Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage, Inc

M a r c h 2 016 , Vo l .17, N o . 6 Anchorage, Ea gle River, Fa irbanks, Girdwood, Homer, Juneau, Kenai, Mat-Su, Sa lcha, Sewd ar , Soldotna, Ta lkeetna adn Va ldez

PHOTOS BY JAN HAZEN

Anchorage...... 2 ANCHORAGE: STATEWIDE: GIRDWOOD: Eagle River...... 13 Ski for Women – giving Besh Cup champions, No snow down low? Let’s Fairbanks...... 14 back and having fun traveling teams named groom at Turnagain Pass! Girdwood...... 9 Kachemak ...... 10 Mat-Su ...... 12 4 8 9 Statewide ...... 8 2 March 2016

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. anchoragenordicski.com

BOARD MEMBERS

Raves about NSAA’s work, a rant PRESIDENT Jeff Scott VICE PRESIDENT about those who rant, and Sara Miller SECRETARY Elizabeth Arnold TREASURER other musings of a challenging season Karl Garber MEMBERS Kari Skinner Mike Miller Message from the NSAA President / Jeff Scott Josh Niva Joey Caterinichio Dustin Shannon February 7, 2016 – a most beautiful day in Anchorage. • Snowmaking also costs a lot more money than natural The NSAA groomers turned Kincaid Park into a Nordic snow – we have extra expenses in making the snow and OFFICE STAFF Erin Beam, Business Manager skier’s winter wonderland. The Green Grunts worked the moving the snow before our staff even gets to groom it. Tamra Kornfield, Program Manager stadium into a well-organized ski venue, as they always do. • NSAA’s equipment fleet gets works very hard grind- Amber Adams, Office Manager The sun was shining on Denali and on the colorful, cre- ing ice. Teams must push the limits on the Pisten Bullys OPERATIONS STAFF ative and entertaining costumes that many participants to create good trails in bad conditions, which means NSAA Ben Powell, Director of the Ski for Women wore that day. Many thanks to Fiona will need to replace these expensive machines sooner Craig Norman Bill Brion Peichel and the Ski for Women committee for another than anticipated. Tom Ross Peter Zug fantastic job this year. It was a great day for Nordic skiing • Many user groups and individuals do not financially Annette Brion in Anchorage and a great way to raise money for stopping support NSAA grooming costs. This is not a sustainable Matthew Pauli Ricky Prince violence against women. All funds raised support local plan – we cannot have trail users skiing for free anymore. non-profit organizations committed to this cause and • The state budget and economic situation will make COMMITTEE CHAIRS donations are accepted year-round. Congratulations and fundraising more difficult in the future. NSAA has to get ADULT SKI LESSONS thanks to all who were a part of this great event. serious about this now. Raye Ann Neustel For NSAA, every season brings interesting challenges Does NSAA need to consider other Nordic sports, ALASKA SKI FOR WOMEN to overcome and opportunities to grow and develop as an events and programs to help cover the organization’s Fiona Peichel organization. NSAA and many Alaska non-profits have annual costs, and more importantly keep folks active and ANCHORAGE CUP RACING reached the point in which current income does not sup- healthy in the winter? NSAA’s staff and board members Raye Ann Neustel port staff levels and their respective business models. are dedicated to the viability and growth of NSAA. We will Meg and Bob Stehn The Foraker Group has consistently been a resource for continue working together to address these issues. BACKCOUNTRY TOURS NSAA to work through these challenges. Their Febru- Before I go, I want to share one other rant. I can’t Patti Phillips, Mary Vavrik, Karlene Leeper, ary newsletter is interesting reading about how to build understand how anyone could complain about NSAA’s Ken DePalma a sustainable non-profit organization. You can find it at grooming this year. Yes, some people are complaining! BIATHLON forakergroup.org NSAA Operations staff are grinding ice to make snow Co-chairs: Leslie Boughton and Mike Riesler Eagle Eyes Coach: Tom Grenier NSAA’s Operations team has delivered incredible re- and skiable trails, even in these extremely challenging sults through a lot of hard work and sacrifice this season. conditions. Crews of staff and volunteers are creating and HIGH SCHOOL RACING NSAA is, however, challenged with its current business growing snow, when the weather conditions are right. John Christopherson model. Here are some of the hard realities that I see: When I hear complaints, my first thought is that NSAA is HUTS • NSAA is losing many skiers and paying members due not telling our story and educating people about our work. Call NSAA office for reservations to poor snow conditions and limited trails groomed for rec- But some jerks always complain and many don’t even pay JUMPING reational skiers. Two bad winters in a row is not helping to support our club. Karen Compton Vivienne Murray Nordic skiing in Anchorage or our organization. That said, I am always glad to have many good folks Mike Jokela, Coach • Snowmaking has been required for NSAA to hold speak out about how thankful they are to have skiable races and events – and we have held Anchorage School trails and who are grateful for the hard work of NSAA and JUNIOR NORDIC Eric Egeland, Chair District races and AMH races and events. However, again its teams. Thank you to all those who support NSAA and this season, the Tour of Anchorage will be a shortened, have made our club special for more than 50 years, in all LANDS COMMITTEE Gordon Wetzel Kincaid Park event. That hurts our fundraising and mem- skiing conditions. bership numbers. MIDDLE SCHOOL RACING Dave Blanchet

shoeing for the day or part of the day. RACE CHAIRMAN Tim Stone AROUND Didn’t get your Ski Train tickets this year? Not to worry; check in with SCHOLARSHIPS THE BOWL Dan Rosenberg the NSAA office (276-7609) to be put All aboard for fun and on the waitlist. Chances are some- SKI 4 KIDS new features on Ski Train! one’s plans have changed and they’re Alice Knapp The most fun day of winter is com- looking to sell their tickets or their SKI TRAIN Sean Bolender ing soon – Ski Train 2016 on Saturday, whole group’s tickets. And put Octo- March 12. As usual, the skiing and ber 1, 2016, on your calendar – that’s TRAILS partying are expected to be a blast, when 2017 Ski Train tickets go on sale! Mike Miller but there are also new features to this TOUR OF ANCHORAGE SKAN24: The quest for Raye Ann Neustel year’s event that will make the day snow and a long night even more exciting. of skiing NSAA OFFICE HOURS Kaladi Brothers Coffee is providing 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday Despite what it looks like outside its signature blend of coffee for sale now, there’s still time for snow to fall BOARD MEETINGS on the train! No need to go out of your below the 2016 SKAN24 arrives on Fourth Thursday of the month, way to find a shop that’s open early 6:15 P.M. at BP Energy Center March 26-27! Race directors have or NSAA office. Open to all. when you can find the Kaladi car and everything ready to go and they’re get a delicious cup or fill up a Ther- REI will also offer an array of just waiting for more snow. The 2016 mos. Credit, cash or check accepted. snowshoes to demo for free in Curry! SKAN24 will feature the same great Breakfast, snack and lunch options Upon arrival, just look for the REI will also be for sale on the train. tent by the baggage car and try snow- See AROUND THE BOWL, Page 3

the Alkas a nordic skier March 2016 ANCHORAGE 3 AROUND THE BOWL more information. at 9 a.m. at the Chugach State Park Continued from Page 2 MARCH 13, 2016: SOUTH FORK, Headquarters parking lot (at the train the Alaska 24-hour racing atmosphere, multiple EAGLE RIVER south of Potter Marsh). Tour leader: nordic skier courses and breakfast the next morn- Patti Phillips, (907) 240-3742. Ski with views of spectacular Harp ing. EDITOR Mountain and Cantata Peak along the Upcoming events Josh Niva Learn more at anchoragenordicski.com/skan24. South Fork Eagle River trail. We’ll htm. MARCH 2016 [email protected] ski out on the main trail with our final Wednesday, March 2: ASD Middle School destination an overlook with grand Join NSAA backcountry Championship races LAYOUT views of the South Fork valley and tours for adventure TBA: Biathlon State Championships, Fairbanks Kevin Powell Cantata Peak. Please meet at the bak- in our backyards Thursday, March 3: Ski 4 Kids bib pick up, REI [email protected] Learn more about NSAA’s back- ery in Carrs at Muldoon and North- Friday, March 4: The Anchorage Tour Festival bib pick up, NSAA offices country tours at anchoragenordics- ern Lights at 9 a.m. and then convene AD REPRESENTATIVE at the South Fork Chugach State Park Saturday, March 5: Ski 4 Kids, Kincaid Park ki.com/tours.htm. You will find an in- Christina Cober trailhead, off Hiland Road, at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 5: Anchorage Junior Nordic teresting cheat sheet, suggested gear equipment return, Kincaid Park bunker [email protected] Because the weather is often vari- list, and a release form. For those Sunday, March 6: The Anchorage Tour Festival attending any tour they’ve signed up able, bring clothing for wind, cold and Monday, March 7: Anchorage Junior Nordic LOCAL EDITORS for, they will receive a logistics sheet snow. Tour leader: Mary Vavrik, (907) equipment return, Kincaid Park bunker usually the Sunday or Monday before 306-7686. Tuesday, March 8: Anchorage Junior Nordic ANCHORAGE equipment return, Kincaid Park bunker the tour. APRIL 2, 2016: SKOOKUM Josh Niva Saturday, March 12: Ski Train To support the Touring Program, [email protected] GLACIER Sunday, March 13: AMH Anchorage Cup - Phat you can purchase an attractive and This will be a kick-and-glide tour and Freestyle (Fat Tire and Ski Duathlon) EAGLE RIVER specially designed knit cap. They will up to Skookum Glacier. On a sunny Sunday, March 13: NSAA Backcountry Tour Ros Singleton be available at all tours and the NSAA day, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Saturday, March 19: Oosik Ski Race/Tour, [email protected] office. All of our tours are accompa- Talkeetna the glacier and because it’s spring, FAIRBANKS nied by Anchorage Nordic Ski Patrol Thursday, March 24: SKAN24 bib pick up, REI we have to worry about the warmth Eric Troyer members, who provide a measure of Saturday-Sunday, March 26-27: SKAN 24 instead of the cold.Depending on how Race (Ski Kincaid in 24 Hours) [email protected] safety. Many thanks for their assis- far out we go, the ski is flat, but we tance. We look forward to skiing with APRIL 2016 HOMER will need to negotiate some snow- you out on the trail. Marylou Burton bridge crossings. Because the weath- Saturday, April 2: NSAA Backcountry Tour Below are a upcoming tours. Call er is often variable, bring clothing See more upcoming NSAA events at JUNEAU the tours hotline at (907) 248-6667 for wind, cold and snow. We’ll meet anchoragenordicski.com/calendar.htm. Mark Scholten ext. 4 or the respective tour leader for [email protected]

MAT-SU Ed Strabel Grooming ‘The Loop’ and making the most of snowmaking [email protected]

BY NSAA OPERATIONS TEAM We then break the pile open and spread it out as much SALCHA Two groomers walk into a bar … and neither one as possible. These areas are about as rough as you can Jim Ostlind of them ducked. They were too busy looking at the icy imagine as the snow is too sticky to smooth down. If you [email protected] sidewalk thinking, “We could grind that into something come upon one of these “drying areas,” you might have SEWARD skiable!” thought we had a disgruntled employee who walked off the Julie Robinson That’s the difference between a warm winter with very job. Once it dries out though, Ricky or Craig blades it into [email protected] little snow and a cold winter with a lot of snow. In a low- shape and tills it into that familiar, smooth comb. snow winter, groomers spend their time grinding ice to Now that we’re actually making the snow, the grooming SOLDOTNA soften the trails, whereas in a winter with heavy snowfall schedule has been adjusted a bit. Because we are shoot- Penny McClain their efforts turn to working the snow so it hardens into ing all night, a lot of the spreading and grooming takes 262-6257 a firm base. Two very time-consuming endeavors with place during the early morning or during daylight hours. TALKEETNA opposite processes that lead to one ultimate goal – a trail There is usually some Cat work that can be done during Chris Mannix to ski on. the evening, like grooming on a completed SML section 733-2427 This is generally true even when we cheat a little bit or reshaping something that Craig just isn’t quite happy The Alaska Nordic Skier on the Snowmaking Loop (SML) at Kincaid Park. During with (this happens a lot). Since the process takes at least is printed by Alaska Dispatch News the first sustained period of cold weather, we made snow two people (a computer person and a field person), there Commercial Printing for three weeks to cover about 3.5 kilometers of trail. We is generally time for one of them to do some pushing. The Alaska Nordic Skier is a then work that same snow, daily, for the rest of the season. However, as you might have noticed, until all the loops are publication representing the nordic Craig and Ricky could probably groom the SML blindfold- complete, the chance of you seeing Pisten Bullys working ski clubs of Anchorage, Eagle ed by mid-February. in the middle of the day is high. It turns out they run just River, Fairbanks, Homer, Juneau, Snowmaking operations have had a steep learning fine in the daylight – who knew? Mat-Su, Salcha, Seward, Soldotna, curve and after a few years, we’re still fine-tuning. How- Sometimes, we also shoot snow during the day on un- Kenai, Talkeetna and Valdez. The ever, judging our efforts by results indicates that things finished loops. If you come upon a running fan gun, please Alaska Nordic Skier is published October through April by the are improving, yet some of the challenges and limitations turn around and ski the other way. Those yellow firehoses Nordic Skiing Association that have presented themselves are sobering. El Nino has are charged up to 500 pounds per square inch and should of Anchorage, Inc. brought us another warm, dry winter. A wet-bulb tempera- not be skied over. That goes for the electrical cords, too. ture of 21 degrees or lower is what it takes to make quality Early in the snowmaking process, no effort is made to All rights reserved. © 2015 snow efficiently, but so much of this winter has been in the provide skiing opportunity. With fan guns shooting snow, Articles, letters and advertisements mid-20s. Alpine resorts can compensate a bit by shoot- hoses and cords everywhere, and heavy equipment on the are welcome. Please ensure all names are correct and information is ing downhill so the water has more loft time to form into trails, it just isn’t safe for skiers to be anywhere near these accurate. Submissions may be edited “snow.” We don’t really have that option. operations. Once the first loop is complete, there is still for clarity, content and space That brings up another challenge. Alpine slopes gener- a lot of logistical consideration for getting skiers on the limitations. Deadline is the 15th day ally have wide-open spaces to shoot, while we’re trying snow, which takes a certain amount of choreography dur- of the prior month. E-mail to hit a 20-foot wide trail. Have you ever been to Kincaid ing the snowmaking period. Keeping some loops skiable [email protected]. when the wind is not blowing? You might have noticed while the crew makes, spreads and grooms the snow is a On the cover: Photo from the 2016 Ski For those mounds of snow off in the trees. We had to run the 24/7 endeavor made possible only by working employees Women in Anchorage. Photos by Jan Hazen snow guns at low angles or the product ends up half of a and volunteers in long shifts. None complain (except Bill) mile away. and all understand how important it is. It has always been We frequently end up with some pretty wet piles of our goal, no matter what kind of winter we have, to provide snow. We handle this by letting it sit for a while to dry out. the best skiing possible.

the Alkas a nordic skier 4 ANCHORAGE March 2016 2016 Alaska Ski for Women Another community, and costumed, success

a beautiful sunny day at Kincaid Park, almost 500 women and girls came out to Onchallenge themselves and be a part of the battle to end domestic violence. While skiing on a shortened course, the racers drove themselves to the finish. There were some first-timers racing this year and they proved their worth. Many of them stayed and also participated in the Party Wave. The Costume Contest did not disappoint anyone, as usual. This year, celebrity judge Kikkan Randall saw how hard it is to pick the winners. One of the all-time great groups brought sets of their costumes from the last 10 years of the Ski for Women. Going out of the stadium using the tunnel proved a little tricky for some of the taller costumes. Although the lack of snow has kept many from skiing this year, the women that came out and showed their support was amazing. While the final numbers are not in yet, the event is proud to give back to the community with its grant program that benefits local nonprofits like AWAIC, YWCA, STAR and Running Free Alaska that help victims of domestic violence and also help break the cycle.

SKI FOR WOMEN EVENT RESULTS Duathlon: 1. Lia Slemons; 2. Cynthia Decker; 3. Christie Cowee Freestyle: 1. Katie Porter; 2. Ashlyn Johnson; 3. Jennah Jones Classic: 1. Mimi Allen; 2. Jenny Kimball; 3. Heather Johnson COSTUMES Best Group: Google Map Best Duo: Volcanos Best Kiddo: Sock Monkey

PHOTOS BY JAN HAZEN

the Alkas a nordic skier March 2016 ANCHORAGE 5 Save the date for the 2017 Alaska Ski for Women Sunday February 5, 2017

the Alkas a nordic skier ANCHORAGE 6 March 2016 Who said there’s no skiing this season?

Skiers of all ages and skill levels around Southcentral Alaska have taken advantage of the amazing work of the NSAA Operations teams and many volunteers who have turned this challenging season into one filled with snowmaking and, yes, skiing. Great skiing, in fact. That includes many Nordic skiing events, like the East High Relays and other high school races, and AMH Cup racing like Pia’s Classic. This season’s skiing, racing, weather and the volunteer spirit of the legendary Green Grunts even inspired a poem by a young local skier Anders Limstrom. The Ballad of Shrek Hat Guy

A poem by Anders Limstrom PHOTO BY JACK ARNOLD PHOTO BY JIM JAGER A tenuous spread of snow languished under El Niño’s noisome musk. The tepid temperatures and withering weather patterns coerced the crystalline collusion into an unfortunate senescence. ‘Twas only a matter of time before the lugubrious spectacle was brought to its crepuscular conclusion. But soft! What light through yonder hillside breaks? With coat of green and abs of steel, t’was clearly a grunt that did before us congeal. Whilst dodging supermodels throwing themselves at him, he marched onward towards the snow’s suppressor. “Who are you, you pathetic pinprick? You have no power. You have skis, a Shrek hat, and a whit of PHOTO BY BARRY JOHNSON valour. I could smite you in an instant. Your precious snow? Poof! Your winter recreation a mere machination of the aloof.” The ogre-clad stud stood, unphased by the invidious vitriol. He took to tacitly making snow under El Niño’s temeritous taunts. “Look around, it’s 37 degrees. anchoragenordicski.com You’ll make better snow if you sneeze! You want Nordic racing? Don’t even bother. I’ll melt those lovely crystals into drops of water.” Yet he persisted, grooming the trails incessantly; driven to do so effervescently until one day, when El Niño’s tenacity finally trembled. The atrocious antagonist, with all his assaults assembled, was no match for that glorious Green Grunt. The crestfallen whelp whimpered off to the Northeast, leaving Anchorage free at last to ski. Maiden and man alike blushed at his very sight. But quick as he came, he receded, head hung in exhaustion but fist held high, concluding the Ballad of Shrek-Hat Guy.

the Alkas a nordic skier March 2016 ANCHORAGE 7 NSAA scholarships support outstanding Alaska skiers, ski community members DEADLINE FOR 2016- tion of Anchorage (NSAA) College ting way to finish your ski season. To Qualifications, selection criteria and 2017 ACADEMIC YEAR Scholarship program. To recognize be eligible, students must be Alaska additional details are posted on the SCHOLARSHIPS IS MARCH 31 college-bound high school seniors or residents and NSAA members who NSAA website, anchoragenordicski. college students for their scholastic are also members of their high school com/scholarships.htm, and the Alas- The benefits to being a member performance, cross-country skiing, or college ski team. ka Community Foundation website, of the Anchorage Nordic ski com- and participation in their commu- The application process is now alaskacf.org/scholarships. Applica- munity never end. And now it’s time nity, NSAA annually awards multiple open for scholarships for the 2016- tions are accepted online at alaskacf. for high school and college skiers to scholarships of up to $1,500. 2017 academic year. Applications are org/blog/scholarships/nordic-ski-as- take advantage of one more oppor- Applying for a scholarship is a fit- due by 5 p.m., Thursday, March 31. sociation-of-anchoragescholarship. tunity – the Nordic Skiing Associa- A new twist on an old classic: The Anchorage Tour Festival on March 6 In lieu of the traditional Tour of Anchorage, Registration and bib pick up which is cancelled due to poor snow and weather To participate in any of this year’s events, you conditions, NSAA is hosting the multi-race, super- must register online at http://www.anchoragenor- fun Anchorage Tour Festival at Kincaid Park, on dicski.com/tour_of_anchorage.html or at the bib Sunday March 6. Come out and participate in one pick up, from noon-6 p.m. Friday, March 4, at the or all of the following races: NSAA office (203 W 15th Ave, Suite 204). There is The Ski Tour of Kincaid Lap Race: It wouldn’t be no day-of registration. There is a day of bib pick up, a tour without some skiing and racing! Sign up for however, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Kincaid Park the ~15km or ~30km lap race! These races will be bunker. held on the snowmaking loop and participants will REGISTRATION FEES ski laps until they reach their chosen race distance. 9 a.m. start, 11:30 a.m. course closed (racers must All three events: Youth 13-under: $25 online, $50 in person. Adult: $60 online, $70 in person. be finished). Registration $25 online; $50 day of; SKI Tour of Kincaid lap race ~15k/~30k: Youth 13-under: $10 Kincaid Ski Cross: A new event for NSAA! Nordic online, $20 in person. Adult: $25 online, $35 in person. skiers will navigate on their skis through a chal- Kincaid Ski Cross: Youth 13-under: $10 online, $20 in person. Adult: $25 online, $35 in person. lenging and exciting obstacle course. 11:45 a.m. Looking for some springtime fun on the snow? Last course open, 12:15 p.m. start. year’s Anchorage Tour Festival was a blast! Learn SKI Tour of Kincaid: Lap Race ~15k/~30k: Youth 13-under: $10 Fat Bike Tour of Kincaid Lap Race: Grab your more about this year’s event and sign up today! online, $20 in person. Adult: $25 online, $35 in person. fat tire bike and sign up for the ~15km or ~30km Awards will be presented at 3 p.m. More informa- 2015 Tour registration applies to lap race. This will be held on the snowmaking loop tion on each race will be available at bib pick up. 2016 event after the Ski Tour races. Participants will bike laps It’s also a party! If you registered for the 2015 Tour of Anchorage, to equal approximately 15km or 30km. Please re- your race registration is being applied to the 2016 Other race day festivities include a beer garden member bikers should stay on multi-use and single- Anchorage Tour Festival (formerly Tour of Anchor- featuring Midnight Sun Brewing Co. beverages track during the winter. This is a special event; ski age). Do not submit an additional registration; there (two drinks per bib, bring ID); snacks from Great trails are ski-only during the winter. For this event, will be no refunds. If you’re unsure if you registered Harvest, Nature Valley, and Skratch.Great awards all bike tires must also be wider than 3.6 inches last year, or need to make changes to that registra- and prizes from Alaska Airlines, AMH, The Alaska and have pressure less than 10 psi. No exceptions. tion, please contact the NSAA office. Thanks! 1:30 p.m. start. Club, Orso, and more! Volunteers needed Can you help? Can you ask your friends and family who will come out to watch, as well? Email [email protected].

Anchorage TOUR FESTIVAL

ALASKA AIRLINES TICKETS MARCH 6, 2016 PRIZES FOR RACE AND AGE GROUPS 9:00 AM Ski Tour of Kincaid Lap Race DOOR PRIZES 12:15 PM Kincaid Ski Cross BEER GARDEN 1:30 PM Bike Tour of Kincaid Lap Race SAUNA & HOT TUB TO REGISTER & MORE INFORMATION: LIVE MUSIC $25/RACE $60 ALL THREE anchoragenordicski.com/tour_of_anchorage

the Alkas a nordic skier 8 STATEWIDE March 2016 Champions crowned, teams assembled as Besh Cup series concludes The ConocoPhillips Besh Cup ski race season U16: Mallory Conger; Zoe Hancock; Eli Hermanson; Emma wrapped up in early February with a perfect week- Jerome; Aubrey LeClair; Kai Meyers; Noah Ravens; Koby Vinson end of skiing on the Jim Whisenhant Trails of Birch U18: Abby Amick; Will Balcao; Zach Bassett; Jordyn Block; Kinsey Denton; Roan Hall; Maggie Meeds; Zoe Ratzlaff; Tristan Hill in Fairbanks. It was a competitive set of races Wiese that determined the March plans for many skiers. Congratulations to all skiers of the ConocoPhil- Day one was an interval start race for the lips Besh Cup race series and thank you to all U16-and-older skiers followed by a fun afternoon sponsors, volunteers and host clubs for making skicross event for the U14-and-younger skiers. Day the season possible. In addition to ConocoPhillips two was a mass start race for all skiers followed by and TRAX Outdoor Center, CCAK would like to the naming of the two teams headed for postseason thank The Courtyard Marriott, Land’s End Resort, racing either in Cable, Wisconsin, or Nuuk, Green- The Wedgewood Resort, Jolly Roger Designs, and land. Anchorage Fracture and Orthopedic Clinic for The weekend began with the festive Besh Bash their support. CCAK is part of the Pick.Click.Give hosted by Trax Outdoor Center. Complete with program connected to the Alaska PFD. Personal food, live music by multitalented All Weather Skiers contributions made via your PFD will help CCAK of the race series, and an art show, the event hosts continue to meet its mission: to create and support welcomed skiers and their families from across a cross country skiing culture and environment that Alaska. The Fairbanks temperatures were com- PHOTO BY LAURI BASSETT allows Alaskan cross country ski racers to succeed fortable to match the perfect trails and excellent 2015-2016 Besh Cup champions Thomas O’Harra and at regional, national and international competitions. volunteers. Along with the naming of Team Alaska, Anna Darnell This mission was met on every level this year. As CCAK recognized the top skiers in each age group Mozen; Emma Nelson; Gus Schumacher; Emma Sees; Samuel you are reading this, 70 of Alaska’s skiers are re- who earned points in all races of the series, as well York turning from competition in Wisconsin, Greenland, as the top skiers in the U18/U20 category to receive U18/20: Josiah Alverts; Ryan Bickford; Lydia Blanchet; Estonia, Lillehammer and Romania. the traveling Besh Cup trophy. Teammates from Hannah Booher; Jack Consenstein; Clare Cook; Luke Cvancara; If you are interested in being more involved with APU Nordic Ski Center, Anna Darnell and Thomas Ruth Cvancara; Travis Cooper; Anna Darnell; Kinsey Denton; Jenna DiFolco; Max Donaldson; Fiona Fick; Sadie Fox; Trent the racing of Cross Country Alaska, the annual O’Harra, were this year’s champions. O’Harra won Fritzel; Sam Hiltenbrand; Taryn Hunt-Smith; Naomi Kiekintveld; spring summit will be held from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. all six Besh Cup series races. Tracen Knopp; Dawson Knopp; Benjamin Koenig; Sarissa Sunday, April 24 at the ConocoPhillips building in CCAK is pleased to announce the young skiers Lammers; Alejandra Legate; Elizabeth Mans; Jessie Mayo; Logan Anchorage. At the summit, attendees review the who will represent Team Alaska at national and Mowry; Seiji Takagi; Emma Tarbath; Ryan Terry; Canyon Tobin; Conner Truskowski; Hamish Wolfe; Hunter Wonders; Magdalen past season, including its accomplishments and international events: York the challenges in looking to improve the program. JUNIOR NATIONALS: CABLE, WISCONSIN ARCTIC WINTER GAMES: NUUK, GREENLAND Watch the Cross Country Alaska website (cross- U16: Micah Barber; Heidi Booher; Tjarn Bross; Tigan countryalaska.org) and Facebook page for more U14: Dale Baurick; Max Beiergrohslein; Quincy Donley; Maggie Donaldson; Ari Endestad ; Luke Fritzel; Molly Gellert; Addison information. Druckenmiller; Kendall Kramer; Kelly Martin; Kaya Ratzlaff; Rudy Gibson; Amber Hajdukovich; Andrew Hull; Luke Jager; Avery Schumacher The Kachemak Nordic Ski Marathon is ON! Saturday, March 12 • Lookout Mountain Trails

There’s plenty of snow and fantastic skiing in Homer! The 20k and 40k races and tour will be held at the Lookout Mountain Ski Trails. Preregister online until March 10th at www.kachemaknordicskiclub.org.

Follow us on Facebook at Kachemak Nordic Ski Club, or check out the “Trail Conditions” page on our website for the latest trail reports and photos. Kachemak Nordic Ski Club • [email protected] • kachemaknordicskiclub.org

the alaSKa nordic skier March 2016 9

P.O. Box 337 Girdwood Nordic Ski Club Girdwood, AK 99587 skigirdwood .org Girdwood, Alaska

BOARD OF BRIAN BURNETT JUSTIN THOMAS DIRECTORS Vice President CHUCK DORIUS Treasurer PETER ZUG DEB ESSEX BRIANA SULLIVAN ARI STIASSNY JIM BRAHAM President Secretary Thinking outside the track – Nordic skiing in Turnagain Pass BY DEB ESSEX that first weekend including families, You know it’s a good idea when a APU and UAA skiers, fat-tire bikers, few people think of the same thing, happy dogs and walkers. It meanders at the same time, and independently right by the Jeff Nissman Memorial create momentum without the other (a USFS avalanche forecaster killed knowing. By the time the question, in the line of duty), reminding us to “What do you think of a groomed trail stay safe while playing outside. All in in Turnagain Pass?” came to me, all, this trail is a great opportunity to the U.S. Forest Service was already get back on our skis and soak in the discussing this exact topic with GNSC beauty of Turnagain Pass. board member Peter Zug. I would like to thank the U.S. For- Fellow GNSC board member est Service for their fantastic coordi- Brian Burnett called and was “think- nation, the Municipality of Anchorage ing outside the track.” As Mountain Parks and Recreation-Girdwood for Services M anager for the Alyeska Ski their support with grooming fuel, and Resort, he was searching for winter the GNSC volunteer groomers and recreational opportunities for all the board members. and Sally Burkeholder. Both sources Norway and SAS won the men’s 14-ki- visitors and residents getting rained I have heard many positive com- answered yes. In fact the ALSAP lometer race.” out in Girdwood. The trails in Gird- ments from this trial grooming effort website even has photos of Turnagain Jim and Sally remember sleep- wood are “Full on Gretzky” as Brian … but truthfully I’d rather groom Pass as a venue for cross-country ing in their car at Turnagain Pass to would say – too slippery to even walk. snow in Girdwood. ski races when snow conditions in protect the timing equipment used at NordicSkier2.5x3.75 But Turnagain Pass is at 1015 feet Anchorage were too poor to stage the high school races. and snow-covered. So he called to ask races. According to the site, “The last Next came an email from Graham my opinion and wondered if grooming known cross-country ski races held Predeger, the Chugach National For- has ever occurred in Turnagain Pass. at Turnagain Pass was the World est Avalanche Information Center eGIRDWOOD, Bake ALASKA Shop As always, when I need to find out Airline Championships in April 1986. Recreational Ops./Avalanche spe- Alaska Nordic history, I turned to Tim This race was open to employees of cialist. He outlined a possible three- Kelley’s ALSAP (Alaska’s Lost Ski the airline industry. Bjorn Arvnes of kilometer loop from the Center Ridge Area Project) website and call Jim parking area and was coordinating with GNSC volunteers to groom behind him and Ryan Lewthwaite. They designed a great figure-eight loop safe from avalanche danger and Where utilizing part of the National Historic theBuns areHot, Iditarod Trail. and the Soup The result is a family friendly is three-kilometer loop that is a trial Bottomless. for this low-snow winter. It starts Thurs-Mon 7am–7pm | Olympic Mt. Loop from the Center Ridge parking area www.thebakeshop.com | 783-2831 and gathered over a hundred users

Volunteer groomers and board members who make the Turnagain Pass Nordic ski trail sing include Chuck Dorius, Peter Zug, Brian Burnett and Jim Braham. (Not pictured: Ari Stiassny and Briana Sullivan)

Advertise here and your business can reach skiers across the state.

the alaSKa nordic skier 10 March 2016

P.O. Box 44, Homer, Alaska 99603 Kachemak Nordic Ski Club kachemaknordicskiclub.org [email protected] Homer, Alaska

the wine flowed and the snow fell in BOARD OF DIRECTORS AROUND Jan Spurkland such proportions that when they got President THE BAY ready to ski out from Reuben’s Cabin Nicky Szarzi (which at that time had no road ac- Vice-President cess) the trail had completely disap- Richard Burton Homer has SNOW! Treasurer Our batting average has improved peared. “We were pushing through Mike Gracz considerably since the last newsletter. snow up to our thighs,” Linda re- Secretary The Besh Cup came and went without called, “and couldn’t see a thing.” Ah, Carlin Rauch Andrew Peter a hitch (well, there were a few hitches such fond memories. Stacey Buckelew but they weren’t snow-related and in This year’s tour was a tamer event, Glenn Seaman with the wine measured out in more the end everything worked out fine). Derek Bynagle moderate doses (no more pouring The Kenai Peninsula ski champion- Maddie O’Laire ships were great. The Ski for Women your own) and a light sprinkle that Administrative Assistant was, once again, a proper ski. The PHOTO BY PAUL RAUCH didn’t seem to dampen anyone’s Caleb Rauch is cheered on at the spirits. We had three stops: the first COMMITTEES/EVENTS Wooden Ski/Wine & Cheese Tour Besh Cup held in late January in Lookout Mountain Ski Trails (more below) was well-attended and Homer . indoors and the other two outdoors, Mike Byerly at least until the sprinkle got a little everyone went home happier than Lower Baycrest Ski Trails; Snowshoe Trails; when they arrived. The tiki torches As always with Homer marathons, more serious. At that point, the wine, Friday Night Lights; Grooming Equipment there will be plenty of hills to make cheese and crackers, and about 100 Dave Brann have been refurbished and are being transported to McNeil for next week- even folks opting for the shorter people smelling – appropriately – of Upper Baycrest Ski Trails; Marathon Trail version feel proud of themselves. We wet wool crowded into Miranda Wiess Committee end’s Friday Night Lights. And we Alan Parks have three races scheduled in March. hope you will join us. Check out the and Bob Shavelson’s 24-foot yurt, flyer included in this newsletter, the McNeil/Eveline Ski Trails Woohoo! which is about halfway down the Ginger Johnson (Chair) Homer has snow. True, the lower KNSC website and the KNSC Face- marathon connector trail to Twit- Derek Stonorov (McNeil Grooming) Dave Brann (Eveline Grooming) Baycrest trails are basically bare, book page for more details about the ter Creek. It was an interesting ski race and post-race party. back up that hill at the end of the Kachemak Nordic Ski Development; Ski good only for walking and biking. Your Age; Besh Cup Races; Homer Epic 100 Lookout, McNeil and Eveline, though, afternoon, and quite a few stopped Jan Spurkland Homer Epic Brevet have been holding their own, as have off along the way to visit John Mile’s The Homer Epic 100km is unveil- Junior Nordic the Snomad trails out East End Road. sauna. Carlin Rauch ing a new face this spring. The 2016 Except for the occasional rainy day, The Wooden Ski/Wine & Cheese Homer Epic, held on March 19, will be Homer Women’s Nordic we have been skiing consistently. Tour is definitely a tradition worth Stacey Buckelew classified as a brevet, a cycling term Conditions have ranged from, “I think keeping. Webmaster defined as “a non-competitive endur- I’ll come back tomorrow after they Richard Burton ance event with checkpoints.” Sea to Ski – Another happy groom” to “This must be what heaven Alaska Nordic Skier Newsletter Absent from previous years will be Homer tradition is like.” In mid-February, the Lookout Marylou Burton the pre-event dinner and the focus Like the Wooden Ski/Wine & groomers branched out the trails to Snow Machine Maintenance on the top finishers. Participants will Cheese Tour, the Sea to Ski race has Bill Hague include the popular Milli’s Loop, and be encouraged to complete the event been around forever. It’s mutated the McNeil crew hired a Pisten Bully Trail Signs as quickly possible, with a 24-hour over the years, from the marathon- Jennifer Edwards to roll out the Wolf Ridge/Eveline finishing requirement. In a nod to the like course of early years to last Valley loop. These extensions not only Winter Gear & Ski Swap comradery of a brevet, finishers will year’s course that was, sadly, missing Mike Illg add distance and variety, they offer receive equal recognition, regardless its “ski” leg. Well … after the racers big vistas and great skiing. Catch Kachemak Ski for Women & Haven House of their finishing order. dropped their bikes, they had to pick Kris Holdereid them on a clear day and you can see There will be checkpoints along up a ski and run the last 100 yards to Wine & Cheese/Wooden Ski Tour all the way to China. Or thereabouts. the course, every 25km or so. Partici- the finish. So that’s something. Kevin & Jeanne Walker Our snow has also attracted a few pants can pack drop bags, which will Not sure what the race planners Kachemak Nordic Ski Marathon snow-starved visitors from up the be transported to the checkpoints. No have in mind for this year, but the Deland Anderson road, including the Kenai and Sol- food or water will be provided at the race is sure to happen. The race Sea to Ski Triathlon dotna high school ski teams. We hope checkpoints. is scheduled for March 26, the last Kevin & Jeannie Walker to see more of you in March for the While the final course won’t be set Saturday before April Fool’s Day. Not Winter Backcountry Film Festival marathon, Homer Epic Brevet and until the weeks before the event, snow that there’s a direct correlation … Dan Del Missier Sea to Ski! conditions continue to improve at the Keep an eye on the KNSC website higher elevations. The course will and Facebook page for more details. The KNSC Nordic Ski in these 12 spots. Parking outside be groomed, but not marked.Partici- Marathon is back And finally – parking! these spots will result in KNSC los- KNSC Nordic Ski Marathon coordi- pants will be required to carry a GPS Sunset: Those of us who live in the ing our parking privileges. Overflow nator Deland Anderson has declared with the course loaded onto it. KNSC Diamond Ridge area are thrilled with parking has been obtained across that enough is enough. It’s time to stop expects to have a very good course the opening of the new Kachemak Diamond Ridge Road at the Camp whining about the lack of snow along for skiing, biking and running. Emergency Services (KESA) fire hall Homer business. Once the KESA the marathon connector trail and get Pre-registration is required and on Diamond Ridge. It’s comforting parking spots are full, follow signage on with the race. will open on March 1. Participants to know that a fire truck is not as far to the Camp Homer overflow parking. Here’s the plan: The race is sched- can register at kachemaknordicski- away as it once was. The downside Please respect the needs of KESA uled for Saturday, March 12, and will club.org. is that the fire hall is smack dab on first responders, as well as the private begin and end at Lookout. We plan to The Wooden Ski/Wine & the old Sunset trailhead parking lot, property owners at Camp Homer. put in as long a course as we can in Cheese Tour and early this season that became a McNeil: Parking is available in the the general area, including all of the – a happy Homer tradition problem when skiers were parking in school parking lot, but administrators Lookout network with its hills and For obvious reasons, no one can areas that KESA needs to keep avail- ask that skiers park in the lower part loop-de-loops, the Milli’s Loop exten- remember exactly when Homer’s able for first responders. of the parking lot during school hours. sion, and as far down the marathon Wooden Ski/Wine & Cheese Tour KNSC negotiated with KESA to The upper lot is reserved for staff, connector towards Twitter Creek as began. But at least 30 years ago, says allow 12 parking spots along the buses and emergency vehicles. we can get. That’s about 20 kilometers. Dan Del Missier. At this year’s event, south edge of the lot of the fire hall. Lookout and Eveline: These both The short race will be one trip around he and Linda Watson were reminisc- These spots are clearly marked and have their own parking lots. Park your the course, the long race two trips. ing about that particular tour, when numbered. Parking is only allowed car responsibly and enjoy your ski!

the Alkas a nordic skier March 2016 KACHEMAK 11 Homer Saw & Cycle – and skis! BY MARYLOU BURTON ness for almost 30 years by being shy. the snowmobile and ATV business! When Claire Waxman and her But in addition to investing in their These days, Claire and Bob live pri- husband Bob Schmutzler took over business, Claire and Bob have invest- marily in town in the apartment above Homer Saw in 1987, it was all about ed in the community, including the their store. Quite a different locale, chainsaws. Two years later they ski community. They regularly donate but also lovely in its own way. Next added bikes to their inventory and items for KNSC fundraisers and as time you go there, be sure to check changed the business name to Homer event prizes, and for many years they out the little Garden of Eden in front Saw & Cycle, which it remains today. have been the primary sponsor of the of the store that Claire has created But that name doesn’t even begin to Sea to Ski race. They also have not over the years. There are gorgeous adequately describe Claire and Bob’s only allowed the club to run the mara- perennials (no doubt well-fertilized current product line, which includes thon connector trail right by their by Barb’s wandering chickens from not only saws and cycles, but also home on Crossman Ridge, but have Wagon Wheel next door), colorful gar- snowmobiles, ATVs, snowshoes, re- opened it up as an aid station on race den art (some of it created by Doug ally cool clothes, shoes, boots – and day. Racers will tell you that there is Schwiesow, whose old shop is on the skis. How do you fit all of that on a no better place to take a break and other side of the store), and an amaz- letterhead? volunteers will tell you that there’s no ing red-barked, amur chokecherry PHOTO BY MARYLOU BURTON This variety of merchandise isn’t so better place to spend the day. South- Claire Waxman shows off the latest that Claire says was “about the size much an expansion as it is an adapta- ern exposure, a view, a warm and addition to Homer Saw & Cycle’s of a broomstick” when she planted it inventory: fat tire bikes. tion to public demand. “People come inviting cabin, and a sauna – what’s in 1993 and is now over 30 feet tall. To in asking for something and we look not to like? such as it is, is mired in mud for six me, that garden and tree symbolize into how we can provide it,” Claire Until a few years ago, by the way, months of the year and buried in snow the hard work and resilience you need says. Sometimes it pays off, some- Claire, Bob and son Jake lived in that for the other six months. It must have to create an enduring small business. times it doesn’t. Or sometimes a line cabin, which while beautiful, is not been quite a challenge to run a busi- Bob and Claire certainly exemplify of their business moves elsewhere, as exactly on the main drag. The road, ness in town. No wonder they got into that spirit. did Monitor stoves when another local dealer picked up the franchise. But whatever the product, Claire says, they go with quality. You won’t find any Walmart specials here. Hear Ye, Hear Ye, Hear Ye! By the authority of Nowhere is this more evident than in the apparel section of the store, Mother Nature and the board of Kachemak which ranges from Smartwool under- wear to Mountain Hardwear jackets. Nordic Ski Club, you are requested to SAVE the Claire, who among other things runs the front counter, keeps the books DATE: Saturday 12 March 2016. and generally handles the administrative side of things, is the genius behind this. She has great taste and a The Kachemak Nordic Ski Marathon is reborn! Get out your spandex! Activate your good sense of what the well-dressed training log! Tune up your skis! Tone your abs! Let’s race! outdoorsy Homerite wants. And if you don’t know yourself what you want, Our immortal groomers will use the Lookout Trail System as the anchor for a she’s such a good saleswoman that modified marathon course. We really, really hope for a 20k loop, and it’s looking she’ll convince you that that ski skirt pretty good right now. Hope for the best, and think SNOW! (or whatever) is it. “I don’t go in there unless I’m pre- pared to buy,” more than one woman has told me, “because I know that Claire will talk me into it.” Well, there’s nothing wrong with that. You don’t run a successful busi-

Make tracks straight to a skier’s door The Alaska Nordic Skier is mailed directly to thousands of ski enthusiasts every month. When you advertise with us, you won’t have to break new trail to get your word out. Registration: 9:00 am-10:15 am Start Times: 9:30 am Tour 10:30 am Race

online registration also available at KNSC website.

the alaSKa nordic skier 12 March 2016 1150 S. Colony Way, Suite 3 Palmer, Alaska 99645 Mat-Su Ski Club (907) 745-SKIS WASILLA, ALASKA www.matsuski.org

could just about make out the trail say, I will “see” you on the trails next BOARD OF DIRECTORS AROUND outline in the deep winter months. season. PRESIDENT THE VALLEY With the arrival of the GPRA trails in Hans Hill 2013, the MSSC lit a portion of trails Another successful VICE PRESIDENT A Letter from MSSC adjacent to the parking area to help Junior Nordics season Susan Skvorc President Hans Hill – Let facilitate Junior Nordics and well, just The end of season Junior Nordic there be lights! being able to put on ones skis. These party occurs on March 5; you can be SECRETARY With all the political ads and Mike Norton lights represented the first light in sure that no willing Junior Nordic constant barrage of political pundits 20 years to have been erected on ski kiddo will be missing out! The pro- TREASURER trying to tell you who the next PO- trails. gram continues to be a growing suc- Maritt Youngblood TUS will be, I feel compelled to add To put it bluntly, the trail lighting cess with enrollment expanding by BOARD MEMBERS to the noise and reach out to all our project is as exciting of news as the leaps and bounds every season. But Gene Backus members and those enjoying what the original construction of the trails at with that, our need for coaches grows, Daryl Farrens Valley has to offer this winter, to write Natalie King GPRA. Personally, being one of the too. Thankfully, we continue to have about our recent fundraising efforts. Dave Musgrave Monday-through-Friday 8-5 worker great volunteer coaches every season. If you are on our email list, you most Michael Norton bees, the opportunity to ski after Thank you very much coaches; I know undoubtedly received an email From Lucas Parker work without headlight is priceless. the kids appreciate it too! the MSSC informing you of our efforts Tom Smayda Beyond my own personal gains from Edward Strabel to “Light the Susitna.” Pick C. lick G. ive this development, the opportunity Mark Strabel For those who missed out on the With the deadline of the Perma- that this affords the club (i.e. night Chris Tomsen mailer, here is a brief overview. With nent Fund fast approaching, it seems lessons, evening races, etc.) allows Ashley Wise funding from a Mat-Su Health Foun- a poignant time to remind everyone the MSSC to entice even more skiers dation grant, the Matanuska-Susitna that the Mat-Su Ski Club has enrolled and members, which is good for our Borough has solicited bids to have in the Pick.Click.Give program. It’s community. trail lighting installed for all trails at an easy way to support your favorite At the moment I write this, having have led you to ponder, “Why don’t Government Peak Recreation Area, Valley ski club. More details may be only two weeks for fundraising, we they do a race out here?” And if so, the approximately 6.5 km. Borough staff found on our website, www.matsuski. have received a great response to this answer is, “Yes, there is a race Arch- had hoped that the grant funding org. effort. To this I thank all those who angel Valley Road; a race that allows would suffice for this lofty goal, but have contributed. It is members like A Race to the Outhouse #2 the opportunity to ski as fast as you upon opening of the bids it was real- you who help make our community To be honest, this winter has been can to an outhouse, without needing ized that the price for the entire trail great. … how should I say … mediocre. But any real reason, if you catch my drift.” system exceed the grant funds by It is my hope that when this between GPRA and Hatcher Pass, the Provided the ski conditions allow, approximately $100,000. Without addi- month’s Nordic Skier reaches you, Valley has provided relief for those the race is on April 5, which should tional funding, the Susitna Trail would that the MSB will have announced the who have searched for skiable snow. provide a nice cap to your ski racing not be lit as a part of this project. award of the entire GPRA trail light- Archangel Valley has provided the season. No TP required … MSSC board members recognized ing project. To which I can literally goods in recent weeks, which may the opportunity the MSB had created to help transform the Valley skiing experience substantially and as such, decided to pledge $25,000 towards the lighting of the Susitna Trail. This amount represents a significant amount of the MSSC’s funds. Which brings us to the fundraising … Because the board members felt that this project was so important for the our skiing community, we hoped that others would agree and help the club recover some, if not all, of the pledged amount. When I first arrived in the Valley and began skiing with the Junior Nor- dics on the Colony High School Trails in 1993, the kids and instructors relied on two light poles to conduct practice under, which ultimately left us skiing on less than 1.5 km of trail, where we

Three’s a charm for Mat-Su Ski for Women BY TERESA CLEMMER event raised a total of $1,577 for Alaska Family On Sunday, February 7, a large number of Services. This worthy organization operates a na- wacky Alaskans came out and strutted their stuff tionally accredited 32-bed emergency shelter for at the third annual Mat-Su Ski for Women. As women and children escaping abusive situations usual, the costumes were amazing, the food was and provides numerous other services for women tasty, the door prizes were a hit, and much fun and families in the Mat-Su Valley. was had by all. The Mat-Su Ski Club would like to thank event The day started out warm and sunny, and the sponsors Mat-Su Health Foundation and Back- trail conditions were pretty darn good consider- country Bike & Ski for their generous support, ing the sparse snowfall this season. Thanks to along with numerous local businesses that do- the efforts of the volunteers, sponsors, donors, nated raffle prizes. See you again next year! trail crew and enthusiastic participants, the

the Alkas a nordic skier March 2016 MAT-SU/EAGLE RIVER 13 Coaches, volunteer energy fuel the Mat-Su Junior Nordics program’s growth BY TERESA CLEMMER ful that the trail system will get more just going to skate ski today,” and off Just a few years ago, the Mat-Su lights and that new ski trails will be they go. Coach Anjanette often ends Junior Nordics program brought constructed over the next couple of her sessions with the super-popular together a few dozen kids and gave years thanks to the Light the Susitna Caribou and Moose game. them an opportunity to get out and campaign. Mat-Su kids are so fortunate to enjoy the Alaska winter by learning The heart and soul of the program, have coach Anjanette and dozens of the sport of cross-country skiing. The however, are really the volunteer other coaches dedicating their time idea caught on like wildfire. The pro- coaches who make it all happen. and energy to Junior Nordics, passing gram grew to about 100 kids in 2012- One example is Anjanette Steer, a on their love of cross-country ski- 2013, and then doubled to over 200 ski- multitalented Nordic skier, Iditarod ing, and inspiring kids to live active ers in the 2013-2014 season. To make Anjanette Steer musher, native plant and flower and healthy lives. The coaches are room, the program recruited more Government Peak Recreation Area enthusiast, and former proprietor of not alone out there either. Numerous coaches and began offering separate have contributed to the program’s the Sheep Mountain Lodge. Coach assistant coaches, parent volunteers sessions on Mondays-Wednesdays success. Today, Mat-Su kids and Anjanette is always positive and and high school skiers help out by and Tuesdays-Thursdays. In the their parents enjoy the warm chalet, upbeat, and the kids look forward to giving kids helpful skiing pointers, 2015-2016 season, Junior Nordics has lighted stadium area and excellent seeing her out on the trail. She gives keeping an eye on stragglers, tending had another growth spurt. It is now groomed trails. Just this past sum- “skier of the day” awards to her crew, to gear issues, and ensuring that the serving 300 kids in the evening ses- mer, a new fully equipped kitchen was and her excitement for skiing rubs off sessions run smoothly and safely. sions and another 60 homeschool kids installed, and it has made the chalet on the kids. When the hard-packed Aren’t we lucky to live in the Val- during the daytime. even more inviting for Junior Nordic snow sometimes scrapes off all the ley? Thank you coaches and volun- The beautiful new facilities at potlucks and parties. Skiers are hope- wax, she says, “No problem, we’re teers!

P.O. Box 770117, Eagle River, Alaska 99577 Eagle River Nordic Ski Club Club hotline: 689-7660 Junior nordic hotline: 689-7661 Eagle River, Alaska cernsc w. ildapricot o. rg

BOARD MEMBERS

PRESIDENT Jason Dennis [email protected]

VICE PRESIDENT Steve Wilson [email protected]

SECRETARY Allison Erickson [email protected]

TREASURER Bob Stehn [email protected]

RACING Mike Beiergrohslein [email protected]

JUNIOR NORDIC PHOTOS BY ANDY HALL Will Taygan Eagle River skiers face off against Chugiak in the egg toss in the Chugiak/Eagle [email protected] River High School Nordic Ski Olympics. Jack Ginter does the backward ski competition. TRAILS Jim Kaszuba [email protected] ally still holding out hope for a huge in Eagle River. They often help in Annette Brion AROUND dumping of snow. I just hope it is not races, participate in hosting events, [email protected] Scott Bailey EAGLE RIVER at the end of April or the middle of and even run their own ski races [email protected] May. when conditions allow. It will be fun to Chugiak/Eagle River High watch them grow up and mature into Eagle River skiers shine elite athletes. School Nordic Ski Olympics statewide and beyond The Ski Olympics is an annual Some of our older comp kids have crazy ski competition between Eagle been doing great in the Besh Cup se- River and Chugiak high school ski ries. Skiers that have been doing well teams held shortly before region- include Helen Wilson, Emma Sees, als. The competition includes an egg Adriana Profit and Reilly Hall ski- toss, backwards skiing and other ing in the though U16 category; Max non-traditional ski events. Everyone Beiergrohslein and Michael Connelly gets involved and Nordic ski prowess skiing U14; and Annie Connelly skiing doesn’t always guarantee victory. U16+. Junior Nordic update Max recently qualified for the Arc- Believe it or not we are skiing. Bill tic Winter Games in Greenland. Way has been doing a great job keeping to go Max! Helen also qualified for the the stadium, mommas, and sprint snowshoe biathlon and Junior Olym- loop open to skiing. We are skiing an pics. Congrats – that’s huge. abbreviated schedule due to limited This is just the begin for this access and weather, but we are skiing extremely talented group of athletes an average of one night a week. We that have many great accomplish- will keep skiing this schedule until we ments yet to come. These kids are also turning into great role models for Chugiak captains Brian Wing, Roan Hall and Carly Dennis hold the coveted Ski have a condition change either for the Olympics Ski after Chugiak was declared the winner. Last year, Eagle River High better or for the worse. I am person- the next generation of Nordic skiers won it.

the Alkas a nordic skier 14 March 2016

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 AROUND THE INTERIOR Chena Lake Recreation Area is well-known for its sum- Nordic Ski Club mer activities, but it also has lots of trails for skiing. It has of Fairbanks 12 miles (19.3 kilometers) of multi-use winter trails and 7 Spring Junior Nordics session starting JUNIOR NORDIC HOTLINE week of March 8 kilometers of classical-only trails. Both are groomed. Find 457-4437 out more at co.fairbanks.ak.us/pr/Pages/Chena-Lake. WEBSITE WEBMASTER NSCF Junior Nordics program offers a three-week Chris Carlson aspx. spring session Tuesdays and Thursdays at Birch Hill from [email protected] March 8-31 (but no sessions during the week of spring How-To … Skate and classic! PRESIDENT break, March 14-18). If you missed the action over the Two methods of skiing require different technique tips. winter, join us for six action-packed lessons for the mem- Here are some for each one: BRUCE JAMIESON ber price of $45. Register at nscfairbanks.org under the • Skate hop and long glides uphill for fitness and tech- [email protected] LEARN tab. Contact Sally Endestad at 371-9564 or fair- nique: xcskiacademy.com/blog/uphill-skate-hop SECRETARY [email protected] for more information. • Quick tip: Let your hips rotate in diagonal stride: Liz Pawelko [email protected] NSCF now on YouTube tinyurl.com/hfdzcfr TREASURER The Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks now has its own NSCF calendar has upcoming events Mike Donaldson [email protected] YouTube channel. See clips of Junior Nordics, races and Several club and ski-related activities are coming in the a peaceful first-person clip of skiing the White Bear Trail. next few weeks. All are held at Birch Hill Recreation Area AT-LARGE MEMBERS [email protected] Just type in the club’s name in the YouTube search bar unless otherwise specified. Check out the NSCF online Pat Reinhard or go to: youtube.com/channel/UCRwCR5L0JCZaXy- calendar for more details and updates (nscfairbanks.org Steven Hansen Dave Bloom fUnhnj8Aw > Calendar). Most of the activities are described in a story Robert Hannon in this issue, but here are a few other events: Helena Reuter Eric Troyer It takes a Nordic village Saturday, March 5: UAF Ski Tour NSCF board member Robert Hannon recently had an Sunday, March 6: Skijor race at Birch Hill (not an NSCF event) ADULT LESSONS COORDINATOR opinion piece published in the Fairbanks Daily News- Kathy Bue Wednesday, March 9: Wednesday Night Race [email protected] | 371-9543 Miner about what it takes to nurture cross-country skiing in our community. In case you missed it, you can read it at Help NSCF by going shopping FAIRBANKS JUNIOR NORDICS Sally Endestad tinyurl.com/je6hllj. You can earn donations from Fred Meyer to the Nordic [email protected] | 371-9564 Ski Club of Fairbanks just by shopping at Fred Meyer with FAIRBANKS CROSS COUNTRY Beyond Birch – A new place to play! your rewards card. Fred Meyer will donate $2.5 million to Pete Leonard Birch Hill is an incredible trail system for cross-coun- Head Coach, Program Director nonprofits Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington annu- [email protected] try skiing, but there are many other places to ski in the ally through this program. Find out how to help at tinyurl. Fairbanks area. One of those places is out by North Pole. RACE PROGRAM DIRECTOR com/npmcles. John Estle [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP Spring skiing events offer something for everyone [email protected] BIATHLON BY ERIC TROYER Helena Reuter | [email protected] March and April are glorious TOURING months for cross-country skiing in Mike Schmoker | msfbcski@gmail Fairbanks. The Nordic Ski Club of Cam Leonard | [email protected] Fairbanks has several events to cel- NEWSLETTER EDITOR ebrate the wonderful sport of sliding Eric Troyer | [email protected] your feet across the snow.

CONOCOPHILLIPS INTERIOR ing school bring enough volunteers YOUTH FESTIVAL: SATURDAY, so that there is at least a 1-10 ratio of MARCH 19 adults to students. Activities are be- The ConocoPhillips Interior Youth ing planned; more details to come. Festival will be held at Birch Hill DENALI STATE BANK SONOT Recreation Area. This fun, daylong KKAAZOOT: SATURDAY, MARCH event is all about elementary and 26 junior high skiers and is put on by NSCF-FXC junior race-training This ski marathon comes in 20-, program. The shorter distances are 40-, and 50-kilometer sizes. You can geared for youth and allow skiers choose classic or skate styles for any, to try multiple formats in a single but if you choose classic for the 50km, day. Three races include an inter- you get to start a half-hour ahead of val start classic technique race, a the skate-skiers. Everyone skis 10 ki- 100-meter classic technique sprint, lometers up the flat Chena River (as- and a freestyle technique ski-cross. suming safe river conditions). There PHOTO BY ERIC TROYER the 20km participants turn around To keep with the kid-centered theme, Mike Hajdukovich describes the course to the first wave of skiers during the 2015 the event ceremony features awards, Schools on Skis. and head back down the river, while the 40km and 50km participants climb raffle prizes and a pizza feast. Watch entire Skarland Trail, it now follows a more information watch the NSCF up to Birch Hill Recreation Area. The for more information on the NSCF course that stays entirely on campus website (nscfairbanks.org/) or the fun continues even after the race. An website (nscfairbanks.org) and the and avoids any road crossings. The UAF Trails Club website (https://sites. awards ceremony is held that night NSCF-FXC Facebook page (facebook. “classic” character of the event has google.com/a/alaska.edu/trails/). at 6 p.m. and includes soups, breads com/fairbankscrosscountry). been maintained by disallowing skat- ALL SCHOOLS SKI DAY: and drinks. Participants are asked ing, having a wooden ski division, and SKIATHON: SUNDAY, MARCH 20 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23 to bring a salad or dessert to feed 10 keeping it to 20 kilometers, the same This classic-only event held on the University Park Elementary hungry people. Thanks to sponsors distance as the original race. This University of Alaska Fairbanks ski School will host the second annual Denali State Bank, Doyon Limited, joint event of the NSCF and the UAF trails has been run off-and-on since All Schools Ski Day at Birch Hill. Trails Club benefits trail funds. For the 1960s. While it once used the Organizers ask that each participat- See SPRING SKIING, Page 15

the Alkas a nordic skier March 2016 FAIRBANKS 15 Fairbanks skiers head to Arctic Winter Games, Junior Nationals BY ERIC TROYER Greenland. Kaya distinguished herself by winning now skiing for the Alaska Nanooks, will compete in The rare opportunity of traveling to an exotic all six Besh Cup races for her U14 division this the U18/U20 division. Ti will be in the U16 division. land had some skiers playing musical chairs in season. Zoe also did well and will be competing in Joining the brothers will be Ari Endestad (U16) and February. Several skiers who qualified for Junior the U18/U20 division. The other girls joining the a whole slew of U18/U20 skiers: Benjamin Koenig, Nationals, which will be held in Wisconsin, chose Ratzlaff sisters on the cross-country ski team will Logan Mowry, Sam Hiltenbrand, Seiji Takagi, instead to join the Alaska Arctic Winter Games be: Kendall Kramer and Maggie Druckenmiller Jessie Mayo, and Conner Truskowski. Tristan team, which will be competing in Greenland. Both (U14) and Emma Jerome (U16). On the boys’ side Sayre also qualified but declined. Four girls will competitions will be held in March. Junior Nation- Fairbanks will be represented by Dale Baurick also compete: U16 skiers Tjarn Bross and Amber als March 6-13 on the Telemark Trails in Cable, (U14). Also heading to Greenland will be Fairbanks Hajdukovich, and U18/U20 skiers Jenna Difolco and Wisconsin; the Arctic Winter Games March 6-11 in biathlon skiers Eloise Darrow and Hanna Wuttig Sarissa Lammers. Follow the 2016 Junior Nationals Nuuk, Greenland. (both U16). Follow the 2016 Arctic Winter Games at at xcjuniornationals2016.com. In any case, Fairbanks will be well represented awg2016.org/en/content/awg-2016. Skiers for the teams were chosen based on in both competitions. JUNIOR NATIONALS points earned at certain races, such as the U.S. ARCTIC WINTER GAMES National Cross Country Championships and the Thirteen Fairbanks-based skiers, including Alaska Besh Cup race series. The last two Besh Eight Fairbanks cross-country skiers, includ- brothers Max and Ti Donaldson, will compete on Cup races were held in Fairbanks in early Febru- ing sisters Kaya and Zoe Ratzlaff, are heading to the historic Telemark Trails. Max, a Fairbanksan ary. Results from those races finalized the teams.

SPRING SKIING bragging rights in this non-timed Continued from Page 14 event. They are skiing for fun and the Fairbanks North Star Borough, to make a difference in the lives of and Fort Wainwright, U.S. Army people who benefit from the services Alaska. Skiers can sign up now and of the IAC. This non-profit provides find out more information at sonotk- services people needing to leave kaazoot.wordpress.com. abusive living situations. The fun part includes the skiing, but also includes SKI FOR WOMEN: SUNDAY, costumes, a costume contest, and a APRIL 3 potluck luncheon following the ski, Women of all ages are invited to with side dishes, door prizes and a this fun event, put on by the NSCF silent auction. Look for more informa- with help from the Interior Alaska tion on the NSCF website closer to the PHOTO BY REBEKAH WOODMAN Center for Non-Violent Living (IAC). event. Led by Ladies of Leisure organizer Chris Broda, the LOLs participate in the 2014 No one skis for records, prestige or Ski For Women at Birch Hill. SKIER DISCOUNT ONLY 3 miles to Birch Hill

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the Alkas a nordic skier 16 FAIRBANKS March 2016 From courses to technique, Kikkan shares her experience during Fairbanks visit BY ERIC TROYER group’s age,” wrote NSCF-FXC head Fairbanks got a quick visit from coach Pete Leonard. Kikkan Randall in late January and Kikkan also spent a little time with the benefits went rippling through the Junior Nordic skiers. ski club. “After she was done on snow she Competition Director John Estle came inside to sign autographs and flew Kikkan up to Fairbanks using talk with skiers while her 2013 World Alaska Airlines miles that the club Championships Sprint Relay played had earned through its credit card. on the big screen overhead,” accord- Estle wanted Kikkan’s advice on set- ing to Leonard. ting up a sprint course. Later that week, the FXC Masters “We need to upgrade our sprint skiers benefited from her visit when course due to changes in the sport – Leonard passed on advice Kikkan i.e. more and more skiers are double- had given to the younger skiers. One poling in classic events rather than of those pieces of advice was to keep waxing their skis with grip wax,” your femur perpendicular to the Estle wrote in an email. “That being ground when gliding, something this the case I thought it would be ex- writer found very helpful. Leonard tremely helpful to have a three-time PHOTO BY PETE LEONARD said he always finds it interesting as World Cup Sprint Champion (season- Alaskan and Olympic Nordic skiing star Kikkan Randall meets with NSCF-FXC a coach how other skiers and coaches skiers during her January visit to Fairbanks. long sprint championship) with 10- describe good technique. “It was obvious to me that Kikkan announces-pregnancy. plus years of experience on the World “Sometimes something like a verti- has given a lot of thought to what In addition to helping out with the Cup circuit to add her knowledge, cal femur gets lost in other info, and makes a good sprint course,” Estle sprint course, Kikkan spent time with experience and insight into course so it was refreshing for the athletes wrote. “There’s no substitute for the younger skiers – about 150 all togeth- development.” and coaches alike to hear someone high level experience that only some- er – on a wonderful, 30-degree night. Estle contacted Kikkan and she talk about technique with a slightly one like Kikkan possesses.” She worked on skating technique with quickly volunteered to help. The two different emphasis and a few different Kikkan would normally be in all three NSCF-FXC groups: Comp, spent an hour looking over course op- cues on what she focuses on,” Leon- Europe this time of year competing Prep and Devo. tions and decided on one that includes ard wrote. “Especially mid-winter with her U.S. Cross Country Ski Team “With each group she did an a long uphill. The next day they spent when everyone can be fatiguing a bit, members, but she is taking a break overview of skate technique, talk- time with head groomer Tom Helm- so it helps all perk-up a bit.” this season because she is pregnant. ing about a few of the key things that ers discussing what dirt work would She plans to continue competing she focuses on and the cues that Learn more about Kikkan Randall at www.kikkan. need to be done to make the course a com. next year. See more at http://nordic. have helped her in each technique, reality. usskiteam.com/news/kikkan-randall- adapting the complexity of it for each Cross-country skiing partnership benefits students of all ages BY ERIC TROYER “Finally after some thought and a huge swell the ski community is done by volunteers and this Students from two Fairbanks-area schools are of interest at U-Park last year, Eric became even would not only be a great way to invest some time benefiting from a cross-country skiing partner- more determined to make things happen,” Whisen- back into our community and into the lives of future ship. Members of the West Valley High School hant wrote in an email. “Last year, I believe he generations but would also be a way to show their cross-country ski team are volunteering to help the said he had almost 130 kids interested in skiing but appreciation to those who’ve invested much time in afterschool University Park Elementary School Ski with few volunteers to help coach and/or chaperone them.” Club. The partnership is getting young kids on skis the kids, he had to put 40-50 kids on the waiting The idea didn’t take off right away, but it didn’t and staying active while providing high-schoolers list. With similar numbers of interested skiers this take long to fly. with an opportunity to give back to the community year, he’s been able to manage with the help of the “When the idea was first presented to the high in a fun way. WVHS skiers.” school students, I was met with some reservation,” The partnership is the brainchild of Eric Eng- Engman said he hated putting kids on the wait Whisenhant wrote, “but after the first day, the word man, head of the University Park Ski Club, and list last year, but the year before things were nearly must have spread that it was a lot of fun. In no time Greg Whisenhant, coach of the West Valley team out of control because there weren’t enough helpers the list was filled up with more signing up than we and owner of Beaver Sports. For about two years, with all the kids. had room for.” the two had talked about the possibility of West “It was all I could do to control the chaos,” he Now about four to seven West Valley skiers help Valley skiers coming to University Park to help. The said. each Monday and Wednesday. Because the schools two schools are only about a mile apart. Parents and kids hated the waitlist, too, so Eng- are so close to each other, team members can just man put out an appeal for parent helpers. Many re- walk from West Valley after school gets out. They West Valley sponded and now he has about 20 parent volunteers start getting things set up around 3 p.m. cross-country on his list, of which 12 to 15 show up each day. “Both the high school skiers and elementary ski- ski team member “I’ve got 122 kids and I didn’t turn away a single ers are having a blast and I think this relationship Nathan kid this year,” Engman said, emphasizing that he may last through the end of March,” Whisenhant Baring works with couldn’t run program without all the great volun- wrote. “Eric has the high-schoolers help by leading University teers. them in the fields in various ways with drills and Park However, only about eight of the parents started games. Some high-schoolers with more developed Elementary School off as skiers. Some are learning, but Engman need- skiers will ski around a trail onto the slough and fourth grader ed more people who could teach skiing skills. That’s through the woods.” Sneferu Parnell where the West Valley students are so valuable. The Parents also love the arrangement. during high schoolers can pass on their knowledge of ski- “All my kids are having a blast this season! They University ing to the younger skiers. totally love having the high school skiers and are Park Ski Club. “Nordic ski teenagers are just some of the best already talking about next week,” Wakana Acker-

PHOTO BY kids,” Engman said. man wrote to Engman earlier. Ackerman has three KRISTIN PRESLER Whisenhant said he was “a little skeptical” that children at University Park. enough high school students would be interested, “The girls have always enjoyed the ski club, but but nonetheless he gave a pitch to the team mem- they are being challenged and inspired by the older bers. I told the kids that much of what is done in skiers this year,” Ackerman wrote.

the Alkas a nordic skier