FEBRUARY 2004

News for the members of the Madison Nordic Ski Club Vol. 23 No. 4

• A WORD FROM JIMMY • OUR NEXT MEETING Monday, Feb. 9, 2004 Lussier Family Numbskis Score -Ten Heritage Center Agenda Finish at 24-T 6-7:15: Juniors Chili Dinner Fundraiser BY JIMMY VANDENBROOK 7:15: Business meeting was a little crass, so the “Noon-to-Noon 7:45: Snowmaking success Numbskis” were born. The first year went at Blackhawk well enough despite several night sorties 8:00: |Nutrition for skiers done with failed headlamps. Numbski 8:30-9:00: |Socializing pride was high and we looked forward to the next year’s event. MNSC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Year two showed the real mettle and Jimmy Vanden Brook President comradeship of the Numbskis that saw (608) 437-4192 the team through its darkest hour. On my [email protected] first nighttime lap, I fell and tore my knee Willi VanHaren open. I was able to ski in and soon my Vice President (608) 437-3782 teammates were gathered around. Reggie, [email protected] team member and team physician, took Hans Herweijer The Numbskis left to right: Tom Gasner; Reggie Bruskewitz; me to the Hayward Hospital and ulti- Treasurer [email protected] mately all the way back to Madison in the Ron White; First Lady Judy VandenBrook, Jimmy Vanden- Scott Bachmeier Brook; Lee Rooker; and Andy Schultz. middle of the night. What a Numbski! The Membership remaining four team members coolly (608) 824-9642 he pride of the Madison Nordic Ski assessed the best way to honor their [email protected] TClub, the Numbskis (pictured above), fallen captain. They all went to bed and Ruth Bachmeier Publicity were covered in glory during the 24 Hours didn’t resume skiing until dawn, thus pre- (608) 824-9642 of Telemark Ski Race held on January 10th serving the team for another year. Numb- [email protected] and 11th on the Telemark trails near skis know when discretion gets the better Ned Zuelsdorff Race Chair Cable, WI. We placed 6th out of 9 teams. part of valor. (608) 231-1876 The Numbskis have skied all four years of Year three was the year of substitute [email protected] the event and are accustomed to placing Numbskis. Three original members Harry Lum Advertising/Promotions 6th in the Big Team category (6 skiers) scratched in the 11th hour, all for good (608) 273-2821 regardless of the competition, trail condi- reason, although scheduling a proc- hlum@convenience tions, or various disasters. This is well out toscopy just 3 days before the event was electronics.com of podium contention so the allure of this questionable planning on the part of one. Kay Lum Newsletter event to a Numbski is obviously not the While the veteran nature of the Numbskis (608) 249-0186 ext. 110 limelight of the awards ceremony. As their (over 100 combined Birkies) has its bene- [email protected] team captain, I’ve pondered what moti- fits, their aging engine rooms require a lot Greg Jones Youth Ski Chair vates a Numbski to ski a 24-hour relay. of maintenance. Fortunately, Willi Van- 273-3919 The novelty of skiing for 24 straight Haren, Kim Thornton, and Bill Delaney [email protected] hours got our group together initially, filled the gaps and the Numbskis sol- Mark Webber along with some unrealistic expectations diered on through a very cold event. The KidSki Chair about our competitiveness. Our biggest race made such an impression on a stand- (608) 245-7019 [email protected] worry the first year was a name for our in Numbski that Kim penned the now clas- John Taylor team. With a 12 P.M. start time it seemed sic poem “Ode to the Numbskis” (see last Social Director appropriate to be named a “Noon-to- year’s February issue). 236-4565 [email protected] Noon” something. Sitting at Metro’s Ski This year saw a Numbski reunion, with Inn having our pre-race meal of 22-oz T- all the original members returning. Perfor- Walter Meanwell Wisconsin Nordic bones, Tom Gasner’s suggestion of using mances were as solid as ever with no one Sports Foundation Liaison the old pejorative “numb-nuts” was a lead- missing their turn. So what if we placed walt.meanwell@ ing contender and it included the required 6th, nobody got hurt. But I did find it wachoviasec.com alliteration. But Judy thought that term (SEE NUMBSKIS, CONTINUED ON PAGE 14) • WE AIN’T BUYING IT SCOTT! • Why is Snow So Difficult to Forecast?

BY SCOTT BACHMEIER s a meteorologist, I’m prone to be ing snow-to-liquid ratio might be for under conditions of light winds and Aa little defensive these days given any given location. And it can vary temperatures near +15 F. The snow the current pathetic state of snow quite a bit, from a 6:1 ratio for the sweet spot, if you will. The other fac- cover across southern Wisconsin. El really wet, heavy snow that we some- tor that makes meteorologists crazy Niño and global warming times get in the Fall or is the “streakiness” of the resulting issues aside, there are Spring seasons, to 30:1 snowfall distribution. Snow doesn't certain aspects of the …CUT YOUR for really snow that fall in a nice, continuous blanket that weather that are still falls when brutally cold covers an entire state with a nice, rather elusive when it WEATHER DUDE arctic air masses occupy even 12 inches (yeah, don’t we wish) - comes to accurate pre- the region. So if a com- - no, it instead chooses to organize diction -- and snowfall is puter model forecasts 0.5 itself into really weird, long streaks one parameter in particu- SOME SLACK… inches of liquid water that give one side of Madison 10 lar. Many of you probably equivalent over Madison inches while the opposite side of the wonder “Why can't they do a good from the next storm, that could be city sees only 5. A good example of job of forecasting snowfall amounts?” either 3 inches of wet slop, or 15 this streakiness can be seen on a Well, there are two factors that make inches of fluff. It’s not as easy as figur- satellite image of snow cover: forecasting snowfall amounts difficult. ing out the temperature range of the http://cimss.ssec.wisc One is highly variable nature of the clouds where the snowflakes are .edu/goes/misc/030211/030212_MODI “snowfall density”, or snow-to-liquid forming either the moisture content S_CH01.GIF ratio. The old forecasting rule of and temperature profile of the air that Now maybe by the time you read thumb is “10 inches of snow from the flakes have to fall through can this we’ll be up to our ears in snow every inch of liquid equivalent” (10:1 also be a factor. Strong winds can also cover in Madison, making this a moot ratio). All those sophisticated com- play a role, causing snowflakes to discussion. Or, maybe you’ll cut your puter forecasting models out there fracture and lose their lacy structure friendly neighborhood weather dude tend to spit out liquid equivalents, (leading to a lower snow:liquid ratio). some slack next time he or she leaving the poor beleaguered meteo- Some studies have found the highest misses the snowfall amount forecast rologist to figure out what the prevail- snow: liquid ratios tend to occur by, oh 10 inches. ❄ The Schwan Center is the Perfect destination for XC Skiing & Snowshoeing.

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2 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 XC Ski at Tyrol Basin

BY PAT CONWAY Black Earth), take a left (west) on hen cross country ski conditions back and forth. What a view! And County Road J, go 3 miles, take a left Win Dane County are at their worst what a fun non-metal edged decent. on Bohn Road and go 1 mile. there still is an alternative that offers Even though XC skiers are welcome For more information call Tyrol and snow and hills – Tyrol Basin ski area at Tyrol any time of the day, Don talk directly to Don or Sue, 608-437- outside of Mt. Horeb. strongly encourages us to come out 4135, or email them at tyrol@tyrol- We first noticed the white stuff at when the hills are least busy; usually basin.com. ❄ Tyrol when roller skiing by the ski this means right at opening time: M-F area a week before Thanksgiving. 10:00 am (9:00 am on holidays), and For a skiing buddy or information from Then while at a New Years Eve party Sat/Sun 9:00 am. a fellow club member email pcon- we decided to pass on a long drive up At first we thought twice about the [email protected]. north and give Tyrol Basin a try. What $10 + tax a pleasant surprise! “Beginner Area Don and Sue McKay, Managers of Ticket” fee but Tyrol Basin, welcome cross-country then realized skiers on their hills. As Don says, “We the next clos- are about sliding on snow”. To date, est skatable there are no set trails or tracks but snow was a stay tuned. three hour, XC skiers are welcome to cruise one-way car along the bottom and incorporate ride away. hills on either end. The trail we cre- To get to ated started at the far right (as you Tyrol from are looking up hill) on top of “Gentle Madison, go to Ben”, along the bottom, next to the Mt. Horeb, go pond, and then up “Nisse Sti” (Elf north 2 miles Pass…fitting isn’t it) to the west. As out of the vil- the hills became more active we lage on Hwy 78 climbed Nisse Sti to the top and skied (the road to MadNorSki club members Pat Conway and Rob Lucas hit the snow at Tyrol Basin.

MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 ❄ 3 • WHAT’S UP WITH KIDSKI • Toko HelX – It’s Not Too The New Generation of Late… Liquid Waxes

BY MARK WEBBER BY ERIC MITTELSTEADT, TOKO TECH TEAM, MIDWEST RACING SERVICE

untry skiing lot can be said about Toko’s new most effective, it -co ss Aaddition to the world of ski wax. is critical that it ro C One word that comes to mind is needs to dry “FAST”. Known for their drive to completely. innovate, Toko has developed a liquid Absolute best 3 wax like no other. The product: Toko results will be -1 f ds 4 HelX (pronounced “hee-licks”). found if HelX is or ki HelX is Toko’s best overall glide applied inside t’s Not Too Late to Sign-Up to Ski wax. It is available in two formula- (room temp.) I& Have Fun With KidSki! tions: HelX Warm and HelX Cold. The and is allowed Who: Ages 4 & up Warm formulation is Toko’s fastest to dry com- wax when the snow is wet. It is espe- pletely. After drying, there should be Where: Elver Park – Main Shelter cially effective when there is a glaze white powder on the ski base. When: Wednesday Evenings in Janu- or the presence of water in the super- 5.Polish the ski base well with the ary and February from 6:00-7:00 P.M. ficial layer of snow. This is most com- white side of the Dual Pad Cost: $15 per individual / $25 for 2 or monly found in wet new snow or very more (family) wet corn snow. HelX’s resistance to Method 2: (Best used when outside Equipment: No need to buy; option to dirt is still being evaluated. It is cer- or in a hurry. This method requires rent from Shelter for night tainly not bad, but in extremely dirty more skill and is not recommended Apres-Ski: Hot Chocolate & Snacks conditions involving longer races, for the novice waxer) one should definitely consider Jet- available in Shelter, or bring your own 1. Apply the base and HF (High Flu- stream Old Snow Powder ironed on Lots of cross-country skiing fun & oro) “wax layers of the day”, scraping as the best choice. games; some instruction and short and brushing between each layer. The HelX Cold formulation is for tours. Every child gets a really cool colder conditions (less moisture in 2. Using the Dual Pad (provided with ski , if they do not have one the snow) than HelX Warm but is not HelX), scrub the ski base with the yel- already. for really cold conditions. HelX Cold low side of the pad which cleans the Several “theme” nights including is for conditions that do not have base on a microscopic level for the “” Ski, “Treasure Hunt,” etc. quite enough moisture for HelX Warm HelX application. We are also considering a one-day to perform in, but there is still some 3. Liberally spray HelX on the ski trip north. moisture. One can find these condi- base making sure that the entire base End-of-Season Pizza Celebration tions in air temperatures from freez- is completely wet. Party in late-February, or early March. ing (32 degrees F) to about 15 degrees 4. Using a roto cork at full rpms and Parents can participate with F depending on location and whether corking “into” the ski base, cork the youngest children. Try to meet on the waxing is being done for skating HelX until it is dry (and there is a non-snow nights for other activities or classic. The Midwest region, for waxy residue on the ski base). like Pole Hikes, “Illuminated” and Ice- example, is humid enough that HelX Skating. 5. Using a Nylon Polishing Brush, Cold can be used in some relatively Come Join Us for Some Winter Fun! brush the HelX out of the base struc- cold conditions (but not COLD!). Register by calling Mark Webber at ture. 245-7019 (weekdays), or email web- APPLICATION OF HELX 6. Polish the HelX well with the white [email protected]. ❄ Method 1: (Best used at room tem- side of the Dual Pad. perature with ample time to allow HelX application to dry completely) When done properly, either of these 1. Apply the base and HF (High Flu- methods will yield the same result. oro) “wax layers of the day”, scraping The issue is how much time the and brushing between each layer. waxer has and under what conditions 2. Using the Dual Pad (provided with the wax is being applied. If there is HelX), scrub the ski base with the yel- not enough time to allow the HelX to low side of the pad which cleans the dry completely or if outdoors, then base on a microscopic level for the the best application method is using HelX application. the roto cork. 3. Liberally spray HelX on the ski base One 50ml bottle of HelX yields making sure that the entire base is approximately 12-15 applications completely wet. (pairs of cross country skis). Several well-known Madnorski’s were seen posing as 4. Let the ski sit until the base is com- To find out more about Toko HelX, models for a famous company (who happens to be an pletely dry. This could take from 20-40 including the Technical Description, advertiser in this issue). Can you find the ad? minutes depending on the room con- go to www.tokous.com/Manuals/ ditions. For the HelX application to be HelX%20Manual.pdf. Happy Skiing. ❄

4 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004

REI Invests in the Outstanding Club’s Youth Performance BY WALTER MEANWELL in X-C Ski ast month REI Co-op provided the nection to the Wisconsin Nordic Lclub with a check for $2,500 for Sports Foundation. They received Racing our Junior’s program. This grant was the donation on our behalf because the result of a coordinated team effort companies need to contribute to BY YURIY GUSEV by many club members, all of whom 501c3 non-profit organizations of receive our deepest gratitude. REI which we are not. Coach Fariss will n December 27th, Russian Style Madison store manager Steve Voltz then submit a grant request to the OSki School elite athlete and Mad- said, “This money comes from our Foundation for the money. That is NorSki member Lorie Wesolek employee grant fund. We are very how it works. Why should you care? earned a second place in one of the happy to support our areas youth”. This is relevant to you because it most prestigious sprint races in Junior’s coach Don Fariss, President means that you can invest in your North America. The race took place Jimmy Vandenbrook, publicity chair club’s future and enjoy the benefits of in Fort Kent, Maine at the Maine Ruth Bachmeier, Greg Jones, Youth a tax deduction. Nordic Training Center, which will Skiing Chair and I were on hand to Many businesses support our club host the Biathlon World Cup races in receive the grant. in various ways. Please keep this in February. This race was part of the ❄ We again utilized our valuable con- mind when you are shopping. Super Tour (formerly called the Nor/Am Continental Cup) and attracted the best sprinters from the U.S. and Canada. On the first day, Lorie placed a respectable tenth place out of 70 skiers in a 10km clas- sic. On the second day, she qualified 10th in the preliminary round, despite some technical wax prob- lems, which was good enough to move on to the heats. In the quarter- finals and semifinals Lorie led confi- dently and earned a spot in the finals. After the gun went off, it was Lorie who held the lead for half of the race before being passed by the fastest skier in the U.S., Rebecca Dessault. After the finishing sprint, Lorie main- tained the second position. For the last year Lorie had been training using Black Hawk Ski Club facilities including cross-country ski trails with artificial snow. Thank you to everyone for all your tremendous From left to right: Walter Meanwell, REI Madison store manager Steve Voltz, Don Fariss and Greg Jones. Ruth work on snowmaking and make Bachmeier was also present… since she is publicity chair, she took the photo! these results happen. ❄

ALL OF OUR MEETINGS THIS YEAR ARE AT THE LUSSIER FAMILY HERITAGE CENTER, LOCATED AT 3101 LAKE FARM ROAD, 608-224-3604 2003-04 MadNorSki Meeting Schedule

Board Club Meeting Meeting Club Meeting Newsletter/ Meeting Meeting Theme Agenda Location Ad Deadline Tuesday Monday Birkie war Juniors Lussier Family Friday Jan. 27 Feb. 9 stories/ Fund Raiser Heritage Center January 16 TBA 6:30 pm Birkie alternatives Chili feed Tuesday Monday Racing Election of Lussier Family Friday Feb. 24 Mar. 8, up Officers Heritage Center February 13 TBA 6:30 pm POT LUCK

6 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004

• IT’S MORE FUN THAN YOU THINK! • 24 Hours of Telemark — A Photo Essay Judy Archibald proudly holds up the second BYKAYLUM place metal she earned as part of her 4 person “older than dirt” team, The Avengers! She doesn’t look THAT old!

Margaret Riley (2nd place) and Stacey Meanwell (1st place) each skied 45.9k in the 3 hour solo women’s category…but Stacey did it 11 minutes faster. Way to kick butt Stacey! Below: A flawless tagoff for team Bloody Lungs, as Chris

Halvorson tags off to Tom Photo by Kelly Randolph Kaufman. What a sight! This skier was so fast, that only their headlight was captured! Photo by Sarah Balbin Chris Halvorson stays warm inside the clear tent and contemplates the meaning of Red Bull while waiting for his teammate. Photo by Kelly Randolph

Tom Woody (above) anxiously awaits his turn in the tent, while

(at left) his fellow Bloody Lungs Photo by Kelly Randolph teammates, Dirk Mason and Tom Three-time Solo Freak cham- Kaufman discuss their strategy. pion Chris Ransom broke his Later that same day, (at far arm just one week before the Photo by Kay Lum left), Tom Kaufman is blinded by race. But it didn’t stop him. some insensitive photographer He “only” skiied 122 k… just seconds after he finishes a (with one pole) and he found Photo by Sarah Balbin nighttime lap. time to sleep too. Apparently, Shamane Mills plans to be out there awhile — as she checks to make

Photo by Kelly Randolph sure her headlight actually works. Photo by Sarah Balbin A few necessities of the race.

Carolyn Senty was ready to Photo by Kelly Randolph capture her teammates on film Race director Dennis Kruse tells jokes while the Dave Robb and Kay Lum happily head out to take their near the end of the race. skiers ski their brains out. turns on the course in the wee hours of the morning. 8 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 FEBRUARY IS RACE SEASON! Whatever you need, we probably have it. We stay stocked up ’til the last snowflake is toast.

TOKO HELIX * SWIX CERA F * REX BLUE * FAST WAX WAXLESS RACING SKIS FOR THE BIRKIE... …and 12,000 other items too numerous to mention. Order online: newmoonski.com or call 1-800-754-8685 We’ll get it to you fast! BIRKIE 2004 EVENTS • Wax clinics all day Thursday and Friday before the race. • Factory reps on hand to answer questions too hard for the locals to tackle. Stop in and visit long lost friends. • Extended hours Birkie week. Closed Birkie Saturday for the race. Open Sunday.

Located in Hayward, Wisconsin, home of the Birkie.

HIGHWAY 63 NORTH IN HAYWARD.• OPEN 9-5 M-SAT. 10-4 SUNDAY Ice Age Challenge: Greg Marr Will Snowless But Successful be Missed

BY NED ZUELSDORFF by Many

BY IAN DUNCAN snowless, renewed MadNorSki website. AMadNorSki Ice Age Thanks are due to the reg Marr died Challenge was held on many folks that made Gwhile skiing at January 4. The planned the race possible. Madi- Iola on December 15K and 5K ski race son’s Don Miller Subaru 19, 2003. Greg was became an 8.2K and 5.4K is the primary sponsor the founding editor fun run on the bare of the Ice Age Challenge of Silent Sports in ground at Madison’s as well as the MadNorSki Waupaca, Wiscon- Elver Park. Fifty-seven Tuesday Night (Want-To) sin, a magazine dedi- energetic participants Race Series. Generous cated to the pursuit and twenty plus hard- funding provided by Don and advancement of working volunteers Race director Ned Zuelsdorff was Mller Subaru allowed silent sports throughout the Midwest. resulted in a successful awake the entire night before the race fees to be reason- Originally the magazine was called event based on the large race, hoping upon hope for able for competitors. Wisconsin Silent Sports until it was number of smiles that snow… but the race was a go, Gordy Bartholomew pro- realized that it had a much broader were observed. The fun even without snow! vided post race food and appeal throughout the region. approach everyone took to the event beverages. Harry Lum arranged for Greg loved the outdoors and was became obvious when people didn’t door prizes. John Miller and Ben Neff an active cross-country skier, cyclist, jostle for position on the start line. provided graphic arts expertise and rower. He developed an extensive When the starting pistol misfired, including design of the Ice Age Chal- network of friends and associates lenge logo. Joe King provided involved in all of these sports through website support including the his active participation. Silent Sports option for online registration, was truly Greg Marr from the editorial and was the chief timer for the through articles he penned. The mag- race. Ruth Bachmeier was the azine charted its own course, not race photographer. Her photos beholding to any major equipment are posted on the MadNorSki maker or company and always bear- website. Many other volunteers ing his stamp. His editorials were stepped up to help with regis- well-written, thought-provoking, and tration, timing, on-course frequently funny. He talked at the direction, food, and clean-up. Club a number of years ago about his These efforts and the assis- early days in cross-country skiing and tance provided by the Madi- dressed as he had done on his first Ned lines them up… son Parks Department to let day out. In farmer’s coveralls and Ready… Set… us hold the event are appreci- multiple layers underneath he gradu- nobody moved, until ated. ally removed them all to reveal a the second trigger pull Finally, the race would not more svelte figure clad in Lycra. It and the official starting have happened without the was must amusing, although some shot. When have you efforts of the race organizing were not sure when he would stop! seen that at a race? committee who began work On a personal level he was a kind, The race was truly a on this project last August. modest, self-effacing man with a “challenge” with run- The committee included quiet sense of humor, warm chuckle, ners having to com- … Go! Frank Farwell, Greg Jones, Dirk and a great smile. His personal quali- plete the “Mammoth’s Climb” and top Mason, Tom Kaufman, Rob Lucas, ties were evidenced by the large the “Terminal Moraine” as well as Walt Meanwell and Madeline Uranek. turnout at his funeral and the many negotiate the sometimes difficult (at Although the committee’s goal was a eulogies that referred to his kindness, least on skis) “Esker’ve”. Awards were ski race, we knew an alternate plan generosity, and friendship. His presented to top finishers, everyone was needed. Judging from the looks untimely death at 52 leaves a major received a stylish “Ice Age” T-, on every- vacuum in the cross-country ski and most people walked away with a one’s faces world in the Midwest and I hope that door prize provided by Fontana (after they we all strive in whatever way we can Sports. recovered) to ensure the continuity of Silent Competi- the effort to Sports, his most cherished profes- tors ranged in hold an event sional accomplishment. We are all age from 13 to was worth it. reminded of human frailty, especially 73. Complete We will likely when one gets older. “There but the results are give the grace of God go I” passed through my posted on the snow gods mind on news of his death, and while another passing away on the ski trail might be Race committee chance to a choice of many of us, it would not member Dirk Mason show up next Prez. Jimmy musters up the be at such a young age with so much keeps track of bibs. year. ❄ energy to ring a cow bell. more to accomplish. ❄ 10 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 SKI TRAB U.S.A. Distributor Joseph S. Gollinger & Associates 2224 Wild Timothy Rd Naperville, IL 60564 630-922-5855 [email protected] www.skitrab.com

• Ask for it now at Planet XC• 800-380-8412• Porkies Skips a Year Chili Dinner!

BY MADELINE URANEK BY DON FARISS

kiers who trekked to Lake Supe- Like public services across the US, ome a tad early to the February Srior for three years of the Porcu- the Michigan Department of Natural Cclub meeting, get yourself a fine pine Mountains Ski Marathon will be Resources has been hit with budget chili dinner and help support our disappointed to learn that the event cuts, and the DNR has had to pass the Junior skiers. The Juniors will be has been postponed a cuts along to the serving up healthy portions of both year. “Maybe we’ll do it WE WERE ONE Porquepine Mountain meat & meatless versions along with every other year,” said Wilderness State Park, raw vegetables and assorted breads one of the volunteers. “It OF THE ONLY truly one of the jewels of for just $7.50. was a lot of work, and the upper Midwest. You’ve got to eat before the meet- frankly, we were disap- PLACES IN THE Skiers with a love for the ing, right? And without some suste- pointed at the low turn- park, its trails, cabins, nance, who can possibly suffer out last year. We were MIDWEST WITH and future ski events through Jimmy’s endless prattling on one of the only places in would do well to join: and on and on. (Tee hee hee, just kid- the Midwest with snow; SNOW… AND ding, Jimmy.) But hey! Doesn’t this events everywhere were Friends of the Porkies sound like an excellent complement cancelling, and still we STILL WE PO Box 694 to your normal club meeting beer didn’t get a particularly White Pine MI 49971. consumption? And at the same time big group.” DIDN’TGETA E-mail: you can be helping out our high-flying MadNorSkis were there [email protected] Juniors. in abundance in 2003, PARTICULARLY So, plan on arriving between 6:00 however, and truly The current president and 7:00 P.M. for some great food for a enjoyed the gorgeous BIG GROUP.” is Jim Bradley, (906) 884- great cause. All proceeds will be set trails, with hardy souls 4274, who lives in aside for travel expenses for any Mad- entering both the 21 K and 42 K clas- Ontanagon, Michigan Excerpts from NorSki Junior who wins a regional sic-style race on February 1, 2003. The Quill, the occasional newsletter berth to Junior Nationals this year or The course followed the outer of Friends of the Porkies, can be next. And although $7.50 is the set perimeter of the park's Nordic trail found at www.porcupinemountains price, additional contributions will be system. .com ❄ gratefully accepted. ❄ Becker Law Office Attorney Donald W. Becker 1334 Applegate Rd., Suite 202 Madison, WI 53713 1-800-254-7766

A PROUD MEMBER OF MADNORSKI.

Helping Disabled Individuals with Social Security Appeals for over 20 years.

12 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 Southern Wisconsin’s Birkie Headquarters In the heart of the Kettle Moraine — just minutes from Lapham Peak. Rossignol Rossignol Star

Yoko Toko •BIRKIE •ROSSIGNOL WAX CONCEPT TIPS STORE Star •EMAIL Swix US FOR Vauhti •BEABIRKIE CHAMPION BY SKING UPCOMING Rossignol Toko THE WINNING SKIS WAX CLINICS Swix AND FROM LAST YEAR’S BIRKIE •WAX TECHNICIANS •LARGEST WAX •SKI IN COMFORT ON STAFF SELECTION IN AND CONTROL WITH SOUTHERN CUSTOM FOOT BEDS •FOR REALLY FAST SKIS WISCONSIN FOR THE BIRKIE: WINTER- STEIGER STONE GRINDING •WAX TOKO HOT BAG FOR SOAKING ACCESSORIES

•WAXING TOOLS

•FOOD AND ENERGY NEEDS Think Snow!

20 Years of Ski Fitting Experience! ...it’s a lifestyle! FULL SERVICE ESPRESSO BAR 105 N. Main Street • Dousman, WI 53118 Phone: 262-965-4144 • Fax: 262-965-5214 THE ONLY PLACE YOU CAN HAVE e-mail: [email protected] A BOCK WITH THE DOC WHILE YOU SHOP. Hours: M-F 10-8 Sat. 10-5 Sun. 12-4. ALL for a HAT • SECOND ANNUAL! • BY MADELINE URANEK Fun Day at hat will we be skiing for next? WWood axes? Wood stoves? Snow the Lussier blowers? The Northwoods folk certainly had their finger on the pulse of the ski Family crowd when they invented the Stormy Kromer Pursuit – a two-day Heritage classic-then-skate event near Hurley, Wisconsin – where each participant Center was rewarded with a Stormy Kromer SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2004 hat. FROM 1-6 P.M. A what, I asked? Something about flaps over the ears. Well, let me tell he Madison Nordic Ski Club will you, when the event was finished, Thost a “Farewell to Winter” party and the skiers and locals all met for featuring orienteering and skiing (if pasties in the Mercer Community Proudly donning their newly earned , from left to possible) for all ages at the Lussier Center, it was just one big Paul Bun- right are: Jim Martyn, Gail Moede, Mike Ivey, Madeline Family Heritage Center on February yan convention. The locals had Uraneck, Willi VanHaren. 29, 2004. We will have the entire facil- Stormy Kromer hats – they’ve been groomed and up and down, around ity open for club members free of wearing them since 1903 –and Sorrel corners and along Ye Old Grade (rail- charge. Please bring the whole family. boots and fat . The skiers had road bed) at Montreal Ski Area. Sun- Hot chocolate and chili will be pro- Stormy Kromer hats, though they still day’s 15 K, two-loop skate at MECCA vided. After dinner we’ll have a bon- looked a bit dorky, with pointy yellow Trails north of Mercer was challeng- boots and skin tight lycra . ing and ever-turning, taking skaters fire and a candle-light ski or hike Still, it was an improvement. through lowland swamps and the depending on conditions. My take on it was that some North- Turtle River Flowage. The event So, mark your calendars now for a woods skier thought that urban, min- favored the all-round skier, and low-key, fun event, that everybody eral water; vegan types just needed attracted lots of area folks, plus a can enjoy. Since we seem to get all better Wisconsin apparel to make slender handful from Madison, Mil- our snow in March in recent years, them “fit in.” Less embarrassing when waukee, and the Twin Cities. Organiz- we think this could be the best skiing they hail you in the bar. ers had hoped for 50 to 100 of the season! And if the snow deserts The race was a first annual. It was participants for the first year, and hit us, we’ll still have fun. ❄ sponsored by the Iron County Devel- it right in the midriff, capturing 72 opment Zone, folks who envision entries, with 56 actually completing more bikers, canoeists, hikers, both events. campers, kayakers, and cabin buyers MadNorSki Gail Moede took first Wails of in their neck of the woods. As word place in her age group, and got has gotten around about MadNorSki’s quoted in the Ironwood Daily Globe. December Mike Ivey and Willi Van Haren’s “Snow Homeowners Ivey and Van Haren bat- BY WILLI VANHAREN Palace” just down the road, the Devel- tled it out for who would have to pay opment folks are on to a good idea. the month’s mortgage (Ivey will pay, checked in recently with a cer- Along with the Zone people, Penokee by a mere 16 seconds on the com- Itain “Out of Favor” weatherman Rangers, Hurley Lions Club and bined course). Jim Martyn skated a and got some interesting data. MECCA Ski Club, Stormy Kromer decent race, and Madeline Uraneck Think the last few Decembers have headed the sponsor list, with employ- raced several small children and been low on snow? It’s not your ees working overtime during the race, plump housewives to the finish line to imagination. check it out: 2003 - emblazoning race logo on made-to- uphold the honor of the Capital City. 3.6”, 2002 - 1.6”, 2001 - 4.3”, 2000 - your-head-size requirements of late Do we recommend this event for 35.0”!, 1999 - 3.2”, 1998 - 2.2”, 1997 - registrees. were still warm from YOU for next year? Sure, save Janu- 14.3”. Hey, that’s an average of 9 the sewing machines. ary 8 and 9, 2005, head for Hurley / inches per year, not far from the Saturday’s event was all classic – 10 Ironwood / Montreal / Mercer and 12.6” average, but 5 of 7 very bad K that had been cut down to 7 K due start lookin’ like you belong to the years. December snow is special, it ❄ to recent rain storms, but beautifully North Country. sticks around because of the low sun angle and we are willing to ski (NUMBSKIS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) is seriously wrong. Being in the game it in any condition. I miss it! Even touching how many folks wondered is adequate Numbski motivation. snowmaking at Blackhawk has about my own personal safety, includ- Clearly, to be a Numbski is to be per- been limited due to lack of solid ing one of the organizers. They must sistent; to have “sisu” as the Finns cold weather. No wonder we filled consider me the litmus test for would say. Lastly, from all the team up the Minocqua bus! Skiers are course safety. You would think I members, a big thank you to our first like farmers, always griping about crashed in every event. Skiing ability lady, Judy, for critical logistical (last the weather, yet eternally opti- aside, I doubt any other 24T competi- minute run for head lamps), nutri- mistic at the beginning of every tors had a post-race feast to equal tional, and moral support. We’ll be season. Keep the sunny (but cold) ours. Our race focus is on fun and if it back again next year just to hear that side up. See you out there. ❄ ever gets too serious then something stirring exhortation: “Go Numbskis”! ❄ 14 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 Other Stuff… (Below) Mike Ivey gets ready to ski the Stormy Kromer race, wearing yet another unique hat that he probably earned doing another ski race somewhere!

For the first time in history (ok, perhaps the last 5 years or so) Demo Days actually happened! There was snow in Minocqua and the bus was full to the brim with happy skiers!

The Bloody Lungs made it to the podium in the 24 hours of Telemark in one of the most competitive categories: the Big Team. They were just 5k short of 2nd place, and beat the 4th place team by Krista and Dirk Rettig tried to register their son Pavil for the 10k. From left to right: Mark Torresani, Innaugural Ice Age Classic, but he was disqualified because Tom Woody, Tom Kaufman, Aaron Tarnow, he did notwear his bib properly. Maybe next year, Pavil. Dirk Mason and Chris Halvorson. SNOW… PLEASE!

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MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 ❄ 15 MADISON NORDIC SKI CLUB MEMBERSHIP FORM Sign up now for the 2003-2004 cross-country ski season! (you can also sign up on-line at http://danenet.wicip.org/madnord/club.html)

Is this a renewal or a new membership? What type of membership? Individual $20 Family $30 Junior $10 (18 or under) Kidski: $15 for individual or $25 for 2 or more kids from the same family

Additional donation $ ___ to support local ski groups, trails, and promote XC activities Name(s): ______Address: ______City: ______State: ______Zip: ______Home phone: ______Work phone: ______Email address: ______Membership information is for club members only and is not supplied to commercial vendors. If you do not want your email to appear in the membership list, please check here __ BRING TO NEXT MEETING OR SEND TO: Madison Nordic Ski Club • PO Box 55281 • Madison, WI 53705

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