MARCH 2004

News for the members of the Madison Nordic Ski Club Vol. 23 No. 5

• A FINAL WORD FROM JIMMY • OUR NEXT MEETING Monday, March 8, 2004 Lussier Family Thanks for the Memories Heritage Center BY JIMMY VANDEN BROOK Agenda 6:30: POTLUCK Dinner 7:30: Birkie Awards s my presidency done before my presidency. I hate to think 8:00: Election of Officers Asinks slowly in the what skiing would be like in our area with- 8:30-9:00: Socializing west let me thank the out the Madison Nordic Ski Club. We entire club for indulging would probably not have lights at Elver, MNSC BOARD OF DIRECTORS me these past five years. nor the quality of grooming equipment in Jimmy Vanden Brook It’s time to join that elite Madison, Blue Mounds State Park, and President (608) 437-4192 band of ex-presidents Governor Dodge State Park. Supporting [email protected] who now keep to the the club is a little like donating to PBS or Willi VanHaren shadows and only reluc- your local school (minus the beer and Vice President tantly offer their sage advice to troubled swag of course). It would be nice if every- (608) 437-3782 board members. While I have had some one who skied in Madison would provide [email protected] fun over the years at the expense of these a little energy to further the sport. Unfor- Hans Herweijer Treasurer old warriors, I tip my ski tunately, that won’t happen. [email protected] to them because now I’ve It’s your membership that Scott Bachmeier skied in their . IT’S TIME TO keeps skiing alive and growing Membership Thanks to my immediate despite miserably short ski (608) 824-9642 [email protected] predecessor, Dave Calhoon, seasons. We are in many ways JOIN THAT Ruth Bachmeier who brought a high level of a service club. You should feel Publicity organization to the club and ELITE BAND OF good about that. (608) 824-9642 an enormously dry wit that Our club is sometimes criti- [email protected] never bites and always brings cized for being too race Ned Zuelsdorff EX-PRESIDENTS. Race Chair a smile. Kind of like a good focused. It is a valid criticism. (608) 231-1876 martini. And of course I have But ski racers provide most of [email protected] to recognize my mentor, the the volunteer effort that drives Harry Lum club’s rock, the ex-president the club. The challenge to Advertising/Promotions (608) 273-2821 whose legacy lives in the those of you who would like hlum@convenience afterglow of the biggest pro- to see more offered to non- electronics.com jects the club has ever under- racers is to come forward and Kay Lum taken. I speak of non-other lead trips or organize other Newsletter (608) 249-0186 ext. 110 than Stormy Kromer himself events that would draw in a [email protected] (the skier formerly known as broader ski community. This Greg Jones Mike Ivey). I like to think that is an area where progress has Youth Ski Chair Dave and I built on the foundation that been slow. And those race-crazed among 273-3919 [email protected] Stormy and all the previous administra- us need to expand our horizon a little too. tions laid down. Remember, it was just Over the years the club has made con- Mark Webber KidSki Chair 1982 when 15 or so ski racers got together tinual investments in our youth programs: (608) 245-7019 at the Memorial Union Rathskeller to KidSki, SilverSki, and Juniors. This is the [email protected] launch the club with a few ceremonious seed from which the club could really John Taylor brews. flower. The example to look toward is the Social Director The club has seen steady growth in youth focus of the Blackhawk Ski Club. 236-4565 [email protected] membership over the years. Almost every They have over double our membership. I program has expanded because of the vol- believe that’s because they focus on their Walter Meanwell Wisconsin Nordic unteer effort of board and club members. jumping, downhill, and nordic programs Sports Foundation Liaison A great deal was accomplished by the for kids. Blackhawk is a private club on walt.meanwell@ club in the last five years despite the low private land. We operate largely on public wachoviasec.com snow situation. But so much more was (SEE FAREWELL, CONTINUED ON PAGE 10) No, Jimmy, Thank YOU Farewell For the Memories! Letters BY HARRY LUM TO THE BOARD would like to will flow in the y HUGE personal vote of Isay thank you to board meetings MTHANKS. You and your Board Jimmy for all that next year. have taken our club to a higher he has done for us I wish I knew all plane than I ever imagined possi- over the past 5 of you, but I don’t. ble. I can’t tell you how incredibly years. He always Now, that I am proud I am whenever I put on my dealt with things in retiring from MadNorSki or see the name a professional, yet “Swagmeister”, flaunted on all our adult and lighthearted way! I don’t stop saying Junior skiers. KUDOS! would also like to hi to me. It’s a Ski ya! thank ALL the Mad- nice feeling when — DON FARISS, MADNORSKI JUNIOR NorSki members, someone you COACH (AND KING OF THE HOTBOX for without you, we don’t know says wouldn’t have a Thanks to special connections in the club… we hello because you Editors note: aw gee, thanks Don. club. were able to get our hands on an official postal have your Mad- I can’t believe Kay NorSki jacket on. signed by Lance Armstrong himself to give to OPEN LETTER TO THE OUTGOING and I have been So go forth, par- (FINALLY) PRESIDENT OF MNSC producing the Prez Jimmy at his last meeting. (We pretended it ticipate in all the newsletter for four was your basic everyday “SWAG” but then pulled out events you can, JIMMY VANDENBROOK: years already. We the special raffle ticket pictured.) Pretty sneaky. say hi to all the RASPUTIN, SVENGALI, OR have met so many wonderful people people you encounter with a smile SNAKE-OIL SALESMAN? and it has been a pleasure to promote on your face and your MadNorSki MadNorSki to different retail, lodging jacket on your back. ❄ want you to know that the Ipeople of this club will not for- facilities, races, and to our members. Under Jimmy’s leadership the mem- get the endless poor snow years bership has really hit new highs and under your reign, even though you we were fortunate to be a part of that. have craftily chosen to relinquish It was my intentions to provide your regime on a “good snow “SWAG” at every meeting to help pro- year” in a hapless attempt to cloud mote attendance and increase mem- our memories of your service bership and we have done that. Alas, I record. Some of us are convinced have run out of ideas and new blood that the new “president” will be a mere puppet under your diaboli- MEMORIES cal powers. Further, your charisma THANKS FOR THE cannot be suppressed by your , phony “spread the Nordic ski JIMMY’S LEADERSHIP Harry Lum (along with the rest of the club) THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES , UNDER love” persona. This is merely a BEERS serenade Jimmy with the club’s version of WITH FIVE PURE YEARS OF, BLISS THE ICE COLD front for you and your privileged- THE SNOWLESS YEARS Bob Hope’s famous song “Thanks for the , THE GRINS THE WIT from-birth cronies to rake in mil- THE LAUGHS … Memories”. It was decided that the club is WE THANK YOU SO MUCH lions passing off pigmented hunks , * better at skiing than singing. of canning paraffin for $100 , WITH SKI ENTHUSIACS THANKS FOR THE BREWSKIS “secret weapon” go-fast Birkie THE MEETINGS WERE ALWAYS PACKED, , WINE CONISSEURS waxes to your endorphin- POTLUCKERS MICRO BREWERS TOO addicted, oxygen deprived, “Madi- WE AIN ’T NO WUSSIE CLUB son Nordic Ski Cult members”. , Sincerely, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES , DIDN’T HINDER US — ANDY “PINE-TAR AND THE SNOWLESS WINTER MONTHS MEMBERSHIP HAS GROWN SO MUCH WOOL KNICKERS” SWARTZ JIMMY COULD HAVE EVER KNOWN MORE THAN … IT’S ALL ‘CAUSE OF YOU , THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES , JIMMY’S ARTICLES WERE DIVINE THOUGH HE MISSED EVERY DEADLINE HIS CLEVER WIT WILL SURE BE MISSED Spread the HOW WILL WE GET BY … Nordic Love! WE WANT YOU TO STAY , HOUR SKI THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES , AT THE 24 ALTHOUGH YOU HURT YOUR KNEE Willi wore a special outfit in honor of , YOU MADE YOUR NAME BACK YOU CAME ” PROUDLY REIGNED Jimmy and Ned, well, Ned could “NUMBSKIERS ’TGOAWAY… hardly fight back the tears…if you PLEASE DON . look very closely, you can almost , BUT IT SOUNDS GOOD •NOT A REAL WORD see his lower lip trembling.

2 ❄ MNSC MARCH 2004 • WHAT WHERE THEY THINKING? • 2004/5 A Story From The Trail: MNSC The Nicolet Norski 30K Ski Race • Jan. 31st, 2004 Board of he time clock was taken down squad and cheered them on as the Tand the majority of the race fans crossed the finish line. They com- Directors had gone home. The only visible sign pleted this race with excellent atti- that a race had taken place were the tudes accompanied by smiles, Slate of words, “Finish-line” spray-painted in laughter, a few blisters and a sense of the snow but even that was pretty humor. In spite of the missing time Candidates well skied over. clock and water at the last rest stop It was hours after the last skier (elections to be held they clocked in a lovely 4 hours of came in and we began to worry at March 8, 2004 about our two friends who were still blissful skiing in the Nicolet National out on the course. They had only Forest. They especially got a kick out club meeting) skied once this season before taking of the caring message that was deliv- Co-President: on the 30K Nicolet Norski race, in ered by the skier from us friends… Walter Meanwell Lakewood, WI. We weren’t sure what “What the hell were you thinking”. Co-President: to do but we thought it would be As they entered the Country Club Dirk Mason best to inform the race director and (the warming house for the race) ask if they would send out a snow they received a standing ovation and Vice President: mobile in search of them. Just then a a couple of drinks which were well Tom Kaufman skier volunteered to ski out on the deserved. Note: Brian and Carolyn trail to see if he could find them. We Treasurer: discovered a few things during the sent a brief message with him. In 15 Duncan Bathe min. he reported back that they were race: You may want to ski more than Newsletter: fine and had only 3K to go. once before taking on 30K, Moleskin is Ben Neff As the 2 remaining skiers of the a good thing, and attitude is key! But Membership: race (Brian & Carolyn Cassel) were in they still wondered: “What the hell Scott Bachmeier sight we formed a mini-cheering were WE thinking?” ❄ Publicity: Ruth Bachmeier Pending Thoughts Race Chair: for Next Season Ned Zuelsdorff Youth Ski: BY CO-PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFULLS, DIRK MASON AND WALTER MEANWELL Greg Jones

ere are a few of the ideas that the Possibly an Kid Ski: Mark Webber Hnew administration (if elected) equipment swap. has been working on for next year. This could be Social Chair: Tuesday night Preseason Racing especially nice Gordy Bartholemew the first three Tuesday’s in December for families with Wisc. Nordic Sports Foundation: at Tyrol Basin. If we can put this one growing kids or Walter Meanwell together it will be something you can newer skiers who plan on since it will be on man made don’t want to Trips: snow. drop big bucks Meanwell/Mason Activities for children at on new Advertising/Promotions: the monthly meetings. gear. ??? Turkey bowling is a must THE TRIPS So as Co-Presidential hopeful see. you can Dirk Mason Featured brewery of the ARE COMING see we fully intend and plan month at the meetings. This on moving the club forward. Hail to Heil! one could be quite festive. BACK This is The trips are coming back your BY TEDD E. SCHWEITZER with a vengeance. They will WITH A club. If be about evenly split you n regards to Blue Mounds State between recreational and would IPark grooming — to Karl Heil racing orientation. At least VENGEANCE. like to in particular — In my personal one trip will be to beautiful share opinion, I think the new equip- B.C. We are going to try to negotiate ideas that you ment donated by MadNorSki was discounts for club members on lodg- have please let a very good investment. The trails ing at focus hotels. your friendly at Blue Mounds have been very A for the 2004/2005 board members good when other locations were season. Here’s your chance to look know. Thank you Co-Presidential hopeful marginal. THANK YOU KARL! ❄ ever so cool. very much. ❄ Walter Meanwell

MNSC MARCH 2004 ❄ 3 Ski Bikeskiers Tell All

BY ANDY SWARTZ, ANN POLLOCK, ARTHUR ROSS, MARK HARMS, & TYE GRIBB, EDITED BY JOE KING, PHOTOS BY PAT KING

few intrepid individuals gath- 6:30 PM, TYE GRIBB FOUND THE Aered at Odana with their bikes BIKING PORTION OF THE EVENT and skis just as the sun was fading STIMULATING: from view. Soon they would start “The bike ride on slick, snow cov- a 2.4 km ski around the main loop ered roads with my skis continually at Odana and then load them- banging up against my head added selves and their skiing gear onto the fear element their bikes for a commute to Elver that is often where they would then ski the 5 missing from km course. Each would be timed cross country from the start of the ski at Odana skiing. I’m defi- to the finish of a 5 km ski at Elver. nitely going to Each would end the day with a “train” for this story to tell. Here we have pieced The Group: common Sense Just Doesn't Enter Into It next year. It is all in together several accounts of the do this? I was so cold after trying to the transitions…” evening’s adventure in order to tell adjust and organize my gear that I 6:46 PM, ANDY their story (ba bum bump). The made the last-minute decision to wear COMES INTO names were not changed for the pro- my heavy warm-up jacket for the THE THIRD LEG: tection of others. Odana ski. That turned out fine — I “Once on the bike I TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD, 5:55 PM, was just beginning to warm up at the rolled along pretty Tye's Head Manages the ANDY SWARTZ PREPARES HIS GEAR: end of the ski, and by the finish of the well and even Trip Slightly Banged but “I had wanted to do this event in past bike ride to Elver, the fingers and toes traded pulls with the Okay years and was glad to finally be avail- were functional again. I shed the jacket guy who I had taken the detour with. able to participate. When I read the and enjoyed skiing the Elver race Then he dropped me on a steep hill. announcement that there would be style alone, ahead of Stormy and all of the The road was snow and ice covered in points and night/winter commute other fast Tuesday Night skiers”. some spots but the traffic was courte- appropriateness points I saw this as an 6:26 PM, MARK HARMS BENEFITS ous and patient and probably a little opportunity to have even more fun, and FROM THE MISTAKES OF OTHERS: curious to see cyclists laden with skis possibly pick up some bonus seconds. I “I pulled into the first transition with sev- cooking down the road at the dark of was startled when the idea to mount the eral people and saw one LED’ed bike winter. Upon reaching Elver I was Yakama ski rack on my tandem go off before me. I had learned from the pleased see our intrepid event photog- popped into my head, and relieved to last ski-bike-ski during which I changed raphers already there and wanting to find that it was indeed possible. The , so this time I used toe clips on take my photo at the transition. It was a best part of the night was when I was my bike and rode in my ski boots. fast transition — remove , pop getting the rig out of my car. Joe King When I hit the bike path, I couldn’t see open ski rack, unhook two bungies, came over to say hello and when he the biker ahead of me. I assumed he and slap on the skis. saw the setup he said ‘WHOOAAA! had opened up a lead to demoralize You’ve got to be kidding me!’ the rest of us and was already up and The ski at Odana was frigid but fun. A over the beltline bridge. When I turned measure of the tone of this fun event onto Hammersley, I still couldn’t see a was given by Ann Pollock who said tail-light, so I figured the guy up ahead ‘I’ve never been less nervous for a ski was a real monster and deserved to race’ while shivering on the start line. win. I also decided my choice was I’ve skied Odana in the dark plenty of somehow slowing me down. It turns times and the trail conditions were per- out, of course, that rider took a wrong fect so that part went well.” turn in the parking lot at Odana and was behind me on the road.” 6:27 PM, ANDY RECOUNTS Andy Arrives at Elver, Yakama ski rack and all HIS ATTEMPT TO CATCH THIS WAYWARD CYCLIST: There was plenty of excitement in the “Leaving Odana is where things went air from the ski race. It was pretty awry. I was drawn down the snow-cov- impressive to see the dozens of skis ered service road by the flashing lights lined up outside as we made our transi- of another rider like a sailor fatefully tions. I had never done one of the Elver lured onto the rocks by a siren. We had races so this made it extra fun to ski the been warned about this trap at the start course and see the main event front but it was an easy mistake to make. runners as I was finishing my loop. I Ann in Transition at Elver Two people who had finished the ski was happy to score well in the bike 6:13 PM, ANN POLLOCK DESCRIBES ahead of me but I had passed in transi- and commute categories. It was espe- THE BONE-CHILLING START: tion passed me while I was slogging cially fun to have Arthur Ross at Odana “I grew a little apprehensive as the tem- through the deep snow with my 50- and Elver, clad in Sorels and his Griz- perature dropped, the wind picked up, pound rig in search of the access point zly Adams beard, with his very official- and darkness fell. Did I really want to for the Southwest Commuter Pathway.” (SEE BIKESKIERS, CONTINUED ON PAGE 6)

4 ❄ MNSC MARCH 2004

(BIKESKIERS, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4) looking notepad and clipboard. I look Start Saving Your Change. forward to next year when I’ll have more skiing fitness and I wonder what MadNorSki clothing order planned sort of creative engineering opportuni- for 2004/2005 Season. ties the event will provide.” BY DIRK MASON 7:08 PM, ARTHUR ROSS TALLIES HIS CAREFULLY CONSIDERED ou have seen the MadNorSki JUDGEMENTS: Yclothing at your favorite trail, “Sherren gets bonus points for having a race, or post race watering hole. planet bike headlight that probably cost Other skiers are talking about the 2 - 3 times what she paid for her good- — admired and coveted by will pink and purple bicycle that she those outside the club. You are rode. First place for equipment points is inspired by Pat Conway’s article difficult between Andy and Steve Gold- in the November 2003 newsletter stein. Andy’s rig was impressive, and to feel the pride of wearing the he had lots of lights, blinkies and reflec- MadNorSki clothing or want to tors, plus studded tires. Steve, on the be recognized by other club other hand, had the most impressive members at your next Birkie. set up for a standard bike for carrying Whatever your reason, there was skis. Andy’s tandem ski rack is great, an unexpected demand for cus- but few people could replicate it. Andy tom MadNorSki ski clothing this was head and shoulders above the oth- year that could not be met with ers on lights and reflectors, though. My the limited supply. points go to Andy. Steve gets an Given the response an order will be You too can look this cool! Chris Halverson, Walter extra bonus, however, for volunteering placed early fall for the 2004/2005 ski Meanwell and John Riley represent MadNorSki well at to sweep the ride after Joe decided to season. To more accurately deter- the start of the 24 hours of Telemark race. call it a night, and I would recommend mine your size, a fitting will be sched- an additional bonus for his disappear- polyester that is warm and soft. The uled. Exact time and location of the jacket is constructed of soft nylon ing transition at Elver [as a way to fitting will be posted on the XC list warm up]. with a dryfleece lining, great as pre serve and MadNorSki website. If you and post ski attire. 7:16 PM, ANN TAKES STOCK don’t have email or internet access, The club tries not to manage and OF THE EVENINGS FUN: keep in touch with your ski friends carry an inventory of clothing. There- “I got a lot of good ski transport ideas over the summer that do. You can fore, to guarantee you get clothing in from the other par- join the XC list by sending the word your size place your order with the ticipants, which I’ll “subscribe” as the subject of a mes- club when it is announced late this try out next year. sage to xc-request@danenet .org or summer or early fall. Next year? Yes, I’ll got the MadNorski webpage For additional information or ques- be back. But about www.madnorski.org and click on “The tions contact Dirk at dmason 1027 the style points — XC List” for more information. @yahoo.com or 277-1881. ❄ didn’t Arthur see The clothing can be order as a my duct-taped (jersey and ) or by the individ- If you want to see it in how cool the fender?! It is amaz- ual garment. A jacket is also available suits look in color, download this ing to experience in the same design as the jersey. The newsletter from the MadNorkSki how easy it is to jersey and tights are made of brushed website! bike to skiing. I had thought it was WORDS OF WISDOM FROM WILLI far-fetched, but it is (APPARENTLY HE SPENDS HIS IDLE HOURS SURFING THE WEB) a practical possi- aving trouble moving up in the birkie? Check the Toko website, under bility. Thanks for Steve Goldstein Finishes Hthe information for poles they list spear parts. These may get you the [not] organizing respect you have been looking for at the start line. ❄ this [non-]event! ❄ Strong, but last.

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 Racing Election of Lussier Family Friday Feb. 24 Mar. 8, up Officers Heritage Center February 13 TBA 6:30 pm POT LUCK

6 ❄ MNSC MARCH 2004

• WHAT ARE THE SILVER SKIERS DOING?• Silver Skiers Roar Into High School Championships and Badger State Games

BY GoREGr JONES

he Silver Skiers made a strong Schimpff was the second place fin- Tshowing this year at the Middle isher in the classical and third place untry skiing School division of the Wisconsin -co in the freestyle. Cameron Bathe com- ss High School Championships. We ro peted only in the Freestyle event went there with a team of seven C where he finished in first place! which included five boys and two s We have been very grateful to Ned r girls. That was the largest team repre- e for holding the “first timer” events at ad senting any club in the state in the fo gr Elver Park. We have had several rac- Middle School division. The event r. 5th-8th ers in those events. All of the skiers lasted two days with freestyle races mentioned above have been in races on Saturday and Classical at Elver. In addition to them races on Sunday. Awards are Jake Tantow has gotten in his given to the top ten finishers first two XC ski races at the in each race. The Silver skiers Elver series. came away from the event I think I can speak for all of with a total of FIVE awards! In us at the Madison Nordic Ski the girls freestyle race on Sat- Club when I say how proud urday Corrina Jones finished we are of all the Silver Skiers. in second place. On the boys All of you stuck it out through side Birken Schimpff was a the first “no snow” months of fourth place finisher in the this winter. Your results at the freestyle event. Sunday rolled races are fantastic, but we are around and they geared up also very happy to see the for the Classical race. At the enjoyment you are getting end of the day the Silvers had from cross country skiing. We won three more awards. Cor- all hope you continue to rina was second place in the enjoy and love our sport for girl’s race. In the boys event years to come. You are the Birken finished in fourth future! ❄ Silver Skiers before the start of a “first timer” race at Elver. From left to right: Birken Schimpff, Jake Trantow, Coach Greg, and Cameron Bathe. place and Cameron Bathe finished in ninth place. Our other skiers that par- ticipated in both races that weekend were Mike Becker, James Foust, Zack Eskrich, and Kelsey Eskrich. Congratulations to all of them on there fine performances. The next weekend we traveled to Birken Schimpff glides into the finish line of the Classic the Badger State games. Again the Sil- race at High School championship’s Middle school divi- ver skiers came away with FIVE sion. Note the body position during the “collection Ansel Schimpff double poles his way into the finish line medals. As you all probably know phase”. at the High School Championships. they only award 3 deep at Badger State games. Corrina Jones took first place gold in both of her races, the Classical and the Freestyle. Birken

Some of the Junior Girls team at High School Champi- onships. From Left to right, Elisa Becker, Aria Walsh-Elz, Karen Stolzenberg, Jenna Acker, Brittany Alioto, Marta Ansel Schimpff (right) starting the start of the Freestyle Corrina Jones Starting the Classic race on Sunday Drew, Martha Sample, Sara Eskrich, and Louise Jones. race High School Championships. against powerhouse Melanie Hoffman from Ashwaubenon.

8 ❄ MNSC MARCH 2004 Some might call this a “ROLLER LOPPET” on inline skates!

• SATURDAY • AUGUST 21, 2004

OIN DAVE ROBB* AND JMANY OTHER MADNORSKIS ALONG WITH 2,900+ OTHER INLINE SKATERS ROLLING FOR 26.2 MILES AMIDST THE SKYLINE OF SAINT PAUL, MN AND THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER AT THE INAUGURAL SAINT PAUL INLINE MARATHON.

THIS EVENT IS RUN JUST LIKE A TOP-NOTCH XC SKI EVENT WITH: GATES, PROFESSIONAL TIMING, GOODIE BAGS, EXPO, AGE GROUP AWARDS, ETC., THE ONLY EXCEPTION IS THAT THE SNOW IS GONE AND YOU WILL BE ON INLINE SKATES INSTEAD OF XC SKIS!

YOU CAN REGISTER ONLINE AT: SAINTPAULINLINEMARATHON.COM

OR GIVE US A CALL AND WE WILL DROP A REGISTRATION FORM IN THE MAIL FOR YOU.

*This is NOT (651) 238-2651 Dave Robb.

Photo Courtesy Rollerblade, Inc. Stay in • NEWS FROM THE JUNIORS • Shape This Just Wait ’Til Next Year! Summer… BY DON FARISS he 2004 edition of Wis- improved this year and 4 With the MadNorSki untry skiing Tconsin High School co individuals nearly cracked s- Thursday Paddlers Championships was held s ro the top 20. These four in Iola at the Norseman C (Louise Jones, Mikaela Trails at the end of Janu- s r Robertson, Noah Kenoyer e ary. The event consisted d and Ansel Schimpff) all of an interval start freestyle f ra ended the weekend by being or g ooking for an alternative workout race Saturday followed by an 8th-12th named to the prestigious “Gold Lthis summer, something new and exciting pursuit-start race on Group” for seeding at next year’s fun that’s easy on your knees and Sunday that determines the overall event. Next year we will have a very builds upper body strength for win- “Skimeister” for the weekend. This strong team with 10 seniors. We ter’s double poling? year’s edition was dominated by Hay- hope to be back on our mid-February Then mark your calendar for 5:45 ward, Minocqua and Rhinelander. date then and possibly racing at Tele- pm every Thursday, from April 15th Everyone on our young team mark Resort or Schwann Center. ❄ through October 15th, and join the MadNorSki Thursday Paddlers. (There is no entry fee; you need only Blue join the e-mail list and show up with FREE a paddle and life jacket and willing- ness to get a little wet in the pursuit Mounds Kortelopet of going fast.) We meet at a centrally located Trail Run! Entries Madison launch site, designated by e- BY WILLI VAN HAREN mail the day before, and paddle for Received 1.5 +/- hours of warm-up, moderate any nordic skiers use the trails at BY DON FARISS pace, and occasional interval work- MBlue Mounds State Park for skiing outs, and sometimes gather for beer and trail running. Now there is a trail wo MadNorSki Juniors were and dinner afterwards. We also car- running event to enjoy at this beauti- Tthe lucky recipients of two pool to weekend races. ful park. On Saturday June 5, 2004 at free entries to the Kortelopet this Workouts are in C-1 and C-2 race 8:30 A.M. there will be two trail runs, year. These freebies were funded canoes, and recreational race canoes one at 14.1K and the other at 25.5K. by contributions to the Wisconsin (such as a Jenson 18). If you don’t Both races traverse the park from top Nordic Network (WINN) and were have such a craft, no sweat — you to bottom and around the perimeter. the result of the labors of Phil can be provided a seat in one with a You’ll run through dense maple forest Johnsrud of Iola. One free entry day’s advance notice. and open prairie. Most of the trail is was offered to each of the 19 orga- Willi Van Haren is the operations shaded and about 15% is single track. nized high school ski teams in the chief (psh@it is.com); Frank Farwell The park is about 400 feet of vertical state. The MadNorSki Juniors is communications coordinator (ffar- from bottom to top, so you’ll do some received a second one as a [email protected]); and Kevin Leroy climbing. Walking is used by many memorial to the late Silent Sports ([email protected]), a nation- “runners” to moderate the uphills. editor and Birkie skier, Greg Marr. ally-ranked Big Kahuna of marathon Showers will be available after the These entries were awarded to and short-course race paddling, is race. Pre-race registration is $20.00 individuals based on commitment frequently on hand to lead the work- and day of event is $25.00. The web- to the sport, improvement and/or outs and offer expert coaching tips. site for this event is need. 2004 MadNorSki Junior If this sounds good to you, send http://personalpages recipients were Mikaela Robert- Frank an e-mail and ask to be put on .tds.net/~pshdsl/trail son and Martha Sample. the alert list. run. html If anyone would like to con- In the Days of No Snow that are Or email me at psh@it tribute to this effort (which has sure to come, there is no better way is.com for the link or not been fully covered by dona- to spend an evening. ❄ ❄ more information. tions yet), contact Phil at john- srudp@iola .k12.wi.us or (FAREWELL, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) includes more than just beer at club [email protected]. This pro- lands and could accommodate essen- meetings. gram will likely be offered next tially unlimited membership. I think Again, I’ve been proud to be your year too and funds will be sought that with kids having more and more president and look forward to joining again. More information on WINN trouble with weight control and Dave and Stormy in the background can be found at http://xcski health issues, we could fill a growing (and we’ll still complain if the beer winn.org/ ❄ need for healthy lifestyle alternatives. isn’t up to snuff!). Please lend your This could reach out to a very large support and energy to the incoming Good Luck to the winners! Do I see group of folks. As a future ex-presi- administration. They have some a newlsetter article for the Nov. dent, I will advocate our development great ideas of their own and they will 2004 issue? as a club into that arena. Our mission need you. ❄

10 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 The CAT Ski Story

ale Niggemann started the quest to make a better Classic ski around 12 years ago but he did not Dwant to copy the competition. He wanted to beat the competition. So, he talk to coaches, did a few clin- ics with some coaches on classic technique, read a little about classic skiing and he came up with an idea late one night in his laboratory several years ago. The idea he came up with was the CAT Ski which stands for Classic All Terrian Ski and he means all terrian! Other manufactures say their skis are all terrian but they are not. The CAT skis can go on sand, ice, grass, pavement or mud. In fact they can go where mountain bikes can1t even go! We have sev- eral customers who ski when it is cold and dark. They put their CAT ski1s on in the garage and CAT ski right out their garage onto the lighted 1000 km CAT ski trail (lighted city streets). They ski for 30 minute to 2 hours and ski right back into there garage. They love it because they don’t even have chance to get cold. The CAT skis have another feature that is quite nice. You can ski side by side with your CAT ski buddies and talk. It can be very difficult to do this on other roller skis because of traffic and narrow trails. CAT Ski testimonal by Lowell McCoy

“MAXIMIZE SKI-SPECIFIC FITNESS WITH MINIMUM INVESTMENT IN TIME. AS EASY TO FIT INTO DAILY ROUTINE AS RUNNING. BUT MORE EFFICIENT BECAUSE ITS SKI SPECIFIC AND INCLUDES UPPER BODY WORKOUT AND CLAS- SIC TECHNIQUE. DURING THE ŒBUILD1 PART OF MY TRAINING YEAR, CAT SKIS TAKE ON AN INCREASING ROLE IN MY TRAINING. CAT SKIING MIXES WELL WITH ENDURO ROLLER SKIING (SKATE TECHNIQUE AND POL- ING) AND TRAIL RUNNING TO BUILD SPEED ENDURANCE. BY MIXING THE 3 TRAINING ROUTINES, I AVOID OVERUSE INJURY WHILE INSURING ATTENTION TO ALL THE BALANCE AND MUSCLE TRAINING NEEDED FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON. AS THE WEATHER GETS COLD, WET, WINDY AND JUST PLAIN MISERABLE, I RELY ON THE CAT SKIS. THEY ACTUALLY MAKE IT PLEASANT TO SKI DURING THIS TYPE OF WEATHER. I INVEST ALMOST NO TIME IN DRIVING, WAITING FOR THE ROADS TO DRY, OR AVOIDING TRAFFIC. I DON’T HAVE TO QUIT BECAUSE ITS DARK. I JUST HOPE THAT THE OTHER GUYS IN MY AGE GROUP HAVEN’T FOUND CAT SKIING YET. I NEED EVERY ADVANTAGE THAT I CAN GET. LAST SUNDAY, FOR THE LAST 20 MINUTES OF A RAIN-SOAKED CAT SKI SESSION, I GOT THAT WONDERFUL MID-SEASON FEELING WHEN THE RHYTHM AND BALANCE OF CLASSIC SKIING COME TOGETHER IN A NEAR EFFORTLESS MOTION. AND ITS ONLY SEPTEMBER.”

A future Birkie skier starts training early. CAT Ski testimonal by David Deverell

“I HAVE LOGGED JUST OVER A HUNDRED HOURS ON THE CAT SKIS OVER AM ON MY FAVORITE TRAIL. IN 3 YEARS I PROBABLY PUT MAYBE 30 THE SUMMER MONTHS. I HAVE SKIED IN 90 PLUS HEAT, RAIN, & ANYTHING HOURS ON THEM. I HAVE SINCE SOLD THEM ON A POPULAR WEBSITE. THE MOTHER NATURE DECIDED TO SURPRISE ME WITH. I WENT OUT YESTERDAY CAT SKI HAS CHANGED ALL THAT. I CAN SKI MY FAVORITE TRAIL ANYTIME I FOR MY DAILY SKI AND I WAS STILL SO EXCITED TO GO. IT WAS ALMOST WANT. I JUST PUT ON MY NORMAL SKI BOOTS, GRAB MY POLES AND GO. LIKE A KID WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS MORNING TO COME OR WAITING TO BEFORE I KNOW IT I AM GLIDING ALONG WATCHING THE SUN DANCE ITS GET OUT ON A FRESHLY GROOMED TRAIL AFTER A GOOD NIGHTS SNOW- WAY THROUGH THE PINES. THE DEER ARE WATCHING JUST OFF TRAIL & FALL. I TRIED TO PUT MY FINGER ON IT AND SIMPLY PUT CAT SKIING IS THE SQUIRRELS ARE BOUNDING AROUND IN FRONT OF ME. AS I SKI PAST REAL SKIING AND NOTHING ELSE IS UNLESS THERE IS SNOW. I LOVE TO SKI LARGE ROCKS LEFT BY A MELTED GLACIER I REALIZE I AM SEEING THINGS I AND THE CAT SKI LETS ME SKI YEAR ROUND. I LOVE THE GLIDE OVER A NEVER SEE IN THE WINTERTIME. WHEN I AM DONE I HAVE JUST GOTTEN A CRISP SNOWY TRAIL, THE JANUARY AIR BITING AT YOUR NOSE AND FINGER- FABULOUS WORKOUT AS A BONUS. THE CAT SKI HAS TAUGHT ME PROPER TIPS. THERE IS NOTHING BETTER AND THE JOY IT BRINGS EACH TIME IS WEIGHT TRANSFER & HOW TO PUSH WITH MY WHOLE FOOT. ITISMYPER- REALLY PRICELESS. THE LAST COUPLE OF WINTERS HAVE LEFT US WHO SONAL COACH THAT KEEPS ME FOCUSED EVERYTIME I USE THEM. I HAVE LOVE THIS SPORT DAZED & DEPRESSED. YOUR CAT SKI IS THE ANSWER DEVELOPED AMAZING STRENGTH BOTH UPPER BODY & LEGS. THE BUNGEE TO ANY SKIERS PRAYERS. I NOW CAN SKI ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, AND ON RESISTANCE PROVIDES ALL OF THAT I NEED TO DEVELOP STRONG SKI MUS- ANY THING. THE CAT SKI IS THE ONLY TRUE OFF ROAD ALL TERRAIN CLES. MY USUAL SKI TRAIL OFFERS, PINE NEEDLES, DIRT, STICKS, STONES, SKI. ALMOST NOTHING STOPS IT. IN THE PAST I HAD TRIED RUNNING WITH GRAVEL, GRASS, & SAND. THE CAT SKI JUST MOTORS EFFORTLESSLY POLES, SKI WALKING, & ROLLER SKIING. ROLLERSKIING WAS THE MOST THROUGH ALL OF IT. FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN’T TRIED THIS SKI, YOU ARE CRITICAL OF THE THREE. I WENT OUT & BOUGHT THE SUPPOSED TOP OF REALLY MISSING OUT. IT IS IN TWO WORDS AMAZINGLY FUN. IT HAS GIVEN THE LINE ROLLER SKI WITH SPEED REDUCERS. AFTER I PUT ON MY HEL- ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO WHAT I LOVE MOST WHICH IS TO SKI. I CAN MET, ELBOW PADS, WRIST GUARDS, GLOVES, & KNEE PADS I FELT MORE NOW GO ANYTIME IN ANY WEATHER.I HAVE HAD MORE FUN THAN EVER LIKE A GOING INTO BATTLE INSTEAD OF A CROSS COUNTRY SKIER. I THIS SUMMER ON THE CAT SKI’S AND AM SO EXCITED ABOUT FALL. INA WENT OUT ON A FAIRLY SMOOTH ROAD & AFTER GETTING BREEZED BY WAY, I AM NOT SURE IF WHEN WE GET SNOW IF I WILL GET THE SAME MANY CARS I REALIZED THIS WAS NOT SKIING AT ALL. I WAS BUNDLED UP WORKOUT I DO WITH THE CAT SKI. IT IS THE MOST FUN ANYONE CAN LIKE AN X GAME PARTICIPANT, GOING WAY TO FAST ON UNSTABLE ROLLER HAVE WITHOUT SNOW. THANK YOU AGAIN AND I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SKIS FEARING FOR A BROKEN BONE OR ROAD RASH. THE NOISE OF CARS BIRKIE. BRING ON THE HILLS I AM READY TO GO. THANKS AGAIN DALE ZOOMING BY & THE SMELL OF EXHAUST WAS NOT WHAT I SENSE WHEN I FOR YOUR VISION!” Blackhawk Nordic Day A Success!

BY MARK TORRESANI

he First Annual Blackhawk needed for the 8 to 10 year old TNordic day was held on Feb- age group, which saw Nicki Wolfe ruary 14, 2004. A day that and Andrew Torresani neck and brought perfect snow conditions neck throughout the race to the and the weather to match. The finish line with a time of 5:13 for participants and spectators at the 1.5 K. Congratulations to all the event had a great time. The day children who participated. was focused on four events, a 0.3 Biathlon: With this being the K sprint, a 5K race, a children’s first ski and shoot biathlon race to race and a be held at Black- biathlon. The hawk, one thing races were skied WATCHING KIDS was learned by all over a variety of who participated terrain including GET EXCITED ABOUT and those who the new trail that watched “biathlon was developed in CROSS COUNTRY SKI is a lot of fun”. The 2003 and trails format for the race that members cre- was a sprint, which ated years ago. RACING MAKES ALL consisted of skiing The natural snow 1K, shooting, skiing on top of the man THE VOLUNTEER 1K, shooting, and made snow made skiing 1K. For each for great races. HOURS missed shot racers Thanks to all the had to ski a penalty volunteers who WORTHWHILE lap of 100 meters made this day hap- . prior to skiing the pen, and a special 1K loop. There thanks to Ned Zuelsdorff for his were several standouts in the timing expertise. Summaries of crowd of racers. One being Don the races are as follows. Becker, who had a strategy as he Sprint: We now have a King of described as “heart rate manage- the Mountain and his name is ment”. The rest of the racers just Yuriy Gusev. He won the final leg thought he was skiing slow, but of the sprint with a time of 52 sec- his strategy paid off big on the fir- onds. Yuriy played his cards right ing line where he hit 8 out of 10 and saved his speed for the last targets (the best of the day) and sprint of the day. Other speed- driving the crowd wild with every sters of the day were Dirk Mason hit . and the new up and coming kid All in all the day was a lot of fun on the block Chris Lawn with a and we’re already planning for time of 53 seconds. the second annual Nordic Day at 5K: The race consisted of two Blackhawk Ski Club. The plan is loops around the outer Nordic to hold the event the week before trail with two climbs to the top of the Birkebeiner on an annual run #1. Chris Lawn thought he basis. Thanks to all the partici- had a victory in hand until Mark pants and volunteers and con- Torresani tied him with an all out sider yourselves founders of effort down the home stretch. what should become a hallmark Children’s Race: This was one event of the club. ❄ of the highlights of the day. Watching kids get excited about cross country ski rac- ing makes all the volunteer hours worthwhile. Rac- ers ranged from 5 to 13 years of age and skied from 0.5 to 1.5 kilometers. A photo finish was

12 ❄ MNSC FEBRUARY 2004 Congratulations MadNorSki Birkie Skiers! END OF SEASON SALE ON SKI GEAR

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HIGHWAY 63 NORTH IN HAYWARD.• OPEN 9-5 M-SAT. 10-4 SUNDAY Never Say Never Gallons BY KATHY DUCAT of Chili lash back – it is the weekend prior ment – 20k classical race women’s age Consumed Fto the Badger State Games 2000. I 40-44 – first place – Kathleen Ducat. I am skiing the 10k route at Nine Mile as was the only entrant – all I had to do by Hungry MadNorSkis a practice session. I am skiing with was finish – sometime… Gina Interrante, my ski guide. Her cru- Not feeling too worthy of this medal, he MadNorSki Juniors would like cial role, in the absence of my sight, is it was Jim taking on that guidance role Tto extend an enormous THANK to provide direction on terrain, the again – “you know there are a lot of YOU to the adult MadNorSkis for location of other skiers, and a few people sitting on the couch right now their participation in the first Chili technique tips thrown in for fun. I – they’re not out here skiing”. In all would not be out there skiing without truth, a special thanks to all of you the guidance of another person. We who guide because if not for you, we’d pass the spot that reads be sitting on that couch. 20k loop. Gina says There are a lot of good “C’mon, lets ski 20k “I WILL NEVER people in this world who today”. I respond with are willing to share their firm belief – “I will never BE ABLE TO SKI time and talents. This be able to ski that far”. has been especially true That year I scored a third THAT FAR.” in the folks who have place out of four entries touched my life through The Juniors gathered for a group shot, just before in the Novice Group for the 10k race. skiing. Every “good race” or “you are serving their chili to fellow MadNorSkis. Never say never. Here we are look- looking good” makes a difference. ing back at Badger State Games 2004. Thanks to all of you who are support- Dinner at last January’s MadNorSki No more entering the Novice Group ive of one another and who make our club meeting. It was a rousing suc- because one time at that level is all world a winter wonderland. cess! We had hoped to feed 80, but you get. Signing up to Ski the 20k race For the Kortelopet, the Birkie Office there was so much interest, we fed was a way to see if I could ski that far. offered a name of a person who has 100 and raised over $600. These The maiden Kortelopet race is the guided people in the past. A few monies will be set aside for any Mad- next challenge. weeks ago we traveled to Hayward to NorSki Junior who earns a future It’s off to the races with Jim Cun- meet Jon Malkerson. You may know berth to Junior Olympics. The 2005 ningham, my “ain kind dearie, O” and him or of his business Cycle Wyld. Up edition of this week-long event will be guide for BSG 2004. He is a great skier and down those hills of the Birkie and held in the Rockies and must be paid and absolutely filled with patience. He Kortelopet we traveled. He guides for entirely by the participant. skis right behind me and gives me from the front so is calling direction We hope to be invited back next direction on the upcoming terrain. He by looking back – a talent in itself. Jon year to put on another Chili Dinner even exploded with hearty laughter has had extensive time as a guide as for the club. If you have any sugges- when I fell and got angry with myself, he has skied the Olympics, World tions for improvement, please con- wiped my snow filled face, eyes, and Cup, and Internationals with other tact Don Fariss. Thanks again ears dry, and got us back on track. visually impaired people. everyone! ❄ Participation in the BSG seemed Jim Cunningham and Cindy Easely very low this year compared to 2000. also offered to guide me during this All 20k racers began at the same time race, but since this is their first race, it – no wave starts. There were many is great that they will be able to get supportive comments from fellow their own time. Once again, big thanks MadNorSkiers at the start line. OK so to them for their generous offer –a tes- everyone dusted me from the sound timony to the fact that they put others of the whistle, but hey I was fortunate before themselves. being there skiing with this cool guy There is an excitement in the pit of and gave it my best shot. my stomach as I look forward to the Up and down the trails we raced or upcoming race. It is the excitement of in my case shuffled. The real neat being in that large crowd as they start, Juniors supervise the dessert table…making sure thing was the “old farts” doing the 43k of zooming down hills, of being a hill members finish their chili before taking any! race passing us. Oh they would slow hugger (cuz you know I may spend a their pace a while to chat along the few moments on my side warming route, but in no time, they were out of mother earth), of meeting fellow sight. Maybe during retirement my skiers, and then of course the finish. race time will improve… What a great Last year as a spectator, I stood in a sport that draws folks of all abilities. crowd watching racers come in, there We finally passed the finish and the was a feeling of envy, like someday I standings were being announced. We want to try the Kortelopet. Maybe watched for a while, but the chill crept next year the full Birkie. ❄ up. The call of the warmth of dry clothes drew us to the car. It was from “My ain kind dearie O,” is Scottish and that point of putting on my hiking means my own kind dear. Good luck Starving MadNorSkis line up in an orderly as the boots that we heard the announce- at Kortelopet Kathy! You can do it! Juniors scoop the liquid gold into bowls.

14 ❄ MNSC MARCH 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• Yuriy Wears New Hat • SECOND ANNUAL! • BY STACEY MEANWELL, GIRL SCOUT TROOP 1029 LEADER Fun Day at the fter listen- to double poling Lussier Family Aing to some and the down- of the activities hill schuss. We Heritage I’ve done with had the occa- my Girl Scout sional “yard Center troop, Yuriy sug- sale”, but every- SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2004 gested I take one had great FROM 1-6 P.M. them cross- fun in the country skiing. I process. he Madison Nordic Ski Club will cringed at the To finish our Thost a “Farewell to Winter” party thought of tak- meeting Yuriy featuring orienteering and skiing (if ing 11 girls out set up a team possible) for all ages at the Lussier knowing that 9 relay and then a Family Heritage Center on February had never been mass start race. 29, 2004. We will have the entire facil- on skis before. I Just like the asked Yuriy if he Yuriy Gusev and Stacey Meanwell surround Troop 1029 after a fun Birkie, there ity open for club members free of would like to and eventful day of skiing. (Well, MOST look like they had fun!) were the charge. Please bring the whole family. lead the meeting, and much to my expected collisions and wipeouts. Hot chocolate and chili will be pro- delight, he said “sure!” Bente Skaari (Eva Grutzner), by far vided. After dinner we’ll have a bon- The Elver shelter opened 2 hours the most petite, and with the least fire and a candle-light ski or hike early for us given that they would amount of field-tested glide, surged depending on conditions. finally be able to rent skis for the first ahead to claim the gold with her So, mark your calendars now for a time in almost 3 years. Once the quick tempo. Olivia Oyamada dis- low-key, fun event, that everybody troop was outfitted and assembled, played a fierce double pole that can enjoy. Since we seem to get all Yuriy took the lead. He taught the landed her firmly in the second spot. our snow in March in recent years, girls some coordination and balance Great fun was had by all. So off to we think this could be the best skiing drills disguised as snowflakes and Yuriy. I never would have tackled this of the season! And if the snow deserts snakes. He progressed them rapidly one alone. ❄ us, we’ll still have fun. ❄ 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.

16 ❄ MNSC MARCH 2004 We Take Bikes As Seriously As We Do Skis! We’re your road bike specialists!

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105 N. Main Street • Dousman, WI 53118 Phone: 262-965-4144 • Fax: 262-965-5214 e-mail: [email protected] ...it’s a lifestyle! HOURS: M-F 10-8 Sat. 10-5 Sun. 12-4. From Leery to Elated in 7K Flat

BY JEFF AND JUDY ARCHIBALD

ooking for that tried it, lake skiing is award. Lone race to end a gas (and a good Here’s all races? Then Lap time to practice hoping they the Lake for the your V2). We make this Library (LLL) is the cruised around Big an annual race for you! Bye bye Island, and passed event (Edi- Birkie. Move over the bonfire with tor’s note: Mora. No need for water and energy They are! Nokie. LLL was held drink at about the next year’s on Nelson Lake near halfway mark. In the event is Hayward, WI on Jan distance, the finish slated for 31, 2004. The course was lighted up to Feb. 5). was a GRUELING 7 greet us as we came Night skiing KM designed espe- in. The wide variety is a wonder- cially for those elite of skiers/snow ful way to skiers at the top of shoers (including enjoy win- their game. The cor- Ram (Tom Helke) and Shamrock (Jeff Archibald) kids, recreational ter in the Did we mention that Judy Archibald ners were tight (all line up at the start of the race at dusk... and racers) all north WON FIRST PLACE in her age two of them). The not sure what to expect. seemed to really woods. group? Apparently, the 5 foot long hills were Horrible. enjoy the event. Tying this in she wore didn’t slow “Bitch Hill” would be a joke on this A heated tent after the race pro- with the her down a bit! course. Some hills were a good 9-12 vided chili, hot chocolate and , a annual inches and I'm not exaggerating! Wear MadNorSki favorite, BEER! Awards Weekend Ski Club getaway at Tele- a helmet for your children’s sake! were given to all 1st and 2nd place mark was a great idea and a nice This year’s inaugural event was a finishers in all age groups. All finish- benefit for the local library. In short, fund raiser for the local library. The 7 ers under 12 received a special WE LOVED THIS RACE! ❄ KM course was set for both classical and skating, and lapped the Big Island on Nelson Lake. (Ok, ok, the race was THOUGHTS FROM A FIRST TIME RACER designed for all ages and abilities and BY BARB ROBSON elite skiers were publicly shunned). Both skiers and snowshoers were hen friends Besides, it was welcome. WHarry & Kay beautiful out on the Kay Lum, (A.K.A. Madnorski Lum first mentioned lake. Newsletter Guru) was our hostess the race – Lap the Luminaries flick- for our weekend and heard about the Lake for the Library, ered along the path race from organizer Phil Van Valken- I envisioned myself and people were berg. On race day, after a fun but tir- cheering from the warm and friendly. sidelines. Never I hadn’t been out ing day of skiing on the Telemark one to compete in long when a group trails, Kay bullied us off the couch any sport (espe- of young women and back into our ski duds. She cially one that I’m a skied past. “We forced us to wear that she novice at) I pictured love your outfit,” oh-so-thoughtfully provided. Her hats myself applauding The author, with Tom Helke shortly after the they called. were tastefully subdued as usual. for my friends as race. (It was Tom’s first race too…I think it’s “Thanks!” I yelled Yes, we looked sharp (no, not sharp they crossed the fin- safe to say he had a good time too!) back feeling a smile as in “sharp as a tack”, rather sharp ished line. grow across my as in “pointy headed”). In any event, “Oh come on, you can do it!” Kay face. Then I lowered by voice and Kay’s costumes seemed to entertain pressed. “After all, it’s flat. And it’s confided, “but these tights make the other skiers and even got the only 7K.” me feel like a cow.” attention of a photographer from a After a little more urging, I donned We all laughed and so began new local newspaper. the Holstein patterned tights and friendships. I found that I could keep We got to park on the lake which “udderly” silly matching hat that Kay up with them – Rachel, Kathy and meant we would surely die when our had so thoughtfully provided. BJ. None of them had skied for a cars broke though, or, that we would Once there I started feeling number of years. We had a lot in stay warm while waiting for the start. excited. There was music pumping common – small towns, libraries, Fortunately, the latter occurred. At over the loudspeakers. And an teenagers… They were so pleased 5:20 pm, the race began. Hundreds of occasional announcement blared that we would drive up from Madi- ice “luminaries” lighted the way for about the (delayed) start of the son to help support their library. race. I’d have to say that’s it’s the best the kids, adults and cranky out-of- Finally we were off! Within minutes race I’ve ever participated in. If they towners. The weather cooperated my friends disappeared from sight. have a second, annual LLL it just with temps in the the low teens and Oh well, I thought. It’s good exercise may coincide with my second, little wind. Snow was plentiful and for a great cause. (Did I tell you that annual race. We hope more of you well groomed. In other words, perfect my grandmother was a librarian?) can join us next year! ❄ conditions. For those who haven't

18 ❄ MNSC MARCH 2004 Other Stuff…

Jimmy gives his farewells speech to a stunned audience at the February meeting.

Elver Race organizer Ned Zuelsdorff (right) congratulates Brett Larson and Mikaela Robertson after they Pat Conway came up with this clever little tool to sharpen his were presented with MadNorSki clocks for winning the “predict-your-time” division of the February 10th MadNorSki scraper! When it just says: NOR SKI” perhaps it’s time Elver Tuesday night race. Ned looks a little too happy to finally be getting those clocks out of his house! to purchase a new one from the club, ok? A little MORE SNOW would be NICE!

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MNSC MARCH 2004 ❄ 19 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

MadisonNordicSkiClub THE STAMP P.O. Box 55281 • Madison, WI 53705 GOES RIGHT ABOUT HERE.

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