Snow ski, sand ski, ski swap: Red Mountain Racers are back in action
By Contributor
Winter is blinking her frosty lashes in the Kootenays and it is no better time to start thinking about skiing. Red Mountain Racers will be holding the annual Ski Swap on Halloween Weekend-Saturday 29 October 2011 at Willi Krause Field House in Trail. Gear check in starts at 8:30 and experienced volunteers will be on hand to help you price your gear if you need it.
There is a charge of $1.00/per checked item. Check in continues through 11:00.
Also on hand will be local ski shops selling new gear at reduced prices. Trish Dyer, organizer of the Nancy Greene Ski League will be accepting registrations for new and returning skiers.
“Weʼve really ramped up our program,” enthuses Dyer. “With added benchmarks coaches are aiming towards, kids will really get a sense of progress over the 10 week program. I would also add that I will not only be accepting registrations at the swap, but also fielding any questions the public might have in regards to the program.”
Nancy Greene Ski League is open to kids from 5 to 12 years old who are able to ride Red Chair. The Nancy Greene Ski League is the “FUNdamental” stage of ski racing. During this time they will be introduced to basic skiing techniques and skills, develop the ABC’s(agility, balance, coordination, strength /speed) in as many different snow conditions and terrains as possible and most of all, have fun on skis. Each year the children participate within their club in team and individual competitions. Included in the price are optional races that take place at local hills throughout the area with other Nancy Greene teams.
The focus is on skill development and love of skiing. While the program does have an element of gate and speed training, fostering a love of the sport is the goal.
“With the introduction of Ski Cross elements to all programs”, says Phil Patterson, head coach for Red Mountain Racers, “there will be new challenges and rewards at all levels.”
“Some example of paths that have been followed are: Alpine World Cup, Olympics, Big Mountain Freeskiing, Freestyle,and Snowboard competition, coaching, ski instructing, University racing and scholarship programs. Completing the cycle are now parents of young aspiring skiers!”
For the 2011/2012 season a One day Ski Cross option, is also available (Sundays 9:00-3:00pm) for skiers 10 years and older. This program will work closely with our traditional Sunday program racers and coaches, to prepare for the challenges of ski cross competition.
If you are planning to ski with the Red Mountain Racers this coming season, join us for sandhill training, or would like more information, please contact Phil Patterson. Sandhill training continues each Sunday until the weather stops us ( usually Nov 10).
“Sandhill ” training is in Trail 10:00 -11:30 am, is a fun work out, climbing the slope then running down through a simulated slalom. Come prepared for the weather, bring water, and try and wear older shoes, as they will be full of sand.
More information on all Red Mountain Racer programs will be available at the Ski Swap.
You can check for more information on Nancy Greene registration here or contact Trish Dyer at ngsl@redmountainracers.com
Submitted.
