitting 75 percent of her training season,” said Paquet. “Our the International Biathlon Union is can residents is banned. Biathlon is targets and a fast run. Levi Watson, athletes did very well, shooting accu- considering contingency plans for the widely popular in Europe and is the 13, and Gray Melocik, 12, both cleaned rately and demonstrating high aerobic winter race season. Currently travel only Winter Olympics Games sport their targets – not missing a single conditioning.” to Europe, where most of the inter- the USA has not received a medal.
SPONSORED Breathing for 3-4 cycles. This is apnea training. Perform this exercise in a seated position and NEVER perform performance while driving or in water. and recovery Another breath practice, that turns up the parasympathetic resting system, is called box or 4 BY MATT POGGEMILLER, PT, DPT, COMT square breathing. For this one, setting aside time Advanced Physical Therapy in the evening or just before you begin warm-ups can help develop a state of mental calm that can I would like to start by introducing myself: I am be drawn on in other stressful situations (such as Matt Poggemiller stepping in for Collin Atkinson race day). It is called box breathing because it is for Advanced Physical Therapy. In recent editions done in a 1:1:1:1 ratio. When initially starting this of the Alaska Nordic Skier, Collin has discussed practice, breathe in for a count of 4, hold a count injury prevention and recovery. Today, I will be of 4, exhale a count of 4, then hold out a count a discussing breathing. 4, and repeat for 10 cycles. As you become more Breathing is an activity that can be automatic comfortable, you can increase the time for each or voluntary, since it is an essential function for phase. Both exercises should be done with nasal life. Ancient practices such as yoga and various breathing. meditation traditions have used breath for focus- If you have questions regarding injury or per- ing the mind and training the body and recent formance, be sure to begin by consulting one of research has begun to backup the value of these our physical therapists. Rehabilitation following approaches. injury can be stressful and breathing practices Breathwork can be used as a way to access alongside progressive loading exercises can help different physiological states. When we are at speed recovery. Advanced Physical Therapy’s rest, our breathing is slow and usually through skilled clinicians are here to assist the Alaska the nose. When we are at max effort, such as Nordic skiing community during their rehab the sprint at the end of a race, we are breathing Wim Hof journey. heavily through the mouth and the entire body is participating in breathing. We can intentionally hold, training can teach our bodies how to work in a state of higher CO2 concentration. This can Hinterberger, T, et al. The brain’s resonance with create fight or flight or resting states by changing breathing—decelerated breathing synchronizes heart the pace and depth of breathing. be useful when training or racing hard because a rate and slow cortical potentials. J. Breath Res. 2019 For athletes, this can be useful in many ways. CO2 tolerant system more efficiently offloads oxy- Volume 13, number 4 Being able to create a relaxed, calm state with gen into tissues. Being able to manage that physi- long slow breaths can assist the recovery process ological state more efficiently will help dial down by making it easier to rest and sleep. When we those pre-race jitters and improve performance. are in a rested state, we tend to digest food better So, what can daily breath practice look like? As and our bodies are more efficient at the cellular advocated by “The Ice Man,” Wim Hof, start each exchange needed for tissue repair. day with 30-40 full inhales and exhales, oxygenat- ing the blood. After the last inhale, exhale fully Do you want to learn more? Come see us at Advanced Conversely, being able to create a fight or flight Physical Therapy! Call for an appointment at any of our state, activating our sympathetic nervous system, and hold your breath out as long as you can, five locations statewide , or visit us online at: aptak.com can have huge benefits as well. Apnea, or breath then inhale and hold 10-15 seconds. Repeat for
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the Alaska nordic skier