J a n u a r y 2 017, Vo l .18 , N o . 4 Anchorage, Eagle River, Fairbanks, Girdwood, Homer, Juneau, Kenai, Mat-Su, Salcha, Seward, Soldotna, Talkeetna and Valdez
GOOD TIMES, COOL TREES AT NSAA’S FIRST SOLSTICE TOUR OF TREES. PHOTOS BY SCOTT BROADWELL AND SARA MILLER
Anchorage...... 2 ANCHORAGE STATEWIDE GIRDWOOD Eagle River...... 11 Solstice Tour of Trees UAA coach thanks New energy, ideas Fairbanks...... 13 a new winter tradition supportive community could lead to new trails Girdwood...... 12 Kachemak ...... 6 Mat-Su ...... 10 8 9 12 Statewide ...... 9 2 January 2017
203 W. 15th Ave., #204 Anchorage, Alaska, 99501 Phone — 276-7609 Fax — 258-7609 Anchorage Nordic Skier Hotline — 248-6667 [email protected] Newsletter Of The Nordic Skiing Association Of Anchorage, Inc.
BOARD MEMBERS NSAA’s impact, and story, continues to grow PRESIDENT Joey Caterinichio VICE PRESIDENT Sara Miller Message from the NSAA President / Joey Caterinichio SECRETARY Josh Niva Greetings NSAA Members and Anchorage community. have generated less revenue. In order to help in this area, TREASURER It is my pleasure to introduce myself as the new NSAA funds must continue to be raised through personal dona- Karl Garber MEMBERS President. I follow in the great footsteps of many amazing tions and corporate donations. To enhance this effort, Elizabeth Arnold past presidents and board members. Our board members NSAA began working with fundraising consultants. Mike Miller Dustin Shannon along with all of our volunteers make this organization Thank you to the Alaska Community Foundation’s Molly Brown what it is today. Thank you especially to Jeff Scott who led Strengthening Organization Grant, a grant that funded Alex Grumman this board for the past years. Jeff’s dedication, enthusi- professional experts to work with the NSAA staff and OFFICE STAFF asm, passion, ideas and thoughtfulness were innovative board members. New skills and methods were learned Erin Beam, Business Manager Tamra Kornfield, Program Manager and brought NSAA many great opportunities and pro- to reach new parts of the community and clearly tell the Amber Adams, Office Manager grams. I look forward to building off Jeff’s innovation. NSAA story. Areas such as utilizing public service an- OPERATIONS STAFF Our community is one of the best in the nation that em- nouncements, connecting with local businesses that want Ben Powell, Director bodies Nordic skiing. Emphasizing this was the movement to highlight the works of local nonprofits, and learning Craig Norman Bill Brion to save University of Alaska skiing. Every piece of our new ways of communication were all outcomes. Peter Zug puzzle is important for this community. The campaign to NSAA has approached many businesses in Anchorage Annette Brion Matthew Pauli save UA skiing was a microcosm of what this great com- that have never supported NSAA before; some are now Ricky Prince munity can do by working together. donors, but all now have a better idea of the impact NSAA COMMITTEE CHAIRS NSAA is currently managing snowmaking at Kincaid has on this community. Direct mailers have also been Park and grooming the various trails around Anchorage, sent to many Anchorage residents, including our holiday ALASKA SKI FOR WOMEN Jenny De Grappa including Hillside, Eagle River and Russian Jack. Quality appeal letter sent in late November. If you have heard trails in all areas of our city are some of the most impor- NSAA’s voice on the radio in the last few months, or your ANCHORAGE CUP RACING tant parts of our mission. Trails are directly funded by the business or employer received a request for support, or Raye Ann Neustel Meg and Bob Stehn community and individual donations and could not operate you have received a letter sharing a local skier’s story, you without the community. Trail support trends the past five have witnessed some of our new tools. BACKCOUNTRY TOURS Patti Phillips, Mary Vavrik, Karlene Leeper, years have been in a decline. Inclement weather yielded Please feel free to give feedback, enjoy the snow on Ken DePalma less participation in NSAA programs and NSAA events trails and look to volunteer at many upcoming events. BIATHLON Co-chairs — Catherine Kilby and Marti Pausback
AROUND HIGH SCHOOL RACING THE BOWL John Christopherson HUTS Call NSAA office for reservations Ski Train — Curry with kids! JUMPING Karen Compton Alaska Superheroes, Ski Hoppers, Vivienne Murray Prairie Dogg Pound, Unicorns, Curry Mike Jokela, Coach with Kids and Cheesy Puffs … Ski JUNIOR NORDIC Train has a unique culture each year. Eric Egeland, Chair With these group names, all signs LANDS COMMITTEE indicate the 2017 trip – scheduled for Gordon Wetzel Saturday, March 11 – will exceed all MIDDLE SCHOOL RACING expectations. Dave Blanchet More than 200 remain available for this season’s Ski Train, with the RACE CHAIRMAN Tim Stone vacancy mostly in the family cars. Curry with kids would create a great SCHOLARSHIPS Dan Rosenberg family memory and NSAA is helping PHOTO BY ANDY KUBIC Ski Train is more fun with family. Georgia Kubic takes a moment to check in with to make it easy and fun! New opportu- her son, William, and her daughter, Helen, who is in the Chariot. SKI 4 KIDS nities for our young adventurists will Iain Miller be provided, including door prizes, New NSAA Trails Report link to make a donation, should you SKI TRAIN free hot dogs and goodie bags. In ad- keeps skiers informed feel the urge to further support the Sean Bolender sustentation of your awesome trails. If dition to the wondering polka band, In case you haven’t noticed, NSAA TRAILS travel games and drawings will keep has a rebranded its website — www. NSAA’s Operations staff has anything Mike Miller kids busy. Happy kids mean happy anchoragenordicski.com. On the to say, there’s a narrative section for TOUR OF ANCHORAGE parents! pages you will find information about news and information. Learn more Paul Stone Curry is ideal for any kind of rec- Breaking News and Upcoming Events about the trails, their conditions and the work of NSAA’s Operations team NSAA OFFICE HOURS reation not just skiing. Many come to with opportunities to Participate, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday snowshoe or sled, some bring chari- Support and Volunteer. You will also at www.anchoragenordicski.com/ ots, pull-alongs or split-boards. The trails/. BOARD MEETINGS find the new Trails Report. This page Fourth Thursday of the month, terrain varies from flat to rolling hills, is it for one-stop-shopping — www. 6 — 15 P.M. at BP Energy Center Tour of Anchorage — or NSAA office. Open to all. something for all comfort levels. Ski anchoragenordicski.com/trails/. Celebrating 100 years of lessons are available upon request for The site has trail maps for the Nordic skiing in Anchorage those interested to ease their Curry Anchorage area and more points of 2017 marks 100 years of cross-coun- experience. interest beyond. You’ll find informa- try ski racing in Anchorage! Celebrate To purchase Ski Train tickets or tion about how NSAA grooms, in six the landmark by setting a mark of learn more about the iconic Alaska easy steps, and you can learn every- your own at the Tour of Anchorage on event, visit www.anchoragenordic- thing you ever wanted to know about Sunday, March 5. Sign-up by Febru- ski.com/events/ski-train/. making snow. There’s even a quick See AROUND THE BOWL, Page 3
the Alaska nordic skier January 2017 ANCHORAGE 3
February 18-20 — Sheep Mountain Lodge Saturday, January 14 — Junior Nordic AROUND THE BOWL the Alaska Continued from Page 2 Enjoy two overnights at Sheep Mountain equipment pickup nordic skier Lodge in group cabins. Ski on 24 kilometers Saturday, January 14 — NSAA Backcountry ary 19 for early bird price discounts of groomed non-motorized trails or beyond on Tour — Center Ridge AT/Tele-ski, Turnagain Pass — NSAA member $75; non-member miles of multi-use trails at Sheep Mountain on Saturday, January 14 — ASD High School West EDITOR $85. New this season — Family pric- Saturday and Sunday. On Monday, ski out to Relay, Chugiak Josh Niva Matanuska Glacier along Caribou Creek. A $100 Saturday-Sunday, January 14-15 — ABA Race [email protected] ing! Use Tour of Anchorage Family deposit to hold a spot is required by January 15. Sunday, January 15 — AMH Anchorage Cup – Form for an Adult Price + $25 per Tour leaders — Patti Phillips, 240-3742, and Team Sprint child with a minimum of 2 children Ken DePalma, 440-1562. Tuesday, January 17 — Junior Nordic Session LAYOUT February 18-25 — Denali National Park, under the age 15. Sign up at www. #2 starts Kevin Powell Savage River to Kantishna. This unforgettable anchoragenordicski.com/races/ [email protected] ski tour through Denali Park is supported by Tuesday and Thursday, January 17 and 19 — tour-of-anchorage/. dog teams. Ski 7 to 17 miles per day and stay Ski Jumping Session #2 starts in historic Denali Patrol cabins while dog teams Wednesday, January 18 — ASD High School AD REPRESENTATIVE Get off the beaten trail with haul your gear. Start at Mountain Vista near West Relay – Bartlett Andre Lovett the Park Headquarters and end at Kantishna, NSAA Backcountry Tours Saturday, January 21 — Besh Cup #3 – Homer [email protected] where you will fly out to Healy. Great wholesome Below is a partial schedule of Sunday, January 22 — Besh Cup #4 – Homer [email protected] food, warm cabins, awesome guides! Cost Sunday, January 22 — Biathlon Race #5 upcoming NSAA Backcountry Tours. about $1,800 plus air charter out of Kantishna Stay up to date by visiting www. for about $150. Deposit of $900 required Thursday, January 26 — ASD Middle School Race, Kincaid Park LOCAL EDITORS anchoragenordicski.com/programs/ by January 1. Contact Bob Sutherland at [email protected] or Patti Phillips at Saturday, January 28 — ASD High School backcountry-tours/ or calling the ANCHORAGE [email protected]. Skiathlon, Kincaid Park Josh Niva Tours Hotline at (907) 248-6667, ext. 4. February 25-March 4 — Denali National Saturday, January 28 — NSAA Backcountry [email protected] January 14 — Center Ridge, AT/Tele-ski, Park, McGonagall and Oastler Passes. Fly into Tour — Nancy Lakes Parkway Trails, Mat-Su Turnagain Pass, Kenai Mountains Kantishna, overnight at a park cabin above Valley EAGLE RIVER In Turnagain Pass, ski up Center Ridge past Wonder Lake, then ski over McKinley Bar and Sunday, January 29 — AMH Anchorage Cup – the weather station, climbing 1,000 feet in two Turtle Hill to our basecamp with woodstove Pia’s Classic Ros Singleton miles. The climbing requires you bring skins heated Arctic Oven tents on Cache Creek. Tuesday, January 31 — ASD Middle School [email protected] for your skis. You should also have avalanche Ski north toward Denali the entire tour to Race, Kincaid Park gear (beacon, shovel and probe). The ridge is basecamp. From basecamp, we’ll ski to FAIRBANKS practically flat with some easy ups and downs. McGonagall Pass for grand views of Denali and FEBRUARY Eric Troyer This is a great tour for those who want an the Muldrow and Traleika glaciers, following [email protected] introduction into telemark or AT skiing. Bring Thursday, February 2 — ASD Middle School the footsteps of the historic routes of the Race, Kincaid Park clothing for wind, cold and snow. Meet at 9 a.m. first climbs of Denali. The following day we’ll HOMER Saturday, February 4 — NSAA Backcountry at the Chugach State Park Headquarters parking ski up to Oastler Pass for even more scenery Marylou Burton lot (by the train south of Potter Marsh). Tour and stunning views of Mount Brooks and Tour — Manitoba Mountain AT/Tele-ski, Kenai Mountains leader — Kellin Lang-Gillming, telemarkkid@ surrounding mountains. Dog sleds will haul all JUNEAU Saturday, February 4 — Besh Cup #5, yahoo.com. the gear. Cost about $1,800 plus air charter in Mark Scholten Fairbanks January 28 — Nancy Lakes Parkway Trails, and out of Kantishna for about $350. Contact [email protected] Mat-Su Valley Bob Sutherland at [email protected] Sunday, February 5 — Besh Cup #6, Fairbanks Ski 10 miles of rolling terrain through or Patti Phillips at [email protected]. Sunday, February 5 — Alaska Ski For Women, MAT-SU beautiful forested hills and open frozen swamps March 3-5 — Denali View Chalet Kincaid Park Ed Strabel on the Parkway, Jano Pond and Rhein Lake Enjoy the weekend at a rustic Alaskan lodge Wednesday, February 8 — ASD Middle School [email protected] Loops. There are a couple of steep hills that on Kroto Lake south of Mt. McKinley. Ski eight Race, Kincaid Park can easily be negotiated, if needed. Meet at miles into the lodge with just a daypack. Your Saturday, February 11 — ASD High School SALCHA Carrs Muldoon bakery located at Muldoon and gear and food will be brought in by the chalet Classic Relay Northern Lights at 9 a.m. and then carpool to Jim Ostlind owner on snow machine. Enjoy great views of Sunday, February 12 — Biathlon Race #6 the winter trailhead at Mile 2.2 of the Nancy Denali, fantastic company, wonderful group [email protected] Wednesday, February 15 — ASD Middle Lake Parkway. It can be very cold here, just cuisine, sauna and more skiing on various School Race, Kincaid Park a few miles north of Anchorage, so dress trails in the area. Because the weather is often SEWARD appropriately. Tour leader — Patti Phillips, 240- variable, bring clothing for wind, cold and snow. Friday-Saturday, February 17-18 — ASD High Julie Robinson 3742. Space is limited. A $100 deposit to hold a School, Region IV Championships, Kincaid Park [email protected] February 4 — Manitoba Mountain AT/Tele-ski spot is required by February 15. Tour leader — For more events and details, visit the NSAA and Touring options, Kenai Mountains Karlene Leeper, 440-0049. calendar at www.anchoragenordicski.com/ SOLDOTNA Join us for a fun day telemarking, AT skiing calendar. Penny McClain or touring. This terrain is for beginning to NSAA calendar of events 262-6257 intermediate skiers. If climbing Manitoba Mountain, you’ll need skins for your skis. You JANUARY TALKEETNA should also have avalanche gear (beacon, TBA — First ASD Middle School Practice Starts Chris Mannix shovel, and probe) for the telemark/AT portion Saturday, January 7 — Last day Junior Nordic 733-2427 of skiing. If you’d like to kick and glide instead, Session #1 there are touring options to beautiful Summit Sunday, January 8 — AMH Anchorage Cup – The Alaska Nordic Skier is a Lake (no skins required). Depart from the Hickok Duathlon Chugach State Park Headquarters parking publication representing the nordic lot (by the train south of Potter Marsh). Bring Sunday, January 8 — Biathlon Race #4 ski clubs of Anchorage, Eagle clothing for wind, cold and snow. Tour leader — Monday-Tuesday, January 9-10 — Junior River, Fairbanks, Homer, Juneau, Ken DePalma, 440-1562. Nordic equipment return Mat-Su, Salcha, Seward, Soldotna, Kenai, Talkeetna and Valdez. The Alaska Nordic Skier is published October through April by the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage, Inc.
All rights reserved. © 2016 Articles, letters and advertisements are welcome. Please ensure all names are correct and information is accurate. Submissions may be edited for clarity, content and space limitations. Deadline is the 15th day of the prior month. E-mail [email protected].
On the cover — An estimated 2,000 skiers, snowshoers, sledders and walkers of all ages celebrated winter and the return of more sunlight at the inaugural NSAA Solstice Tour of Trees. Photos by Scott Broadwell and Sara Miller
the Alaska nordic skier 4 ANCHORAGE January 2017
Find the Nordic Skiing Association of Alaska Ski for Women continues Anchorage on Facebook at — its mission, with or without snow facebook.com/anchoragenordicski The 21st annual event puts the fun in powerful fundraising BY JENNY DI GRAPPA own skis. Also, anyone who hasn’t yet regis- ALASKA SKI FOR WOMEN DIRECTOR tered by the February 1 online registration Over the past several years, the weather on deadline can register and pick up their bibs at Super Bowl Sunday has not been ideal for the the bib pick-up. Alaska Ski for Women event. Attendee num- There are four events this year — the timed bers have dropped, and along with it less grant Duathalon will start at 10 — 30 a.m. on an 8K funds have been dispersed to organizations (4.8 mile) course; the timed skate race will also whose focus is on ending the cycle of violence start at 10 — 30 a.m. and is 4K (2.4 miles); the against women and their families, and who timed class race will begin at 11 a.m. and will help women in crisis find positive solutions to also be 4K, timed. Finally, the party wave will a healthier life. While we are hoping for bet- start at 12 — 15 p.m. and is 4K. For those that ter weather and lots more snow in 2017, we are aren’t familiar, the party wave is for those who fortunate to have a snowmaking system at Kin- are out to have fun on the trails and it is un- caid Park that was designed and manufactured timed. Prizes will be awarded to the top three by TechnoAlpin in Bolzano, Italy. Conditions skiers in each of the timed events. permitting, there will be snow for the event on The costume contest is the greatest part of Sunday, February 5, even if you might not see the Alaska Ski for Women. Hundreds of women your favorite white stuff outside your front door each year dress up in elaborate costumes, that morning. many of them taking between several months to a year to put together. We encourage all of our participants to dress up and participate in the Mardi Gras of the North costume contest! Contest will take place from 11 — 30 a.m.-noon. Amazing prizes will be awarded to the best team and best dressed individual. New this year — A champagne reception will be held in the chalet along with the silent auction! Come check out all of the great items that have been generously donated to our auc- tion including sports equipment, hotel stays, trips and more! For those that do not own kick wax or would prefer some help, bring your skis to the wax tent from 9-11 — 30 a.m. on race day where high school ski team members will apply it for you to give you the extra kick you need to win your race. The Ski for Women event is the first of a PHOTO BY JAN HAZEN series of four events for women to earn their There are four options to register for the 2017 patch in Alaska’s Triple Patch program. The Alaska Ski for Women event — program provides a classy, distinctive patch 1) Sign up online now through February 1 at awarded to women and girls who complete www.anchoragenordicski.com/events/alaska- three of the four designated sporting events in ski-for-women/. one calendar year — Ski for Women, Bike for 2) Print and mail in your paper registration. Women, Run for Women and the Gold Nug- Form can be found on the online registration get Triathlon. Ski for Women is the only event page. in the series where you can participate in an 3) Late registration takes place at nib-pick untimed event (the party wave) and still count up on February 3 at REI from noon-7 — 30 p.m. towards your triple patch. 4) Race day late registration from 9-11 a.m. Parking — We always suggest that partici- Racers who sign up on race day can only par- pants carpool when possible. There is limited ticipate in the untimed party wave event. parking at the chalet and the outer lots and There is a minimum suggested donation they fill up early. It is best to park at Kincaid of $35 to participate, however we encourage Elementary. Premier Tours will provide coach participants to give generously, as 100 percent buses that will whisk you and your skis from of the proceeds from the event are granted to the school to the chalet. Buses start running at nonprofit organizations that are working to 9 a.m. and continue until 1 — 30 p.m. help stop domestic violence. Special this year, Finally, we could not put on such a fabulous the first 115 registrants who donate $50 or more event without the help of our sponsors. We will receive a race entry plus an awesome Ski would like to thank our current 2017 sponsors for Women print buff. — Anchorage Women’s Clinic, Great Harvest As mentioned, bib pick-up will again take Bread Company and Premier Alaska Tours, place at REI in Anchorage from noon-7 — 30 who are our $2,500 Silver Sponsors. We would p.m. on February 3. (Please note bib-pick up is also like to thank our $1,000 Bronze Sponsors, only one day this year.) Registrants can pick up Moose’s Tooth and Bear Tooth. their bib, buy this year’s Ski for Women mer- Learn more or sign up today at www.an- chandise, as well as rent skis from REI for a choragenordicski.com/events/alaska-ski-for- discounted rate for those who don’t own their women/.
the Alaska nordic skier January 2017 ANCHORAGE 5 NSAA Jumping program begins season with (snow) guns blazing BY KAREN COMPTON company lost our contact information! Just when they thought it couldn’t As it happens, the snow cat operator get any worse, it did. The 2016 Alaska for Hilltop was driving by the truck- Ski Jumping/Nordic Combined Junior ing yard and saw the snow gun sitting Nationals team hadn’t jumped their there. He texted me a photo — “Is K40 or K65 at all last winter. There this your gun?!?” Then he pulled it the just wasn’t enough snow to open the final 30 miles to the ski jumps. hills. So they showed up in Salisbury, Next, of course, we had to learn Connecticut, in February hoping to how to use it. Hilltop’s Operations get a few days of training in before the Department trained us and has spent national championships. Suddenly it many, many hours troubleshooting was 60 degrees and raining. That hill our system and getting us out of jams. melted and training was cancelled. In Our all-volunteer snowmaking crew the end, the Alaska team took three has been undaunted by the challeng- jumps — one practice and two compe- es of working on steep slopes with tition — all season. high pressure water, 480v 3-phase What a difference a year makes! electricity, propane weed burners, The ability to jump all summer means negative temperatures and all-night these kids have already made hun- shifts. dreds of jumps by the end of Septem- None of this would have been pos- ber. And this winter, despite meager sible without the generous support snowfall, the Karl Eid jumps are open PHOTO BY VIVIENNE MURRAY from Hilltop Ski Area, GCI, Alaska thanks entirely to a new snow gun NSAA Jumping Program’s Karen Compton and jumping coach Natasha Mattoon Ski Educational Foundation, the Lan- and the help and generosity of many celebrate as volunteer Tom Smith fires up the snow gun for the first time. des Foundation and the Anchorage individuals. It really does take a vil- Then we raised money to upgrade In the end, a jumping dad from Downtown Rotary. Kids are jumping lage. our electric to power the snow gun. Eau Claire pulled the snow gun to this winter because of your help, and First, the Flying Eagles Jump- The final problem — how do we get Grand Rapids, Minnesota, on his way for that we are deeply grateful – es- ing Club in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, this 1,000-pound snow gun 3,000 miles to Coleraine for ski jumping. There it pecially this year’s Junior Nationals agreed to sell us their old snow gun to Alaska? TOTE agreed to donate waited two months for an empty spot team! for a great price. Then Hilltop Ski maritime shipping from Tacoma to on a Minn-Alaska Transport truck Learn more about NSAA’s Ski Jumping program at Area agreed to let us tap into their Anchorage but it would cost $3,000 to headed over the Alcan to Palmer. www.anchoragenordicski.com/ski-jumping/. water system if we paid for upgrades. truck it on a flatbed to Tacoma. By the time it arrived, the trucking
Thank you, NSAA + Anchorage Parks & Recreation! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALCHEMY ORTHOTICS & PROSTHETICS SOLSTICE TREE TOUR 1ST PLACE WINNER!
Solstice Tour of Trees is one more reason to love winter! Alaska Music & Sound / The Horn Doctor Music Store Corner of 10th & Ingra, Anchorage www.horndoc.com
Alchemy You should see what we do for our day job!
Check us out at: alchemyak.com • facebook.com/alchemyak/ (907) 562-0560 • [email protected]
the Alaska nordic skier 6 January 2017
P.O. Box 44, Homer, Alaska 99603 Kachemak Nordic Ski Club kachemaknordicskiclub.org [email protected] Homer, Alaska
BOARD OF DIRECTORS New club president thankful for volunteers, opportunities Jan Spurkland Richard Burton Mike Gracz Fritz Creek Skier / KNSC President Stacey Buckelew A few of you may know me as Fritz Creek Skier, and er. Based on current membership levels and the early-sea- Glenn Seaman now Fritz has a new role to fill, president of KNSC. He son activity at the Lookout Mountain Trail System, it looks Derek Bynagle Jasmine Maurer cannot express enough appreciation and admiration for like you do, too! That trail system at Lookout Mountain is Christine Anderson the outgoing president, Jan Spurkland, for his outstanding a gem in the state and KNSC extends a warm welcome to Jason Neely abilities and contributions. Fritz is really glad that Jan will the many out-of-town visitors who travel here to enjoy the Annie Ridgely, Administrative Assistant remain on the board of directors to help ease the transi- superb conditions made possible by our dedicated crew. Caleb Rauch, Student Intern tion. Which hopefully should be so smooth that no one will I hope to keep that crew happy and well-supplied and to notice. continue promoting Nordic skiing in the Kachemak Bay COMMITTEES/EVENTS I also want to thank Jasmine Maurer, Jason Neely and area. Lookout Mountain Ski Trails Mike Byerly Christine Andersen, our new secretary, for stepping up The latest way to promote skiing here has been to Lower Baycrest Ski Trails; Snowshoe Trails; to fill vacancies on the board, and to express gratitude to install trailcams at the Lookout Mountain and McNeil Friday Night Lights; Grooming Equipment Bob Glen, who has agreed to become our new equipment Canyon systems. Hopefully by the time you read this, you Dave Brann committee chairman. I look forward to working with this can have grooming tracked in real time at skitrails.info. Upper Baycrest Ski Trails; Marathon Trail fine team to help keep the club running smoothly. See the accompanying article and happy skiing! Committee Alan Parks I also really appreciate the hard work that many vol- unteers over many years have given to create the really McNeil/Eveline Ski Trails Ginger Johnson (Chair) great skiing opportunities that we now enjoy around Hom- Derek Stonorov (McNeil Grooming) Dave Brann (Eveline Grooming) race development clinic. Holly last Kachemak Nordic Ski Development; Ski AROUND joined KNSC, Homer Women’s Nor- Your Age; Besh Cup Races; Homer Epic 100 dic, Kachemak Nordic Race Develop- Jan Spurkland THE BAY ment and ski enthusiasts from other Junior Nordic Carlin Rauch Chili Cook-Off, January 14 Kenai Peninsula areas for dry land training in fall 2015. This season, the Homer Women’s Nordic at Grace Ridge Brewery Stacey Buckelew What better way to spend a frosty snow is back and Holly will be, too! Get your skis ready and stay tuned Webmaster January evening than eating chili and Richard Burton sampling beer? to the next issue of the Alaska Nordic Skier newsletter and the KNSC Face- Alaska Nordic Skier Newsletter Grace Ridge Brewery is hosting a Marylou Burton chili cook-off from 5-6 — 30 p.m. on book page for details. Snow Machine Maintenance January 14, with all proceeds going to Upcoming ski events and Bill Hague support KNSC programs and trails. Trail Signs rent for any kids who need gear. Kid clinics! To sign up to enter your prize chili, January 7 — Junior Nordic Coaching Clinic, Jennifer Edwards rental equipment (boots and either contact Sheri at 399-5200 or Jasmine Noon-2 p.m. Lookout Mountain Ski Area. Winter Gear & Ski Swap at 299-6975. Chili should be about a skate or classic skis) is only $25 for This clinic provides youth and junior coaching Mike Illg crockpot amount. the entire season! skills and drills, and basic age-appropriate techniques to develop young skiers and ensure Kachemak Ski for Women & Haven House Tickets for this tasty fundraiser are Kris Holdereid Friday Night Lights – they have fun! This clinic is free and open to any $10 each and can be purchased at the 6-8 p m. . January 20, individuals interested in helping with the KNSC Wine & Cheese/Wooden Ski Tour door. Beer tasting is included for folks Junior Nordic Program. No experience required! Kevin & Jeanne Walker location TBA For questions — [email protected]. 21 and over but all ages are welcome. Kachemak Nordic Ski Marathon Bring out your skis or snowshoes January 8 — Season 2 for KNSC women’s Go skiing and then come and enjoy Deland Anderson and come enjoy this unique ski ski group (Homer Women’s Nordic) begins. a warm bowl of chili and sample Visit homerwomensnordic.com or the Homer Sea to Ski Triathlon experience for all ages and abilities. Grace Brewery’s beer. Women’s Nordic’ Facebook page for details. Kevin & Jeannie Walker Torches will be lit from 6-8 p.m. on January 22 — Beginner Skate Ski Clinic, 10 Winter Backcountry Film Festival Ski and Winter Friday. Headlamps, glowsticks and a.m.-noon, Lookout Mountain Ski Area. Led Dan Del Missier Gear Swap #2 – 5 — 30 other light-up devices are encour- by KNSC coaches, this clinic is for individuals aged. There will be a warming fire who have no ski or limited ski experience or are p m. . January 19 at Homer looking for more instruction on the basics. $25 High School Commons and hot chocolate. clinic fee. Online registration or visit the link Looking for Nordic ski gear? Have Please leave your dogs at home! through the KNSC website or KNSC Facebook Find the your kids outgrown their boots? Do Dogs and nighttime skiing/snow- page — goo.gl/forms/9LOvgWCpxPkymEs83 January 22 — Intermediate Skate Ski Clinic, 1-3 Nordic Skiing Association you want to treat yourself to a new set shoeing on narrow trails is not a p.m., Lookout Mountain Ski Area. Led by KNSC of Anchorage of skis or poles? Or do you have some good combination! Do your dogs and coaches, this clinic is for individuals who have things to get rid of? The Homer Com- everyone else a favor and leave them mastered the beginner skate ski movement on Facebook at — munity Recreation Ski Swap takes at home. and are looking to refine their technique and facebook.com/ The “Night Lights” is a season increase efficiency on varied terrain. $25 clinic place in the Homer High School Com- fee. Online registration or visit the link through mons in January for Ski Swap #2. highlight for many families. The cost the KNSC website or KNSC Facebook page — anchoragenordicski Winter clothing, winter gear, skates, is only $10/member or $20/non-mem- goo.gl/forms/O5my7e6QIukQwOIq2 snowboards and of course skis are all bers (if you haven’t yet renewed your available to sell, trade and purchase. membership, this would be a good Please note that there is no charge time). With the full moon on January to sell or swap but participants are 23 and the trail lit by 100 torches, this asked to be responsible for displaying, event is not to be missed! pricing and removing their unsold Welcoming Holly Brooks items. back to Homer! Our Junior Nordic Program will KNSC is enthusiastic about wel- also be there at the swap. You can Advertise here and your business can coming two-time Olympic cross-coun- sign up for the upcoming season and reach skiers across the state. try skier Holly Brooks back to Homer renew your membership at their [email protected] in February for a ski coaching and table. There will be skis and boots to
the Alaska nordic skier KACHEMAK January 2017 7 Ken Jones – The ski trails are lonely without him BY GLENN SEAMAN Ken again, and in a calm, friendly and season his 70-year-old legs would be KNSC and the entire Homer com- persuasive way he made his argu- kicking butt on my 60-year-old legs. munity are mourning the loss of Ken ment again. I began to think more He was in excellent shape, as I hope I Jones, who died last month in a kaya- rationally and soon gave in, never will be at 70. king accident. to take my dogs on the upper trails Ken was always friendly and I met Ken for the first time on again. welcoming. Homer is a definite ski Homer’s ski trails, maybe 12 years We became friends, and both being community – we know most people ago. I was relatively new to town avid skiers we often saw each other on the trails and everyone you see and was skiing with my dogs up the on the trials. After much debate, will return a smile and say “Hi!” as “Far Side” heading to the Sunset the club later approved a trail policy you ski by. If not, they are usually Loop. Ken gave me a good “talk” on designating select trails for skiers from out of town or new to the area. why dogs should not be on this trail with dogs, while keeping other trails Ken was very much a part of this ski and the likely dangers to other ski- like upper Baycrest dog-free. Ken and community and it is going to be really ers. Like many newcomers might, I I would later become better friends tough not seeing that unassuming, objected and stood up for my “rights,” as we learned we had many friends in modest and genuinely friendly guy on exclaiming that the club did not have common. the trails. a policy or rules that prohibited this. Like myself, Ken often skied alone, The skiing on the Lookout Trails Through all this, Ken remained calm presumably enjoying the benefits of a these last few weeks has been excel- and diplomatic and after time I began good workout, lost in thought solving lent – the best we’ve had this early to appreciate the logic in words ... his personal and worldly problems, or uncommon to see a tall, slender skier in the season for years. There’s only cause. just enjoying the beauty and seren- plowing seemingly effortlessly up the been one thing missing and that’s I continued to ski with my dog on ity of nature. Ken was an excellent hill on the upper Baycrest or Lookout Ken. the lower Baycrest and decided to yet modest skier. About 10 years my trails. I might nudge him a little bit KNSC extends its condolences to make another quick jaunt up to Sun- senior, he might be described as an early in the season due to a good base his wife Sara, their children and their set, one of my favorite trails. I ran into animal on the ski trails. It was not from active fall biking, but by mid- extended family. We miss him, too. Trail cams and real-time grooming BY FRITZ CREEK SKIER at our maintenance buildings, but could be installed feedback on their usefulness. The trackers turn on The first trail cam picture from the McNeil Trail anywhere, because they also can run on batteries automatically when the groomer starts the machine. System was taken at 2 — 53 p.m. November 17 as with or without solar power. The specifications say They are like cell phones; they use GPS satellites snow was falling. The second camera was installed that they will take pictures down to 4 below but they and the cell network to transmit their location. As two days later at the Lookout Mountain trail system, were put to the test in December and quit at around long as the machine is running near the mapped a week after skiing had begun there. These cameras minus 2. However, when it warms back up they are trail system, the trackers will transmit location use the cell network to email pictures to our website back on the job. You couldn’t expect much more from information to skitrails.info over the cell network. – kachemaknordicskiclub.org/category/lookout/ or your good friend at the trailhead (unless you live in That means that you can comfortably browse the …/mcneil/ – every hour, 9-5. the Interior, but hey, we’re in Homer for a reason, web while sipping hot coffee at the breakfast table to I thank our heroic volunteer webmaster, Richard right?!). see that a hardworking volunteer is out there mak- Burton, for his efforts in making this possible. The By the time you read this, our new real-time ing beautiful skiing possible, right now! Just like the cameras are exactly like a good friend with a cell trackers should be installed on our primary trail- trail cams, they are like having good friends who live phone who texts you a picture of the trail every hour grooming machines and be tracking grooming on each trail system reliably reporting to you exactly during daylight. These rugged cameras are rela- progress at the website — skitrails.info. The service when the trails are being groomed. tively inexpensive to purchase and the data plans plans for three trackers are pretty expensive for a What are you waiting for? Get out there and go are cheap. The cameras are plugged into AC power small club, so we will definitely be looking for your skiing, the trails are ready! Thank your groomers!
ANCHORAGE NSAA Sponsor Spotlight — Hartman Orthodontics Another season of Anchorage schools. Schools had bib shortages, School District (ASD) Nordic racing some bibs were illegible, and many has started. There’s nothing cooler teams did not have funds to purchase than seeing middle and high school new ones. Without a complete set, skiers infiltrate our community trails! race day becomes challenging for The adult size 7th grader dressed in coaches, parents and the timing staff. Carhartts and a hoody barrels down With new bibs for school ski teams, the trail with a smile from ear to ear. our races are now better organized Studies show introducing competitive and officiated. sports to kids at this age increases We appreciate Hartman Ortho- self-esteem and often times creates dontics’ commitment to helping us a lifelong passion for healthy living promote healthy living and outdoor and the desire to achieve more in life. enthusiasts. NSAA strives for continu- Hartman Orthodontics has played ous improvement including finding a huge part in reaching this goal by opportunities to partner with those as supporting our local schools’ Nordic passionate about our schools, sports teams. other funds, which has already signif- project. Thank you to our Nordic sup- and community. We are grateful to Support from local businesses icantly enhanced school competition. porters! work with Dr. Hartman and his staff is essential to keeping Anchorage In addition to the Hartman Orthodon- School sports have very limited to support our school racers as a long- skiing. Recently, Dr. Brian Hartman tics donation, Alaska Ski Education budgets which extend to Nordic ski- term investment in our youth, which generously contributed towards new Foundation as well as Alaska Arts ing. Timing officials identified a need creates lifelong passions for healthy ASD racing bibs along with several and Health PTSA contributed to the for a complete set of race bids for all living and activity.
the Alaska nordic skier 8 ANCHORAGE January 2017 A special Solstice celebration Bright trees, happy people at NSAA’s inaugural Solstice Tour of Trees An estimated 2,000 attendees skied, walked in boots or snowshoes, and rode in sleds around the short Mize Loop at Kincaid Park to cele- brate winter, Solstice, community and holiday trees at the NSAA’s first Sol- stice Tour of Trees. This was a unique opportunity for skiers and non-skiers of all ages to share a trail that is typi- cally ski-only in the winter. Sixteen trees were decorated by Anchorage-area businesses and or- ganizations, lighting up the trail with bright, colorful lights and creative designs. Alchemy Orthotics & Pros- thetics was voted the best tree, fol- lowed by the tree decorated by Alaska Music & Sound. The event was a true winter cele- bration. There were two burn barrels, PHOTOS BY SCOTT BROADWELL AND SARA MILLER s’mores fixings, hot chocolate, as well as 40 demo skis that were checked out year. NSAA also thanks all tree spon- & Associates, LLC; Pacific North- ordic, Labrador Tea, Kaladi Brothers multiple times by new skiers. sors — Alaska Internal Medicine & ern Academy; Resource Data Inc.; Coffee, Dr Veerman of 907DentSpa, NSAA thanks all of the people Pediatrics; Alaska Music & Sound, Skinny Raven Sports; Snow Blossom South High School Ski Team, Service who attended and volunteered for Home of the Horn Doctor; Alchemy Acupuncture LLC/Arbonne; and the High School Ski Team and Anchorage the event. This year’s unexpect- Orthotics & Prosthetics; BP Explora- West High School Ski Team. NSAA Parks & Recreation. edly large gathering set the bar for tion Alaska Inc.; Dillon & Findley PC; also appreciates event partners CRW a bigger and better celebration next Geneva Woods Birth Center; Barber Engineering Group, Skiku/NANAN- Popularity and participation grow for NSAA Biathlon programs Discover Land’s End… BY TOM GRENIER Around 20 racers competed in the first biathlon races of the season on December 11 at the Kincaid Park biathlon range. The record turnout was It’s just the beginning partially buoyed by participants in early winter Eagle Eyes Biathlon classes trying out new skills in their first biathlon race. Fall Eagle Eyes classes all filled to capacity this year, reflecting a growing interest in the ski community for biathlon. Monthly range safety classes are scheduled throughout the winter for skiers Yes. This is the famed end of the road, and just interested in trying biathlon. Eagle Eyes clinics and classes for late winter the beginning of your Alaska adventures. and spring will be announced in early January. For more information, visit the NSAA Biathlon program website at www.anchoragenordicski.com/biathlon/. Quite simply, the Homer area has some of the most spectacular ski trails in Alaska. Not only are they designed for novice and expert alike, but they feature some of the most jaw-dropping views and scenic beauty found anywhere.
...just the beginning www.lands-end-resort.com PHOTO BY KRISTEN BIERMA Or call for reservations: 1-907-235-0400 Eagle Eyes alumni Alex Kilby and Eagle Eyes coach Justin Carpenter duel in a shooting stage in the first biathlon race of the season. Kilby will represent Alaska at the U.S. Team Trials for the World Youth/ Junior Biathlon Championships later this month. LE NSAA 5x7 Ad2.indd 1 12/21/16 11:11 AM
the alaSKa nordic skier January 2017 STATEWIDE 9 Valdez’s Qaniq Challenge revamps for third year BY LEX TREINEN waterfront bar/restaurant The Fat The flagship Valdez Nordic race, Mermaid. Previous year’s banquets the Qaniq Challenge, is back for its may or may not have ended with all of third annual weekend on January the racers tearing up the dance floor. 14-15 with some exciting changes. The Furthermore, the techniques and two-day race is the brainchild of Val- locations will be swapped from previ- dez director of Parks and Recreation ous years, with a classic race Satur- Darryl Verfaillie, and has attracted day at Old Trap Range and a skate some of the top Alaska skiers in the pursuit start race on the downtown previous two years. They sought a Mineral Creek trails on Sunday. payout for a podium finish from the Verfaillie said that more than try- $10,000 prize purse (the second-larg- ing to attract a huge quantity of rac- est prize payout in the country behind ers he is trying to increase the value the American Birkebeiner). This of the experience. “We might have year’s race will see changes to both only 40 racers, but if we get 800,000 the payout and race format. views on Facebook and the internet PHOTO BY KRYSTAL MOULTON After getting input from the racers, Racers begin the Day 2 mass start skate race at the Old Trap Lodge off of the about how fun and exciting the race Verfaillie decided to retool the prize Richardson Highway. is, we will hopefully keep growing this distribution and pay prize money all thing,” he said. the way down to 10th place. With just advance, but we realized that the organizers are touting the experience “It’s a challenge just to get down over 30 starters last year, the odds most important thing is to get a core of the race over the headline-grab- here no matter how you do it,” he for getting a piece of the pie seems of racers excited to race every year,” bing prize money. This year, the race added. “People came last year by car, pretty good, especially with many of said Verfaillie. “For a lot of Outsiders, will include a kids’ competition as well plane and ferry, but no matter what the top Alaska racers committed to it’s a one-and-done but we want to get as a free ski clinic hosted by some of I hope they came away with good SuperTour races in the Lower 48 and a good group of Valdez skiers and An- the previous years’ top finishers from memories. We just want you to know elsewhere. chorage skiers and focus on building the APU Nordic Ski Center. The race that it’s worth the challenge.” “It’s hard for some of the top ski- from the ground up.” entry also includes a family friendly Find more information and register at www. ers to commit to things like this in As part of this new approach, Qaniq after-party and awards banquet at the Qaniqchallenge.com. A thank you letter to Alaska’s Nordic ski community BY ANDREW KASTNING a few days, working groups formed, a website and We want to give a special thanks to the many UAA Nordic Ski Team Coach petition were started, and a rally to save skiing people and organizations that helped spread the The holiday season is a wonderful time to give was planned. Over 5,000 people from 31 countries, word and support our ski programs. They include thanks to what you have, hold your family close 45 U.S. states and many communities all across Jim Renkert, Andre Horton, Tobias Schwoerer, and cherish the simple things in life. The UAA Ski Alaska signed the petition. In the days prior to the Kjersti Von Wichman, Alex Von Wichman, Charlie Team felt the warmth and love of the ski communi- Board of Regents meeting on November 10, an Renfro, Dave Knutsen, Edda Mutter, Bill Spen- ty early this winter when the decision to eliminate email was being sent on our behalf about every cer, Lynn Spencer, Dylan Watts, Chris Hodel and college skiing from the University of Alaska System two minutes! One regent even said that this issue Holly Brooks, and the Nordic Skiing Association of was reversed by President Jim Johnsen. For that, received far more feedback than any other issue Anchorage for pulling extra hard and organizing we offer sincere appreciation and a debt of grati- that UA has faced. the fight. tude for all those who called and wrote the Board UAA’s coaching staff had been raising the alarm It was awe-inspiring to be a part of this move- of Regents, signed the petition and came to bat for and doing all we could since last spring. We were ment and a true testament to the quality individu- skiing in Alaska. out of gas by the time we were pulled out of class- als this community holds. We still have battles to On October 27, we were given the news that rooms and off the Hillside ski trails to learn the win with garnering more private funding, but at UAA and UAF would no longer sponsor the sport devastating news. Without the support of you, our least we have a pathway forward, and for that, cur- of men’s and women’s skiing if a waiver to the “10 wonderful ski community, Alaska would have lost a rent, past and future Seawolf skiers say THANK Team” rule could be granted by the NCAA. Within big piece of its identity. YOU! Top Alaska talents kick off Besh Cup series BY LAURI BASSETT Cup skier. opportunities to move off the heavily seconds of each other. CROSS COUNTRY ALASKA In the classic technique event, APU skied man-made snow loop. While all Cross Country Alaska takes its Just before Christmas, the notori- skiers swept the top three positions skiers are grateful for the man-made show on the road in January (Sol- ously long and complicated sprint in both the men’s and women’s finals. snow, they were happy to venture dotna) and in February (Fairbanks). day kicked off the ConocoPhillips Reese Hanneman edged his brother to Elliott’s Climb, Margaux’s Loop January 18 is the deadline to register Besh Cup race series at Kincaid Park Logan for the overall men’s crown. and parts of the challenging Lekish online for ConocoPhillips Besh Cups in Anchorage. The format featured Tyler Kornfield finished third for the trails. In the men’s race, Scott Pat- 3 & 4. That weekend of racing on a qualifying race in the morning APU trio. On the women’s side, Re- terson took men an early lead with January 21 & 22 will feature another was followed by an elimination style becca Rorabaugh led teammates Jes- a comfortable gap between a couple sprint event, this time in the freestyle competition in the afternoon. The U18 sica Yeaton and Lauren Fritz across groups of top skiers. The crowd discipline; and it will include an inter- and older age groups started with the line. In the U16 age division, Zan- witnessed an exciting second- and val start race. At the February race, the top 30 skiers from the qualifying den McMullen (APU) won the male third-place finish between senior Cross Country Alaska will announce race who battled their way through race and Fairbanks XC (FXC) skier skier Reese Hanneman and 16 year- the skiers who qualified to make quarterfinals and semifinals; down Kaya Ratzlaff earned the victory on old skier Gus Schumacher. Near the Team Alaska which will compete at to the top six for the day. The range the female side. Rudy Schumacher end, Schumacher had a small lead, Junior National Championships in of competitors for the men’s final earned the sprint victory for the male but Hanneman found enough gas in March in Lake Placid, New York. ranged from a high school skier, an U14s, while Quincy Donley captured his tank for silver. APU skiers Jes- For more information about up- NCAA skier, skiers who have been on the female U14 title. Both skiers train sica Yeaton, Becca Rorabaugh and coming races or to register, please the podium at the U.S. SuperTour and with Alaska Winter Stars. Rosie Frankowski swept the podium visit the Cross Country Alaska web Senior Nationals, as well as a World The distance race gave skiers arriving at the finish line within five page at www.crosscountryalaska.org.
the Alaska nordic skier 10 January 2017 1150 S. Colony Way, Suite 3 Palmer, Alaska 99645 Mat-Su Ski Club (907) 745-SKIS WASILLA, ALASKA www.matsuski.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AROUND PRESIDENT THE VALLEY Hans Hill VICE PRESIDENT I must make a confession, while I Dave Musgrave love Nordic Skiing, if I were to have to TREASURER choose just one winter sport to do the Maritt Youngblood rest of my days, it would be backcoun- SECRETARY try skiing. Being in the mountains, Mike Norton choosing your path (and destiny, in BOARD MEMBERS some regards) and attempting to Gene Backus become connected to this stratum we Dave Freer call snow, very few things pique my Natalie King enjoyment meter like backcountry. Jeff Kase That is not so say a day skate ski- Lucas Parker ing on Archangel Valley Road with Ed Strabel bluebird skies, 25 degrees and fresh Mark Strabel corduroy doesn’t scream bliss – it Chris Tomsen does. Ashley Wise But the division between these two ADMINISTRATOR sports is really only a modern day PHOTO BY HANS HILL Tammy Sipos The Nyce family pauses to enjoy the view of Kachemak Bay. advent. Several hundred years ago, have gotten the best of me. my boots fell out of my pack at about there was little difference between punch card, $50; 10 punch card, $90; So Sunday morning-ish we start- 1,000’ without my notice requiring me Nordic skiing and backcountry skiing. Unlimited card, $150; Walk-on price, ed heading up the trail (I use the to return in the night to retrieve it … It wasn’t until the creation of groomed $12 cash. definition loosely), beginning at sea So I will return to my couple-times- trails that a true distinction was born. Mat-Su Ski Club members who do- level with a few inches of snow on the a-week Nordic skis hoping to be in And while a large number differ- nate eight hours of volunteer time get ground. The trail is a series of points better shape the next time the back- ences exist between the sports now free sessions. Session postponements marked by flagging that delineate country ski opportunity arises. (ideal conditions, skis, number of and change of venue notices will be on the path of least resistance and while —By Hans Hill, MSSC President dirtbags participating in the sport) as our website and Facebook page. You it was mostly devoid of brush, there of late the number one difference for can register at www.matsuski.org. were many fallen trees to climb over/ Grooming in full swing me is this — how easily can I get out As of writing this, our groom- dive under. The terrain, obstacles and High school race volunteers and do it. Most of you who read this ing team is keeping Independence snow cover dictated that the first part Just short of the Super Bowl, the section probably recall that I have a Mine and Archangel in tip-top shape. of today’s objective would be a boot- best sports action to see in person is young one who is turning 2 very soon With the use of our new Centaur pack with our ski gear strapped to our high school Nordic racing! Good news and although he has shown a great groomer, some of the best skiing so backs. — the MSSC is assisting in hosting affinity for my avalanche shovel, I far this season has been occurring in Fast forward to about 1,500 feet of a number of high school races this think it is safe to say he isn’t very Hatcher Pass. So if you are one of the elevation, I am beginning to feel a bit season at GPRA. And what better backcountry compliant. So when the many that has been enjoying these less confident about my choice. Hav- way of putting yourself right in the stars align and an opportunity exists trails, consider purchasing a trail pin ing found my appropriate spot, in the action than volunteering for a race. for me to head into the mountains, I through our website to show your rear of the group, and having had the This month and next the club will seize the day! support to the MSSC and its many overexerted metallic taste creep into need a number of volunteers to help That opportunity found its way to volunteer groomers. my mouth a few times already, the put on these events. It truly is a great me a bit ago in the form of a trip to If you do frequent the Archangel amount of time that the front group and fun experience, if you have not Homer. Occasionally our friends with area, you may notice a new addition (aka everyone else) had to wait for me done it before. Please reach out to the a cabin across Kachemak Bay invite near the gate. Our very own Jeff Kase to catch up was verging on the line club via [email protected] if you are us to their private piece of paradise has created, tested and calibrated a where those persons begin to regret interested in helping. near Seldovia, but this time with nice very interesting device. It is designed bringing my slow butt along. At this little caveat — “Bring your skis, we to remove dog feces from the trail. Serenity Falls Hut trip point we swapped out our boots for ski might go skiing.” At first I dismissed Feel free to try the device out for One thing I didn’t address earlier in gear and began skinning to our final this portion of the invite knowing that yourself. I am sure the next skier who my piece on backcountry skiing was destination of a peak at about 3,200 dealing with a toddler in a hazard- comes behind you will appreciate it. the couple unique opportunities in AK feet. filled environment like someone’s re- to do hut trips. Being a MSSC mem- The weather was nothing less than mote cabin may be too overwhelming Adult ski lessons ber affords you that rare opportunity. spectacular and the views … were if one of said child’s parents were to There are many people in this Each season, the club reserves the nothing less than spectacular. It was head up the mountain for the day. But world that have the ability to effective- Serenity Falls Hut near Eklutna Lake one of those vistas that trigger this SWMBO (She Who Must Be Obeyed, ly teach, I however can barely teach for a weekend and allows a select aka gracious wifey) insisted that I thought, “I will remember this image my dog to sit. Thankfully I am not number to ski to the hut and stay bring my ski gear. ‘til the end of my days.” instructing the club’s adult lessons, the night and ski back the following This probably is a good spot to men- We ended up switching the gear but our very own and very talented day. Our super-volunteer and board tion that I have very few backcountry into descent mode and picking our Darryl Farrens is. These lessons are member Ed Strabel will groom the days that have occurred in the last way to the spot where our hiking for those of you who are interested in trail prior to the event and then haul two seasons, probably because of boots were left. With the fading light improving your technique and possi- all of your overnight gear to the hut some lame excuse … like having a and gorgeous sunset, we continued bly becoming a faster skier. via snowmachine, making for a super child. Nevertheless, I have attempted the march back to the cabin, arriving Dates and times are — 6-7 — 15 enjoyable ski to the hut. Believe me, to stay in some resemblance of “in in the dark via headlight, exhausted p.m. Mondays — December 5-Febru- you want to have this experience. The shape,” not so much beach-bod, but (at least I was). ary 27; 6-7 — 15 p.m. Wednesdays — trip will occur on March 11-12. Please more like dad-bod. I had scaled a Even though the downhill skiing December 7-March 1; 10-11 — 15 a.m. email the club at info@matsuski. number of mountains over the last was unremarkable, the effort, the en- Saturdays — December 10-Februray org if you are interested, as space is hunting season and I may have even vironment, the views and the friends 25. All sessions are scheduled for the limited. started to consider myself worthy to made it a fantastic day to remember, Government Peak Recreation Area, ski with this group, but my ego may even more so given the fact that one of weather-dependent. Fees are — 5
the Alaska nordic skier January 2017 11
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 wildapricot. org.
BOARD MEMBERS Great snow conditions have brought the skiers PRESIDENT out to Beach Lake Trails. Jason Dennis In this photo, Eagle [email protected] River Masters skiers are led by Katie Rehm, far SECRETARY right, in an early season Meg Stehn training session. Eagle meg.stehn@gmail .com River Masters meets TRAILS 6 — 30-8 p.m. Tuesday Jim Kazuba and Thursday at the kaszuba@mtaonline net. Beach Lake Trails chalet. Annette Brion For more information, babrion@hotmail .com e-mail Kathleen.Rehm@ gmail.com or visit www. TREASURER alaskanordicracing.org/ Bob Stehn masters.html. bob.stehn@gmail .com Steve Wilson PHOTO BY ROS SINGLETON big.su.tka@gmail .com
VICE PRESIDENT/RACING Mike Beiersgrohslein mbeiergrohslein@msn .com
JUNIOR NORDIC Will Taygan ski@taygan .com Steve Wilson big .su tka@gmail. .com
NORDIC SKIER NEWSLETTER Rosalyn Singleton Eagle River Skiers Rosalynsingleton2@gmail .com MASTERS Katie Rehm Kathleen rehm@gmail. com. Jason Gray — Where Are Jason@datasuns .com
They Now? Canyon. Needless to say, sleep was typically the deprived factor. After graduating from Mines in Jackie Klecka spring 2016 with a B.S. in Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, I packed all As with every high schooler’s goal, my belongings in my car and road- I was eager to begin a new adventure tripped back home to Eagle River. after graduation in spring 2012. Reluc- My friend from club soccer joined in tant to leave Eagle River’s tight-knit on the journey and we made several community and beautiful hiking trails days stops to explore Yellowstone, and mountains, I booked a one-way Glacier, Teton, Banff and Jasper Na- ticket to Golden, Colorado, to begin tional Parks as we followed the Rocky my freshman year at PHOTO COURTESY OF JACKIE KLECKA Mountains range north. Colorado School of Mines (CSM). Thus, at the time I declared chemical the same pattern as sophomore year; Since then, I have happily begun The college transition was rough as engineering as my major at the end of a balance of schoolwork, soccer, work, my career in Anchorage while living academics were demanding, stressful my freshman year, I simultaneously sleep and social life. Miscellaneous in Eagle River with family. Hiking, and difficult. realized the need to join a sports travel adventures were sprinkled in soccer and cross-country skiing are Additionally, I realized how much team. during school breaks, such as ex- still a fundamental part of my lifestyle I took high school sports for granted, Joining the CSM women’s club soc- ploring Arches National Park, can- with many thanks to the integrated including cross-country running, cer team my sophomore year proved yoneering in Capitol Reef National habits developed in high school sports skiing, track and soccer. The team ca- to be the perfect antidote. It was a Park, downhill skiing in the Rockies, such as cross-country skiing. maraderie, intense workouts, incred- necessary outlet to the enjoyable but visiting friends in Sedona, Arizona, — By Jackie Klecka ible coaches, devoted volunteers, bus rigorous academic load. My remain- and catching a glimpse of the Grand rides, and fun meets – I missed it all. ing three years at Mines followed in More than 100 kids giving 110 #44 Live your life with theirs in mind. percent for skiing fun BY ROS SINGLETON
Will Taygan, Eagle River Jr. Nordic head coach, recently said that there are Together let’s start just over 100 kids currently in program. But that’s just half the story because planning for your virtually every child has a parent skiing with them. family’s future. The Eagle River Jr. Nordic program is a family-oriented program with Jason Dennis Agent parents and kids (and even grandparents) skiing. I’m excited to see families New York Life skiing together; 25 years ago, Jr. Nordic saved me from being a hockey mom Insurance Company 188 W. Northern Lights Blvd. sitting in the bleachers while my son skated below. Suite 1300 Anchorage, AK 99503 After one year of sitting in bleachers, I called a family meeting and asked if (907) 726-7092 Registered Representative offering investments through NYLIFE Securities LLC we could switch to skiing, so all of us could get exercise together. (Member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency. [email protected] Get exercise with your kids or just sign them up for Jr. Nordic! The groups meet from 6 — 45-8 p.m. Monday/Wednesday and Tuesday/Thursday at the Life Insurance. Retirement. Investments. GOOD
Beach Lake Trails chalet. For information, contact [email protected]. SMRU1614160 (Exp.12.31.2016) © 2015 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010
the Alaska nordic skier 12 January 2017
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 Success, support create the possibility of even more Girdwood trails BY DEB ESSEX improve the Girdwood trail system by GIRDWOOD NORDIC SKI CLUB creating non-wetlands trails that can The proposition of building Nordic be utilized year-round. We’ve learned ski trails in the Girdwood Valley has from our first capital project and are been tossed around since the 1960s. proposing a narrower, more user- The Girdwood community even estab- friendly trail system. lished a 10K cross-country ski trail in Currently, this would be a two- 1968-69. In 1969, Girdwood hosted Ju- phase plan with 7.5 kilometers in total. nior Nationals on the Alyeska Racing Trail connectivity is our long-term Trails built by community volunteers, goal with a river route running up the the Anchorage Ski Club and the Army Glacier Creek valley and connecting National Guard. These trails existed to the CAT track. We are in the initial for a decade before fading back into stages of community surveys and the forest. working with expert trail designer Bill Fast forward 20 years — the Mu- Spencer and HDR. Bill has surveyed nicipality of Anchorage Heritage Land the valley, analyzed wetland con- Bank (HLB) commissioned a study to straints and walked possible routes. determine the feasibility of construct- The attached map is the proposed ing Nordic ski trails in Girdwood. That location of the expanded Nordic ski study was completed in 2007 by The trails. Boutet Company and authored by We have a unique perspective of Olympian/trail designer Jim Galanes. how much work and capital funds it See the 2007 Final Study assess- requires to build a trail of this nature. ment map of possible locations for We are presenting this proposal for Nordic ski trails in the Girdwood community feedback and want to hear Valley. HLB’s goal was to develop from you. Please take our five-minute approximately 17 kilometers of Nordic survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/ ski trails within the Glacier Creek/ XB8FBQ6. Winner Creek valleys. The trail would If you reading this in print, please be part of a phased development and go to www.skigirdwood.org and click coordinated with other development the survey link. Also, check out our initiatives. membership page and renew your With positive results from this membership! Girdwood Nordic Ski study, the Girdwood community Club’s Facebook page (www.face- thought the trails could be construct- book.com/Girdwood-Nordic-Ski- ed in 2008. When the dust settled, nei- Club-112569688796600/) also has the ther The Alyeska Resort, Anchorage link. Questions? Please email us — Parks and Recreation-Girdwood, nor [email protected]. the Girdwood Trails Committee had We will present this proposal to the an interest in becoming the operator Girdwood Community at the Land of a new trail system. Use Committee meeting at 7 p.m. After researching successful February 13 in the Girdwood Commu- Nordic club models in Alaska and nity Room. We would love to discuss the Pacific Northwest, the Girdwood this project with you from all perspec- Nordic Ski Club (GNSC) was formed tives! in 2008 to design, construct and oper- NordicSkier2.5x3.75 ate a Nordic multi-use trail system in the Girdwood Valley. The popularity of Nordic skiing, winter biking and hik- ing continues increasing while more GNSC has operated and maintained want to include all user groups – even eGIRDWOOD, Bake ALASKA Shop U.S. alpine resorts offer four-season the system with user-based donations. dogs. The trail would be approxi- trail systems; Alyeska Resort has in- We’ve created an increasing annual mately 3.5 meters wide and similar to creased efforts to develop hiking and membership of approximately 400 the Tour of Anchorage trail and the biking trails around Mt. Alyeska. people and established a solid group of Enchanted Forest in Girdwood. We After unanimous voting outcomes volunteer groomers. are focused on rolling terrain; creat- from Girdwood 20/20, Girdwood Land We’ve hosted UAA and APU ski ing fun and less challenging outings Use Committee (43-0), Girdwood teams for informal races, local ski than the current Nordic Loop; two- Board of Supervisors, and Girdwood, and snow bikes races, summer junior way traffic so trail-users can choose Inc., the HLB Advisory Commission high cross-country running races, and different routes; good line-of-sight for Where granted an ordinance authorizing a Little Bears fundraising races. The biking speed and wildlife avoidance; theBuns areHot, trail is used year-round, including by a trail width that allows for skate and trails easement May 12, 2009. After the Soup many meetings and public forums, the blueberry pickers. skiing and two-way passing, but half isBottomless. other map was the design of the five- After successfully operating the the width of the current Nordic Loop; kilometer Nordic Loop completed by trail system for four years, the GNSC and access for emergency crews Thurs-Mon 7am–7pm | Olympic Mt. Loop the Girdwood Nordic Ski Club in 2012. hopes to expand the trail system. We towards both the Hand-Tram and the www.thebakeshop.com | 783-2831 Since the trail’s 2012 opening, are listening to the community and upper valley trail system. We want to
the alaSKa nordic skier January 2017 13
P.O. Box 80111, Fairbanks, AK 99708-0111 Competition Office — 907-474-4242 Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks Competition Fax — 907-474-2073 Racing Hotline — 907-457-4434 Fairbanks, Alaska nscfairbanks.org SKIING UNDER THE NORTHERN LIGHTS Who’s Who in the Nordic Ski Club New race directors lead two popular race series of Fairbanks JUNIOR NORDIC HOTLINE 457-4437 BY ROBERT HANNON This season, the Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks is seeing PRESIDENT Bruce Jamieson some new directors for popular races. Trax Outdoor Cen- [email protected] ter is now running the Wednesday Night Race series and VICE PRESIDENT University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks cross-country Steven Hansen standout and coach Ross MacDougall is now helming the SECRETARY Buetow Distance Series. Liz Pawelko [email protected]
Wednesday Night Series TREASURER Trax Outdoor Center owner Mike Hajdukovich said he Mike Donaldson [email protected] wants to build the series so every skill level can partici- pate. He sees the series like a bowling night out for skiers, AT-LARGE MEMBERS [email protected] only with fewer pins and no strikes. Robert Hannon Helena Rueter “Race it slow, ski it with a friend or go as fast as you can. Eric Buetow This race is designed to be just like any town running/ Mark Winford PHOTO COURTESY OF ROSS MACDOUGALL walking race in the summer time,” he said. Ross MacDougall poses in Quebec with Aldo, a “super ADULT LESSONS COORDINATOR All will be held at Birch Hill Recreation Area. Six were friendly” donkey. Kathy Bue [email protected] | 371-9543 planned, but unfortunately the first two were canceled in the 2011-2012 series and fondly remembers the vibrant (one for lack of snow and FAIRBANKS JUNIOR NORDICS community and solid support he received at that race as a Sally Endestad the other for cold). Trax novice to the sport. As Distance Series Coordinator of the [email protected] | 371-9564 will create events on its 2016-2017 season, he aims to carry the series’ tradition of FAIRBANKS CROSS COUNTRY Facebook page where welcoming skiers of all levels in the Fairbanks community. Pete Leonard Head Coach, Program Director skiers can sign up for Ross, originally hailing from Kodiak, has also lived [email protected] one race or the whole series. The next race is planned for in Sitka, Juneau, Massachusetts, Oregon, Wyoming, RACE PROGRAM DIRECTOR January 18 at 6 — 45 p.m. For more information skiers can and Quebec. He moved to Fairbanks as a student at the John Estle [email protected] call Mike at 378-7800. University of Alaska Fairbanks in January 2011. He was The Hajdukovich name is familiar to most sports introduced to the sport of Nordic skiing and joined the MEMBERSHIP [email protected] enthusiasts. Mike was a dominating figure on the Monroe UAF cross-country running team as a walk-on in the fall Catholic High School and University of Alaska Fairbanks of that year. After spending his first season of competitive BIATHLON Helena Reuter | [email protected] basketball courts. In 2005 he started the Challenge Life eligibility injured, Ross went on to captain the running Foundation, a nonprofit which promotes youth sports and TOURING team for the next three years with teammate and co-cap- Mike Schmoker | msfbcski@gmail music organizations. tain Kenny Brewer and was named Most Valuable Player Eric Troyer | [email protected] Buetow Distance Series and Teammate of the Year for each of his three years of NEWSLETTER EDITOR competing for the Nanooks. After finishing his studies at Eric Troyer Ross MacDougall’s first experience with ski racing in [email protected] UAF in the spring 2015, Ross returned to coach the UAF Fairbanks was with the Buetow Distance Series. He raced cross-country running team for the fall 2016 season. SPONSORSHIP COORDINATOR Aelin Allegood [email protected]
time and commitment, please contact cember on how the trails should be WEBSITE WEBMASTER AROUND THE Chris Carlson Eric Troyer at fbxskierparent@ groomed. The poll was held on the [email protected] INTERIOR gmail.com. Facebook group Skarland and Pearl Creek Park Users. Justice sent out NSCF calendar the following email on December 14. Faster, more efficient, more keeps you updated the Magoffin Subdivision I have been affordable – The Nordic A long simmering issue for the setting a separate track for walking Skier in your Inbox Remember to check our NSCF Skarland 12 Mile Trail is the polite Calendar for upcoming club events. along with the ski tracks and it has Get your Alaska Nordic Skier request that people not damage the Things are quiet now, but they will worked well. I am pondering trying to online! It’s easy – the links below are set tracks by walking, running, or be getting busy soon, so it’s good to just a click away. To get only a PDF biking once tracks have been set. In See AROUND THE INTERIOR, Page 15 check it regularly. See the calendar at version, or both a PDF and printed — www.nscfairbanks.org > Calen- version, please send an email request dar to [email protected]. You can also find and share PDF ver- Help NSCF by sions at www.anchoragenordicski. going shopping com/newsletters.htm. Getting the You can earn donations from newsletter online only saves our club Fred Meyer to the Nordic Ski Club of money, too! Fairbanks just by using your Rewards Hannon steps down Card. Fred Meyer will donate $2.5 from NSCF board million to nonprofits in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington annually Robert Hannon has stepped down through this program. Find out how from the NSCF Board of Directors, at tinyurl.com/npmcles. citing too many other commitments to dedicate the time needed to serve on Poll shows desire the board. Robert served for about 18 for Skarland walking months. The board seeks people who and skiing tracks have a passion to support and grow Stan Justice, a volunteer groomer the Fairbanks cross-country skiing for the Pearl Creek Park and Skar- community. If you feel you have the land trails, held a poll in early De-
the alaSKa nordic skier 14 FAIRBANKS January 2017 Making do with snow scarcity BY ROBERT HANNON “It’s a mistake,” he said, “to try A recent article on Fasterskier. and re-groom a mere four inches of com said it all — “Birch Hill again packed snow.” held FIS races on the recent weekend If you asked an NSCF board mem- of Nov. 19-20. It had snowed ap- ber what the secret to great trails proximately 5″ total in Fairbanks this is, undoubtedly you’d hear the word winter by that point. Weekend racers “donations” mentioned several times. – and there were hundreds of them, Board Vice President Steven Hansen from kindergarteners without poles to points out that while the Fairbanks the APU Elite Team – skied on trails North Star Borough remains an im- that had been packed and dragged portant partner in trail maintenance, to create a base of approximately 2″. the bulk of the expense and work on There were admittedly some leaves the trails falls on the club. and dirt showing through in places “Each year I have been on the – but, crucially, it was leaves, not board,” he said, “towards the end of rocks.” the season the trail fund is drawn Gavin Kentch’s short comment in down and we have to encourage mem- a longer piece for Fasterskier.com bers to consider further support.” identified two remarkable facts about Hansen said the board is also work- Nordic skiing at Birch Hill this year PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM HELMERS ing to make electronic donations as Good early winter grooming requires smooth summer trails. — first, we don’t have a lot of snow easy as possible on the website. And and, secondly, we can still ski on what this point, Helmers says last sum- climate plays a role. there are signs and collection boxes there is. In fact, Birch Hill Recreation mer’s soggy conditions made trail “Generally your ground has had a encouraging the occasional visitor to Area has hosted several ski races and care especially challenging. chance to freeze before it snows,” he help with trail expenses. But, he said, is poised for more. “The club spends a lot of time and explained, “so if we do get warmups it is really up to club members who Given the scant snowfall, how is it money each year trying to keep the right after the first few snows the use the trails most to do the heavy that we are enjoying a nearly normal trails flat,” he said. ground is a natural refrigeration lifting. ski season? According to Nordic Ski Despite the rains, the Borough’s system.” “It seems counter-intuitive to re- Club of Fairbanks’ top groomer Tom Parks and Recreation department did Finally, he points to experience as mind members about the trails in the Helmers, the secret lies in summer its usual great job mowing the trails. a big factor in providing solid trails for spring,” he said. “But as you know, care. When spring snows have melted Also, Kentch observed, our trails, as the ski season. Helmers said it is just the summer plays a critical role in he and his crew ensure the trails set a rule, are rock free, so we are skiing as important knowing when not to do ensuring great skiing in the fall.” up before they see heavy traffic. On on top of grass. Helmer also says something. Backcountry Film Festival celebrates winter, helps the ski club BY ERIC TROYER The Backcountry Film Festival brings the world’s winter to Fairbanks this January. The Fairbanks showing, organized by the Nordic Ski Club of Fairbanks (NSCF), will be held on Sat- urday, January 28. Watch the NSCF website (www. nscfairbanks.org) and Facebook page for more information. Besides being great fun, this event serves as a fundraiser for the NSCF and the Winter Wildlands Alliance. This year the festival highlights experiences that fuel and surround winter activities. The lineup includes — Reflections — The woods in winter can often seem like poetry to the senses. Lifecycle of a Powderwhore — What is a Powderwhore? AK Girls Way — A memoir for Liz Daley as a consummate mountain guide with an infectious enthusiasm for life. SnowSchool — Watch the magic of the Winter Wildlands Alliance National SnowSchool program unfold with Selkirk Outdoor Leadership and Education participants. There on the Periphery — A midwinter dream. An Education — Join daughter-father duo Lilliana and Mike Libecki on their quest to backcountry ski Antarctica. Season on the Brink — Mother Nature is neither for you nor against you. Lessons of a near-fatal accident. Pace — “The slow passing of time is when I feel most alive,” Brody Leven. The Lost Sierra — A local take on the importance of protecting your home forest. and amateur filmmakers from around the world showings stay in local communities to support Snow Artists — Exploration is everywhere. who submit their best work for the festival. human-powered recreation and conservation ef- China, A Skier’s Journey — Skiing, both an exploding middle- class phenomenon as well as a historical means of survival for The BackCountry Film Festival aims to enter- forts and to raise awareness of winter management China. tain while helping raise funds and awareness for issues, avalanche training/safety and winter educa- Now in its 12th year the Winter Wildlands Al- Winter Wildlands and its like-minded partners. tion programs liance Backcountry Film Festival celebrates the The festival, which was created in 2004, premieres See the festival films at — winterwildlands.org/backcountry-film- human-powered winter experience through film. in Boise, Idaho, and then travels to more than 100 festival/. The films are selected from a mix of professional locations worldwide. Funds raised by the festival
the Alaska nordic skier January 2017 FAIRBANKS 15
AROUND THE INTERIOR (ADMA) trails, but when the snow Adventure on skis! and boosts creativity. Read about it in Continued from Page 13 comes this is a great place to ski. The When Luc Mehl and friends decide the article “The New Science of the do this on other sections of the 12 mile trails can be accessed from the Mush- to go cross-country skiing, they really Creative Brain on Nature” — tinyurl. trail thus this poll. ers Hall parking lot off Farmer’s Loop mean cross-country. In this adven- com/j7yk8zu. Groom a walking lane and classic ski tracks Road or the Creamer’s Field trails off ture they traveled from Haines to — 46 votes (88.5%) College Road. Find maps at — www. Novice wisdom about Juneau using skis, feet and pack rafts. Nordic skiing Stop all machine grooming — 5 votes (9.6%) sleddog.org/maps/. Read about the journey at thingstolu- Just groom classic tracks as in past years This amusing article has some Please know that the Mushers Hall cat.com/haines-to-juneau-traverse/. — 1 vote (2%) parking lot is the private property cross country wisdom from a relative- The Facebook group has 208 mem- of the ADMA, a nonprofit organiza- Nature — Good for your ly new skier in Montana — “Embrace bers. tion, and that the trails are groomed brain the wobble and six other lessons I The trail has been set with a sepa- solely by the ADMA. The group relies Get outside to ski (or hike or bike learned as a novice cross-country rate walking lane from the powerline heavily on donations, so please give or whatever) for your brain as well as skier” — tinyurl.com/he44enr. above Pearl Creek School to the Musk if you use the trails. The trail fee is your body. Research shows that being Ox Farm. It worked better in some $5 per day to be deposited in the lock outside in nature enhances higher- places than others. I put the tracks on box at the hall. You can also purchase order thinking, restores attention the high side which results in them a yearly membership online for only being on the steeper sidehill. Having $50. And please feel free to donate skied the trail, there were no places more if you use the trails a lot. To pur- where the ski tracks were too close chase a membership — sleddog.org/ to trees. (Having the tracks on the membership-trail-pass. To donate low side would put it up against the — sleddog.org/donate. trees since the trail has migrated downslope up against the trees.) And Keep your even in the narrow spots there was expensive skis safer room for careful walkers to use the Suggestions from an NSCF mem- trail. ber — A friend of mine showed me his trick for leaving expensive skis Beyond Birch in a rack and discouraging theft/ Birch Hill is an incredible trail accidental swapping. He would put system for cross-country skiing, but one ski and one pole in one place and there are many other places to ski the other around a corner in another in the Fairbanks area. As of mid- place. No one will steal/swap a single December, snow cover was thin on ski and few will go to the trouble of the Alaska Dog Mushers Association searching for the matching items. ONLY 3 miles SKIERS DISCOUNT to Birch Hill Free WiFi Team Waxing Area Meeting & Banquet Space
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the Alaska nordic skier 16 FAIRBANKS January 2017 NSCF Biathlon Program gaining popularity BY ERIC TROYER Fort Wainwright.) Practices are cur- The NSCF Biathlon Program has rently held from 3-5 p.m. Sunday. been gaining momentum over the The program got a big boost when past few years due to the efforts of it received a $25,000 grant from the a few dedicated volunteers and help Arctic Winter Games 2014 Legacy from the greater Fairbanks commu- Fund. These funds, left over from the nity. games, have been distributed to a va- In 2013, the program had only three riety of programs across Fairbanks to active members. By 2015 it had 10 ac- encourage youth sports. The largest tive members. In 2016, two biathletes portion of the biathlon grant money (Hanna Wuttig and Eloise Darrow) went to a shed at the Birch Hill range. and one coach (Margaret Darrow) This allows the program to securely were selected to participate for Team store needed equipment at the range, Alaska in the Arctic Winter Games in such as mats, metal targets, wooden Nuuk, Greenland. The program has practice frames, fencing and lane PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE NSCF BIATHLON PROGRAM NSCF Biathlon Program athletes compete at a recent race. also hosted summer clinics and had markers. Also stored there are rifles members participate in the World racks, which were built by Eagle will be a Besh Cup-style biathlon race Program organizers are also Junior Trials. Scout Norman Rockwell for the 2014 series. The Fairbanks races are April pursuing grants to purchase new bi- The number of volunteers has also Arctic Winter Games. The grant also 8-9. The other two races arein An- athlon rifles that can be used by club grown greatly and now includes 12 paid for start/finish area fencing, a chorage on January 14-15 and March biathletes. The club currently has 10 dedicated volunteers. And while the timer and a clock. 3-4. rifles, but they are obsolete and not program couldn’t function without Another $5,000 of the grant money A statewide clinic was held this reliably accurate in cold weather. these volunteers, others are also step- is being donated to the Birch Hill past May in Anchorage and eight Having program rifles available will ping forward to help. The program Trails Program. The donation is “in Fairbanks biathletes participated, decrease upfront costs for new par- received a generous grant from the acknowledgement of past and future along with four Fairbanks adults, who ticipants. Arctic Winter Games. The Univer- efforts by Tom Helmers and the other helped at the clinic. Two adults were The Biathlon Program is also sity of Alaska Fairbanks Rifle Team groomers to support the biathlon certified as Level 1 biathlon officials working with NSCF Sponsorship has offered to teach rifle clinics. And program, especially in the form of at the clinic, adding to the two exist- Coordinator Aelin Allegood to find NSCF trail groomers have made late-night and early-morning groom- ing Level 1 officials in Fairbanks. sponsors. Anyone interested in being an effort to be available for biathlon ing of the range stadium and courses While the biathlon program is hav- a biathlon sponsor should contact her events. prior to events,” according to Helena ing good success it still has several at [email protected]. The program holds its practices Reuter, secretary of the program. needs, including a beam or platform People interested in joining the at the rifle range at Birch Hill Rec- One indication of the growing at the target line that can be leveled, Biathlon Program, either as a biath- reation Area just off the White Bear strength of the Biathlon Program is a port-a-potty or desiccating outhouse lete or as a volunteer, should contact Trail. Actually, the range is on U.S. its involvement in statewide events. adjacent to the range building (the Jim Pasek ([email protected]) Army Fort Wainwright land, which This season the program will host nearest bathrooms are more than a or check out the program’s Facebook is adjacent to the recreation area. one of the three weekend races of the kilometer away), and a rifle safe so page — NSCF-Fairbanks Biathlon. (Nearly all the White Bear Trail is on new statewide Gold Cup Series. This that rifles can be stored at the range.
Olympian Holly Brooks and the balance of physical and mental training BY HOLLY BROOKS Pam’s unconditional support and THE ALASKA NORDIC SKIER the integration of mental training SPONSORED CONTENT was key to my career. I’m convinced During my tenure on the U.S. it allowed me to do things I would Ski Team, we all had counselors. have previously thought athletically Or if you want to sound fancy, a impossible for my abilities. Beyond “Sports Psychologist.” Mine was a that, her role in my life provided a woman named Pam Lemons and she model for what I wanted to become; was spunky! She drove a red Mini someone’s Pam! Cooper, always had eccentric nails This past August I launched Holly and shared the aura and energy Brooks LLC Counseling, Consulting of a mom, an aunt, a coach and a and Coaching which focuses on the confidant. Pam helped me set goals, mental side of sports. I am excited manage my emotions and learn from to combine a decade of coaching, challenging situations. Because I time as a professional Olympic skier knew everything we discussed was and academic credentials to provide 100 percent confidential, I never support to athletes and individuals in feared retribution or judgement. She Alaska and beyond. Potential topics was never consulted to pick Olympic include — getting to the next step, rosters or World Cup relays. During our sessions she down! Putting a pen to paper makes them real and performance anxiety, team dynamics, the mental side was there for me and me only and I always left with a sharing them with people you trust keeps you account- of injury, disordered eating, transition, and more. If you plan and/or a sense of peace. able. Goals should be outcome and process based. are curious about my services, please check out my I sincerely believe that the mental side of sport is 2) Find methods to control your anxiety if you expe- website (http://hollybrooks.com), email me under-utilized and under-trained. How much time do rience pre-race nerves. Try diaphragmatic breathing ([email protected]) or give me a call at you spend lifting weights or bounding only have your or “grounding techniques” to calm yourself. One of my (907) 350-8349! mind or negative self-talk unravel your performance? favorite tactics has always been to apply glitter … even I don’t think it’s always the strongest athlete that wins at the Olympics! the race but the athlete who uses a combination of 3) Create a “purpose map” and know why you are mind and body. doing what you do. Your goals should align with what That said, here are a few things to think about this motivates you – not your teammates, coaches or par- race season — ents. Daily actions, dedication and sacrifices should 1) Create specific, measurable goals and write them match your purpose map.
the Alaska nordic skier