It has been many years since we have had a start to the winter season like we are seeing this year. But there is decent coverage to be had if you look hard enough. The forecast comes and goes promising 6-8 inches and we only get a dusting in the Valley. But somewhere in the high country that 6-8 inches is happening and we have enough to be out each day on everyday skis, maybe not our best but beyond our rock skis now. If I can glide down the hills with confidence that I won’t be screeching to a halt on rocks or bare patches, it just reminds me of ski days in New England where I taught weekends in Hollis NH. This week, one of the High School Nordic guys hit a bare patch in the dark and smashed onto his knees but, like the trooper he is, kept on going…
Grand Nordic has given all the used skis donated over the last couple of years to the school Nordic teams. Coaches have changed bindings as needed and handed them out for the kids to continue to practice without damaging their competition skis. In early season, dryland strength and balance training and just time on skis is a huge priority. Conditions are rarely the most favorable but I commend these kids and particularly the coaches and other parent helpers for finding every way possible to get out there – no excuses! Just save the good skis for the good snow!
Blue ridge and trails in the shadow of Blue Ridge are in good shape – YMCA staff has rolled the trails with great success. Mostly the snow depth is not enough for tracks yet but strengthen your legs and force or step your own turns. Learn to shift your body weight and your turns will be much improved as the conditions improve. Keep working on technique – the SMR Annual Classic Race is coming up Jan 6 followed on Sunday Jan 7 by Grand Nordic Free Lessons and inaugural Demos-Burgers-and Beer Social joint event by Boulder Nordic, Boulder Nordic Sport, Grand Nordic, and Snow Mtn Ranch. See these and more on our event calendar www.granddnordic.org.
