American Birkebeiner

Westby, Wis., January 10, 2010 - Snowflake Nordic Ski Club held its first practice January 4th from 3:45-5:00 at Snowflake Ski and Golf Club. This first session proved to be a huge success with over 30 kids in attendance!

After a brief introduction about the program and the handing out of close to 20 pairs of rental skis, the kids geared up and headed out on the new trails for some fun on skis. The kids were then split into 4 separate groups based on age, specific lesson plans were followed for each of the various groups. Snowflake Nordic will be following the CXC (Central Cross Country Ski Association) curriculum, developed by the CXC elite team based out of Hayward, Wisconsin. The progressive curriculum focuses on creating a fun and rewarding learning environment through the use of various activities and on snow games. Skiers spent close to one hour working on various drills and practicing their technique. After the on snow session, kids were greeted with a cup of hot chocolate and a healthy snack.

Snowflake Nordic Ski Club would like to thank the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation and the existing Snowflake Junior Ski Club for their generous donations used towards the purchase of the programs ski equipment. They would also like to recognize the Snowflake Senior Club for their strong support of the program and the Westby Rod and Gun Club for the use of the warming facility.

The club is looking forward to future developments with a proposed trail expansion, including a lighted loop and 2 kilometer snow making loop.