COLORADO

2006-07 Colorado Cup Announced
Rocky Mountain Nordic announces the second season of the Colorado Cup in conjunction with RMN's new administrative role in the cumulatively scored series of Nordic ski races throughout Colorado. Rocky Mountain Nordic, a division of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA), is the Rocky Mountain region's official governing body for Nordic ski racing. The Colorado Cup's first season took place in the 2005-06 winter and resulted in a successful combination of citizen and elite ski racing, Colorado's best races and the establishment of a body of Nordic competition in the region.

The 2006-07 schedule includes the Snow Mountain Stampede and the Crested Butte Alley Loop-the two biggest and most prestigious ski marathons in the state-as well as the Owl Creek Chase, a 25km freestyle race included in the USSA SuperTour series of national level races. A full schedule of events and details can be found at www.rmnordic.org.

The Colorado Cup's goals are to integrate Nordic races and recreational events in an organized body of events that both serve the racing and recreational skier while also serving to develop and support world-class athletes to compete on the international level. Together with the new Rocky Mountain Nordic Tour events which will allow recreational skiers to enjoy non-competitive events on unique courses throughout the state, the Colorado Cup aims to benefit skiers, racers, ski areas and the sport as a whole. Eventually, Colorado Cup races hope to include juniors, collegiate, masters and elite racers.

Racers in the Colorado Cup earn points based on their finishing place. The points are tallied cumulatively throughout the season based on official USSA five-year age groups and overall categories by gender. At the end of the season, overall male and female winners are declared the Colorado State Champions and age-group winners are named to the RMN Select Team. Overall and age group leaders are identified in each race by special bibs that denote their status.

Summing up the upcoming season, spokesperson Matt Muir says, "We're all excited and the hope is that we can continue to improve Nordic events for everyone involved and for the good of the sport as well."

For more information, contact spokesperson Matt Muir at matt@skifire.com or RMN executive director Ivana Radlova at ivana@rmnordic.org.

Crested Butte Nordic to Host 6th Annual Thanksgiving Training Camp November 24-26
Start the Nordic season off right with cross country ski clinics designed for the beginner to advanced skiers wishing to hone their skate or classical skiing techniques. All abilities are welcome. Both skate skiing and classical skiing clinics will be offered for all levels. The team of expert clinicians includes: 2006 Olympian Rebecca Dussault; former Olympian Ingrid Butts and former Olympic coach, Kendall Butts; Western State Nordic coach, Jesse Crandall; PSIA instructor and Rossignol demonstration team member, Ross Matlock; and CBNC Ski School Director, Jenny Abraham. A Grey Hares Group skate skiing clinic for the over 50 crowd will be offered Saturday along with beginner, intermediate, advanced and women's skate clinics. Other events include wax clinics, backcountry awareness classes and 5k ski and skate races on Sunday.

The training camp will again feature a Nordic Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday evening that benefits the Crested Butte Nordic Center. Join local Nordic supporters to bid on several items, such as two nights at a 10th Mountain Division hut, spa and hot springs lodging packages, private lessons with camp clinicians, and more. Call 349-1707 or email michele@cbnordic.org for more information or to register.

BSA Backcountry Bash
Celebrate winter at the 14th Annual Backcountry Bash on Friday, December 1 at the REI Flagship store in Denver. The event runs from 6:30 to 10:30 pm, features music by Mando Lounge, food and drink, a winter slideshow and live and silent auctions featuring hut stays, telemark skis, AT gear, massages, Avy courses and lots of sweet winter gear. For a complete list of auction items go to www.backcountryalliance.org/fundraisers/2006-donars.php. The Backcountry Bash raises awareness and funds for the Backcountry Snowsports Alliance, a non-profit organization representing winter backcountry recreationalists by advocating for the creation, preservation and management of non-motorized areas on Colorado's public lands. Ticket cost is $25 ($30 at the door) and can be purchased at www.backcountryalliance.org, REI Denver and Boulder or by calling (303)494-5266.

Challenge Aspen Leads Groundbreaking "Ultimate Outdoor Adventure" for Newly Injured Soldiers Challenge Aspen is a charitable organization widely respected for its progressive winter sports programs and a competitive ski race program that draws disabled athletes and participants from all over the world. The "Ultimate Outdoor Adventure" recently welcomed a group of newly injured soldiers - predominately amputees - to hike, raft and climb together in the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon. Managing Program Director, Sarah Williams, led the soldiers on the groundbreaking Challenge Aspen expedition. "This 10-day program was undoubtedly the most powerful experience that we have encountered," Williams says. The group of 16 veterans, physical therapists from Palo Alto Medical Center, Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Brook Army Medical Center and an experienced staff from Challenge Aspen covered 226 miles in motorized boats, maneuvering their prosthetics on day hikes through creek beds and waterfalls.

"For some of the soldiers, it was only a matter of months since their injury," Williams explains. "It was clearly evident that this trip not only challenged their physical abilities, but proved to be a catalyst for emotional and psychological breakthroughs. These guys have been so busy healing that they have all this to learn about real possibilities down the road. The experience was invaluable for all involved, building confidence by adapting and succeeding and ultimately leading to a smoother transition back into society," she adds.

Several of the soldiers were transitioning from a hospital bed to this more practical therapy offered by Challenge Aspen in the unique terrain of the Grand Canyon. "For some, it had only been months since their injury in Iraq or Afghanistan," explains Kristi Say, a Physical Therapist who joined the trip from Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Brian Fountaine, a 24-year old soldier was scheduled to fly out of Iraq on June 10, but on June 8 he was hit by an IED and lost both legs bi-laterally, below the knees. Brian healed well enough to be able to join the trip, but was still very fresh off his injury. "I think that these outings and opportunities challenge more than physical abilities," says Say. "There is only so much that we can do in a hospital or clinical setting. All of the work that they have been doing in physical and occupational therapy is truly tested out there in the 'real world," she explains.

Joey Bozik, a 28-year old was injured in Iraq 18 months ago, suffering a triple amputation. "The Grand Canyon trip came at the perfect time. I was able to let go of all the things that had been weighing me down and just enjoy the nature that was surrounding me. You may never know how much you have helped me, but I will always carry your gracious love for soldiers with me," he wrote in a letter of thanks to the staff of Challenge Aspen.

Another physical therapist that accompanied a group of newly injured soldiers on the excursion offered her perspective on the therapeutic growth on the trip, "It's difficult to put into words what the guys obtained from the opportunity to do "normal" outdoor activities," she says. "Over the course of the trip, many guys appeared to grow in confidence: they attempted new challenges, trying to outdo each other. They also seemed to be less afraid of asking for help and less embarrassed by stumbles or falls. The Challenge Aspen staff/volunteers were instrumental in facilitating this growth, not treating the guys as babies or invalids, but encouraging and providing assistance in dignifying ways."

"Tri-It" Camp for Women
A Workshop for Blind Athletes and Sighted Guides
A fun three-day instructional camp aimed at introducing visually impaired women and sighted guides to the sport of triathlon will be offered April 19-22, 2007 in Glenwood Springs, Colo. Participants will be introduced to basic swim, bike, and run/walk skills necessary to complete a sprint triathlon. Sighted guides and blind athletes will learn the fundamentals of swimming together with a bungee cord, riding together on a tandem bicycle and running together with a tether. The camp will conclude with a mini-tri on Sunday morning.

The camp is open to adventurous blind or visually impaired women who have a desire to learn the sport of triathlon. In addition, courageous sighted women who wish to give the gift of guiding to a visually impaired woman are invited to participate. Visually impaired women are encouraged to recruit and bring their own sighted guides.

Participants should be in good health and complete a physician consent form and waiver prior to camp. Participants should have elementary skills in swimming, biking and run/walking: be able to swim two lengths of a pool freestyle, ride a bike if you are a sighted guide, be able to ride a tandem if you are visually impaired, and be able to walk/run a mile under 20 minutes.

For more information on coaches, costs or how to apply, contact Nancy Stevens at nstevens@sopris.net or call (970) 945-2171.

MICHIGAN

National Ski Championships Heading for Houghton
The nation's top cross country skiers will travel to Houghton, Michigan, in early January for the 2007 U.S. Cross Country Championship. The Michigan Tech Nordic Training Center will host the national championship for cross country skiing January 1-7, 2007.

The event features four days of racing, including distance races on January 3 and 4 and sprint races on January 6 and 7. More than 400 skiers will participate, including many members of the U.S. Ski Team, regional development teams and top collegiate teams.

Spectators will walk on groomed trails leading to virtually any part of the race course. Three web cams will allow distant visitors to log into www.seniornationals.org and track starts and finishes. A huge stadium scoreboard will display results throughout the race day.

Both the 2007 and 2008 championships will be held in Houghton. The races are the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) national Nordic skiing championships. USSA is the national governing body for skiing (both Nordic and alpine) and snowboarding.

The Houghton organizers earned the bid based on the success of the 2006 Junior Olympics (JOs), which were held at Michigan Tech University last March. The JOs serve as the national championship for skiers ages 14-19. More than 350 skiers from around the country attended the week-long series of races.

"The upcoming event is the national championship for cross country skiing in the U.S.," said Mike Abbott, chair of the organizing committee. "With the experience our volunteers and organizers gained at the JOs, I'm confident we will be just as successful with this event."

The cross country championship week begins with two training days, January 1 and 2, before the first races commence on Wednesday, January 3. Skiers will participate in the distance classic races, with men covering a 10km course, while the women will ski 5km.

January 4 features the freestyle races: 10km for women and 15km for men. After a training day on January 5, skiers will race a classic sprint on Saturday, January 6 and participate in a team freestyle spring on January 7. This will be the first time the USSA has held a team sprint at a national championship.

The Michigan Tech Nordic Training Center was designed to be spectator friendly. Many viewing locations are an easy walk, on a groomed trail, from the stadium. Most of the sprint course can be seen from the stadium. The large stadium, including bleachers, allows easy viewing of the start and finish areas.

The newest improvement to the trail system is the Boss Snowplow Nordic Wax Center, added for the Junior Olympics with a generous donation from Boss Snowplow, based in Iron Mountain, Michigan. The center includes ten separate team wax rooms and a community wax room and changing area.

Complete information on the event, and a peek at the webcams, is available at www.seniornationals.org

THE NORTH AMERICAN VASA: A 'FESTIVAL OF RACES' FOR SKIERS OF ALL AGES AND ABILITIES
Bryce Dreeszen has skied in some of the top cross-country races in the U.S. and Europe, but he considers himself an "everyman" skier rather than an elite competitor.

And as the new race director of the North American Vasa Festival of Races in Traverse City, he insists that every skier deserves to have a "world class skiing experience" at the Vasa - whether that skier is a potential Olympic contender, an eager novice or just someone who wants to enjoy some magnificent woodland scenery and a little race-day excitement on one of the best groomed trails in the Midwest.

"We've been working to correct the impression that the Vasa is only for the hard-core competitive skier," he said. "The truth is, we have something for everyone. We expect to have 800 skiers this year, and probably 10 percent or less of them will be elite skiers. The bulk of the people out there will be competing against the clock, against their buddies or against themselves - and some won't be competing at all."

Now in its 31st year, the Vasa is held each February in the pinewoods of Traverse City, Mich. (This year's event is scheduled for Feb. 9-11.) The main Saturday race, which features 12K, 27K and 50K loops, in either freestyle or classic styles, is one of 14 U.S. events listed in the prestigious American Ski Marathon Series, where most of the nation's elite and professional ski racers compete. Sunday's 16K traditional-style race, the Gran Travers Classic, is an equally prestigious event for old-school Nordic skiers, and one of the events in the Michigan Cup classic race series.

Over the past decade, race organizers have added a wide range of other events for skiers of all shapes, ages and skill levels: 1K sprints for preschoolers, 3K freestyle and classic events for older youths, and even noncompetitive 3K and 10K tours for those who prefer to enjoy winter's natural beauty at a more leisurely pace.

And there's a lot of beauty to appreciate. The Vasa is held on a beautifully crafted trail that winds through the dense pines and hardwoods of Michigan's Pere Marquette State Forest, just east of Traverse City. Since 2005, the start and finish lines for the various events have been at the Timber Ridge RV and Recreation Resort, whose trails connect to the main Vasa system.

In addition to the hundreds of skiers who actually head out on the trails, hundreds of spectators come to watch the race and enjoy the festivities that surround it. Over the past three decades, the Vasa has become a treasured part of winter life in Traverse City, and almost everyone in the community seems to participate in it one way or another.

The festival actually begins the day before the main race with registration, social time, and a day-long series of free on-snow equipment demonstrations where participants can try the newest ski and snowshoe gear. That evening, there's an annual "Vasa Pasta" dinner, an all-you-can-eat event where contestants try to pack away as many carbohydrates as possible.

The first races, the 27km and 50km classic competitions, start at 8:30 Saturday morning, followed by 27km and 50km freestyle races, the 12km classic/freestyle race, and finally the 3km and 10km adult touring events. In the afternoon, starting at 12:30 p.m. are the Junior Vasa races, a series of 1km and 3 km competitions for children ages 4-15.

"Junior Vasa skiers will be the Vasa skiers of the future," said the Vasa's executive director, Pete LaPlaca. "Hopefully they'll remember the fun they had on skis in this event, and continue the sport for their entire lives. The smiles on these kid's faces are our reward."

On Sunday, the course is regroomed and turned over to traditional-style skiers. The Gran Travers Classic race, which starts at 9 a.m., features 6km and 16km loops on a tracked trail.

For information about the North American Vasa and other winter events, festivals and activities in beautiful Traverse City, call the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-800-TRAVERSE or visit www.mytraversecity.com.

Michigan's ABR Ski Trails Opens October 14 and 15
An early October snowstorm hit Ironwood, Michigan, a small town of 6,238 people on the Wisconsin border, on October 12, 2006. It ended up dropping about 19 inches of snowfall. The ground was still warm, but blanketed with the white magic which got trail groomer Eric Anderson and his team from ABR Ski Trails to take a gamble and prepare a portion of their 42 km cross country ski trail system for skiing.

"We knew this snow was coming from the weather reports, we just did not know if the folks down south would come up this early. They are biking, golfing and gardening now. We opened October 28 and 29 in 2003, and had over 300 hundred skiers so we figured we would give it a try" says Eric Anderson head groomer and co-owner of ABR. "This weekend we had 219 skiers on Saturday and another 104 on Sunday. Conditions were pretty good on Saturday until the sun came out and the skier traffic wore out the snow in the afternoon. We groomed and opened up another eight-10 km of trails on Sunday, and had good early season skiing on Sunday right up until 6 PM as we closed with the St. Olaf Ski team from Northfield, Minn."

Randy Coleman, an Ironwood native now living in Richland Center, Wis. is the unofficial Nordic ski historian of the Midwest. He cannot remember an earlier opening of groomed skied trails for the Midwest in the last 32 years.

Matt Liebsch, CXC team skier from Minneapolis, Minn., was headed to train on hiking trails and roller skis in Duluth. "I saw they had snow and our team changed plans fast. Skiing on snow trains different muscles and mostly helps motivate us for upcoming season."

Marty Wacker a recreational skier of Stevens Point, Wis. came up to ski and planned to go muskie fishing on the way home on the Turtle Flambeau Flowage. He said has never seen October skiing in his 34 years of skiing.

Ollie Garrison, coach of St. Olaf Ski Team had a weekend planned to dryland train and quickly changed plans to train on snow with his team from Northfield Minn. "The team is ecstatic to be on snow this early, sometimes we have a difficult time finding snow during the main season."

ABR (Active Backwoods Retreats) has just completed 10 years of expansion and refinement. Originally a bare bones cross country ski area with just 12 kilometers of trails, they're now a full-service cross country ski center. This winter you can enjoy 42 kilometers of groomed trails spread over 600 acres, complemented by a ski shop and ski-in/ski-out lodging.

MINNESOTA

Marshall Holiday Ski Camp
The Marshall Holiday Ski Camp for children ages 5-12 will be held on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday December 27, 28 and 29 from 1-4 pm each day at Snowflake Nordic Ski Center in Duluth, Minn. The camp is supervised by the Marshall Nordic Coaching Staff. Instruction is provided by the members of Marshall Nordic High School Team.

Camp registration materials can be found: www.marshallschool.org/school/johnson/marshallholidayskicamp.htm. For more information email Dene Halverson, Marshall Holiday Ski Camp Coordinator at: denesallymarty@aol.com or call (218)729-0008 or (218)590-5013-cell.

What's New on the Gunflint Nordic Ski Trails for this Winter
The Gunflint Trail Winter lodges and ski resorts that began developing the Gunflint Nordic Ski Trails in the 1970s, each year continue to improve and upgrade their trails and the facilities that support the trails. This year is no exception.

In the Upper Gunflint Ski Area winter lodge guests will find several changes. Gunflint Pines Resort notes that this winter the "Pines" will join Gunflint, Bearskin and Golden Eagle Lodges in offering a lit night ski trail. Gunflint Pines' lit trail will run through their campgrounds. Gunflint Lodge plans to have their new Red Peddle Bistro open daily from noon to 9 PM throughout the winter. And according to Lee Kerfoot of Gunflint, five of the lodge's cabins are being renovated; two of which will be open by Christmas. The cabins will feature king beds, hand crafted wood burning fireplaces made of native rocks and super showers with 3 showerheads. At Heston's Lodge one of their log cabins is being restored and will be open for the winter ski season.

Along the Banadad Ski Trail System, Boundary Country Trekking is planning several changes to greet skier this winter. First, a new 1.6 km. tracked trail to the Tall Pines Yurt has been built. According to Boundary Country's Barbara Young, "Skiers on the way to the Tall Pines Yurt will no longer have to travel along the old untracked service road." Near the Banadad's eastern trailhead the Swamp Lake Snowshoe Trail has been expanded with the addition of a new 1/2 km connecting trail section. Boundary Country will also be offering a new luxurious ski-in two-bedroom rental cabin - the Poplar Creek Retreat. The cabin currently is under construction and will be available for rent by the end of January.

Near the Central Gunflint Trail System, Lynn Pauloski co-owner of Clearwater Lodge plans to open the two B&B suite in their historic lodge building and a modern two bedroom cabin this winter. According to Pauloski, this will be the first time in many years that the lodge has been open during the winter. The Lodge is just a short drive from the Central Gunflint ski trails.

The 180-km Gunflint Nordic Ski Trails consist of three interconnected trails systems. Beginning 24 miles up the Gunflint Trail from the Lake Superior coastal town of Grand Marais is the Central Gunflint Trails operated by Golden Eagle and Bearskin Lodges. Further up the Gunflint Trail around Gunflint Lake is the Upper Gunflint Trail System operated by Gunflint, Gunflint Pines, Heston's and Moosehorn lodges. Connecting these two trail systems is the BWCA longest tracked trail - the Banadad operated by Boundary Country Trekking.

For additional information on the Gunflint Nordic Trails and trail maps go to the Gunflint Trail Association's cross country skiing website at - www.gunflint-trail.com/winter/xcski.html or call (218)387-3191 or (800)338-6932.

Lake Superior College Online Sponsors Nordic Spirit Ski Event
Lake Superior College in Duluth, Minn. and LSC Online are the title sponsors of this year's Nordic Spirit Ski Race and Tour. The event will take place on the scenic and challenging Spirit Mountain/Magney-Snively ski trail system on Sunday, January 28, 2007.

The Nordic Spirit Ski Race and Tour is conducted by the Duluth XC Ski Club. It features three race categories: a 10k Classic event and 13 and 25k freestyle races, providing opportunities for both serious racers and recreational skiers.

"We believe that the Nordic Spirit is sure to become a premiere regional sporting event," Barry Dahl, LSC's vice president of technology and the Virtual Campus, explained. "It's a great partnership opportunity for us because of the Duluth XC Ski Club's focus on education and training. It promises to be a high-quality, mid-season race that will attract increasing numbers of skiers to our community."

LSC is a leading provider of online training programs for recreational sports. In recent years the college has offered college credit courses in cooperation with Grandma's Marathon, the American Birkebeiner and the NorthShore Inline Marathon.

For more information about the race visit www.DuluthXC.com. Information about LSC Online and its related physical education classes is online at www.lsc.edu/online.

Maplelag Fall News and Notes
With frost gracing the low lying areas and the first accumulating snowfall forecasted, Maplelag Resort is excited for the 2006/2007-winter season.

New Ski Trail and Nordic Fun Area
Work has been completed on a new intermediate ski trail of approximately 3.3km in length. The trail will be double tracked for classic skiers adding to the extensive network of classic groomed trails at Maplelag. With this new trail the total kilometers of groomed trails at Maplelag is now at 64km. Other cat work this fall included the building of "Mount Maplelag" and the Nordic Fun area. Plans are to enhance the area with rails, barrels, flat box jumps and kickers for the Jib skaters and other Nordic trick-seeking enthusiasts.

High School Ski Camps
Once again, Maplelag will be hosting the popular high school ski camps featuring members of the skinnyski.com racing team the second and third weekends of December. The camps include a classic ski race, clinics covering both classic and skate technique, waxing, training and nutrition seminars and ski games on Sunday. Space is limited so coaches, parents and boosters clubs are encouraged to register early.

Sugarbush Trail Enhancements
The Sugarbush Trail Association has completed the addition of a 6km connector trail and the addition of a 5km cross-country ski trail for skijoring. The extensive 65km Sugarbush Trail cross country ski trail system is located near Tofte, Minn. and is accessed by three trailheads Moose Fence, Britton Peak and Oberg Mountain.

Grooming will continue this year on the 4km Summit View trail for skijoring, which is accessed from the Britton Peak trailhead, 3 miles north of the Sawbill Trail from Tofte. The new 5km skijoring trail will be accessible from the Moose Fence trailhead, 6.5 miles north of the Sawbill Trail from Tofte. This beautiful, rolling trail encompasses the Upland Loop and a portion of the Maple Loop. The new skijoring section will have a one-year trial period.

After three years of overgrowth and non-use, the connector trail from the Sugarbush Trail system to the Lutsen Trail system has been opened again. This 6km connector allows skiers to ski all of the Sugarbush system then proceed to the Lutsen/Tofte Nordic Center at Superior National golf course. From the Nordic center, skiers can then ski an additional 20km to the Cascade trails near Lutsen, Minn.

The Sugarbush Trail Association along with the cooperation of the U.S. Forest Service is also pleased to announce the expansion of the parking lot at the Britton Peak trailhead near Tofte, Minn. The popular trailhead, which is two miles north of the Sawbill Trail from Highway 61, is used to access the 65km Sugarbush ski trail system along with the Superior Hiking Trail.

The existing parking lot has been expanded to accommodate an additional 20 vehicles. Future improvements scheduled for completion include a three-sided information kiosk, a donation box and a handicap accessible toilet.

Hikers, on their way to Britton Peak, Carlton Peak or the Superior Hiking Trail will find more room for their vehicles. In the winter, cross country skiers will enjoy the additional space provided, instead of parking out to the Sawbill Trail.

More information on the Sugarbush ski trails is located at www.sugarbushtrail.org

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Tom Stark and Alice Nelson Win Great Glen Trails Nordic Sprint Race
Tom Stark of Fitzwilliam,N.H and Alice Nelson of Hanover, N.H, were the men's and women's winners of first place at the Great Glen Trails Sprint Race at Pinkham Notch, N.H.

Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center hosted the race following the cancellation of other races originally scheduled in Vermont. The race was held on a .5 km loop made up of entirely machine made snow. More than 50 skiers from nearly 30 cities and towns from across New England participated, including college racers from the University of New Hampshire, Bates College, Middlebury College, Bowdoin College, Colby College and high school racers from Gould Academy, Vermont Academy, Putney Ski Club, Gunstock Nordic Association, Kennett High School and Gorham High School.

Christmas on Snow at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center and the Androscoggin Valley Bill Koch Youth Ski League will host Christmas on Snow on Saturday, December 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Christmas on Snow is a daylong celebration for kids filled with fun holiday activities on snow at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center.

"Christmas on Snow is a great event for families, and we hope to see lots of kids enjoying the snow this weekend," said Mary Power, Events Director at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center.

Christmas on Snow includes: Trim the Tree - create an ornament and ski it out to the Great Glen Trail Christmas Tree; Snowman Building Contest - prizes awarded for the best snowman; Reindeer Relay - cross country ski race with teams of two at 1:00 p.m.; Scavenger Hunt - ski from clue to clue. and collect tokens to be redeemed for prizes. The fee for Christmas on Snow is $2.00 for kids and adults with trail pass.

For more information about Christmas on Snow go to www.greatglentrails.com or call (603)466-2333.

Women's Winter Escape at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center
Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center announces the Women's Winter Escape on January 12 - 13, 2007. A snow country getaway for women only, this new event is designed by women for women and will feature cross country ski clinics, wine tasting, a fashion show, yoga, dog sled rides and more.

Women's Winter Escape is a women-only winter getaway focused on fun, relaxation and learning. Featuring world-class instruction from former Olympians and NCAA All-Americans, the cross country ski clinics are designed for all ability levels.

"There aren't enough opportunities for women to come together to enjoy the outdoors," said Mary Power, Events Director Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center. "Women's Winter Escape is a chance to getaway from it all, relax, share some laughs and be healthy."

The cost is $130 per person, which includes meals. Special lodging packages available are at the Lodge at Jackson Village. For more information contact Mary Power at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center (603)466-2333.

Great Glen Trails Snowmaking Begins and Opening Day Close Behind
Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center began snowmaking operations on Sunday, December 3 and planned to open for skiing the following Friday or Saturday.

"Opening day is always special," said Howie Wemyss, General Manager of Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center. "We're fortunate to have a snowmaking system that allows us to offer skiing before the natural snow falls, and we can't wait to see people out there taking advantage of it this weekend."

Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center will continue making snow throughout the week and the official opening day will be announced on their website, www.greatglentrails.com. When the Center does open, they should be the first Nordic ski area in New England to do so.

Along with opening day, Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center is hosting two events this week: Winter Warm Up Open House and Nordic Sprint Race presented by Atomic.

Winter Warm Up Open House, Thursday, December 7, 6:00pm - 8:00pm: An evening full of information and ideas to get skiers ready for the upcoming season: Clothing and equipment updates, training and nutrition, a wax clinic and a slideshow from the 2006 Olympics. The Great Glen Outfitter Store will also be open.

Nordic Sprint Race presented by Atomic, Saturday, December 9, 12:00pm: The first race of the season in New England. Sprints are the most exciting Nordic race format in New England, the United States or Europe. This sprint race is for all ages and abilities. The format is individual, freestyle. The entry fee will cover an afternoon trail pass: good from 12-4 PM. This is an ideal spectator event!! Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers.

For more information about snowmaking, opening day or events, call (603)466-2333 or go to www.greatglentrails.com.

Norsk is Back
Norsk, which closed at its previous location last year, is back with a new base of operations at Dexter's Inn, 258 Stagecoach Road, Sunapee.

The new Norsk is collaboration between Dexter's Inn and Norsk Outdoors. John and Maureen Chiarella will be building and maintaining the trails and staffing the shop. Dexter's Inn is the owner of the facility and will own the ski operation as well. There are five landowners who are also allowing access to their land. Dexter's Inn is surrounded by lands protected by conservation easements, so there are no concerns about future developments affecting the trails.

Plans call for the opening of 15 kilometers of trails groomed for classic skiing with more ungroomed trails available on conservation land surrounding the Inn. The trails are gentle by the Inn with some great intermediate and advanced terrain outside of the inner ring. The Inn offers fantastic views, great food and a relaxing environment.

"Dexter's has almost everything that we had wished for in the old Norsk and amazing potential as a ski and recreation center. This is like Vermont skiing, but a lot farther East," said an optimistic John Chiarella.

Ski and snowshoe packages will be available for rental and a small retail shop with hats, gloves and waxes will also be available. Lessons will be offered on Saturday morning and by appointment.

For more details visit www.norskoutdoors.com.

JACKSON SKI TOURING ANNOUNCES MAJOR CROSS COUNTRY SKI EVENTS FOR 2006-2007 SEASON
New this year is a unique art display of 50 photographs of the hands of prominent New England Cross Country Skiers, by photographer Sally Taylor. The photos will be on display at the Jackson Ski Touring Center Base Lodge from November 19 - December 1, 2006. There are 50 photos on the display, of these approximately 25 will remain at Jackson Ski Touring throughout the winter; the remaining will be available for viewing at the New England Ski Museum. There is no charge to view the photographs; the public is encouraged to stop by during operating hours.

On January 20, the third annual White Mountain Classic 30K marathon race and tour will be held at Jackson Ski Touring. A major fundraiser for the valley-wide Junior Nordic ski program, this race is now a part of the NENSA (New England Nordic Ski Association) marathon series. Registration is online at www.skireg.com.

On January 26 and 27, 2007 the UNH Winter Carnival Races will be held at Jackson. The 31st Annual Jackson Jaunt Citizens Race will also be run on January 27. On January 28, the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation will be hosting this year's New England Women's XC Ski Day. Held at different locations in New England each year, this event offers a day of cross country skiing for women, by women. Activities include clinics, workshops, lunch, a raffle and an optional fun one km relay race with prizes. Proceeds from this event will benefit Starting Point, which provides services for victims of domestic violence in Carroll County, New Hampshire. For more information and to register for this event, go online to www.nensa.net.

February brings the second annual "Hearts of Jackson" Inn Tour on Sunday, February 11, 2007 from 12:00 - 4:00 pm.

Participants can ski, snowshoe or drive from inn to inn, stopping along the way for a surprise "heart" themed treat or gift. Everyone will be greeted with warm hospitality by the local innkeepers and will have an opportunity to tour the different inns. Maps will be provided and a small commemorative gift will be given to all participants of the tour. The inns on the Heart Proceeds from this event benefit the American Heart Association. The Hearts of Jackson Tour is limited to 150 people and reservations are recommended. The cost of the tour is $25 per person, which includes a trail pass, and a small commemorative gift. To sign up for the Heart Tour, call the Jackson Ski Foundation at (603) 383-9355 or e-mail the Touring Center at info@jacksonxc.org.

Some of the country's finest college Nordic skiers will be competing in Jackson during the NCAA National Collegiate Cross Country Ski Championships, on March 7-9, 2007. This prestigious event features 78 of the top cross country collegiate skiers in the United States. The competition was held previously in Jackson both in 1984 and 1995. The Alpine ski events will be held at nearby Attitash Mountain, in Bartlett New Hampshire. Spectators are encouraged to attend the races, which provide exceptional access and viewing opportunities to the public.

NEW YORK

BRINGING THE MAGIC OF SNOW TO DOUBLE H KIDS WITH LIFE-THREATENING ILLNESSES
The Double H Ranch, A Hole in the Wall Camp, in Lake Luzerne, New York is kicking off the 10th year of its Adaptive Winter Sports Program. The Adaptive Winter Sports Program is available to Double H kids and their families, free of charge, starting the first weekend in January through the first weekend in April and includes five family sleepover weekends. The slopes and trails are theirs alone to ski, (Alpine and cross country), snowboard, snowshoe, sled and simply enjoy outdoor sports in a safe environment utilizing volunteer ski instructors and ski patrollers. The private mountain setting offers two trails, a double chair lift, snowmaking and a wide array of adaptive ski equipment.

In its 14th year of operation the Double H Ranch, A Hole in the Wall Camp founded by Charles R. Wood and Paul Newman, provides summer and winter outdoor Adirondack adventures for children between the ages of 6 - 16 (summer) and 6 - 18 (winter) living with cancer, blood disorders, and neuromuscular impairment. These children are precluded from attending other camps due to their medical condition. The Double H also offers family-based support weekends in the spring and fall for families facing critical illnesses and the loss of loved ones. All programs are completely free of charge.

Gore Mountain has partnered with the Double H for the winter program since its inception, providing training for the instructors and 'Gore Days' for the kids free-of-charge. "We look forward to continuing to provide training for the Double H instructors as well an opportunity for the Double H kids to further challenge themselves on our trails," remarks Dave Bulmer, Mountain Services Manager at Gore Mountain.

For more information about supporting the 2007 Adaptive Winter Sports Program at the Double H Ranch contact Linda T. Smith, 518-696-5921, ext. 238, lsmith@doublehranch.org or visit www.doublehranch.org.

Lapland Lake Ladies Day - February 3, 2007
A women's-only cross country ski day will be offered at Lapland Lake Cross Country Ski Center on Saturday, February 3 from 10:30am - 3:30pm. Lapland Ladies Love to Ski is offered to beginner and intermediate level skiers who will be grouped by ability. The focus this day is on classic technique.

Led by Lapland Lake's PSIA-certified instructors Sherry Dixon and Susan Henriksson, the program includes morning instruction, lunch with fashion and equipment discussion, afternoon fun ski with instructors, group wrap-up and hot beverage. Cost for the five-hour program is $30.00. Facility use pass and rental equipment, if needed, is additional. Advance reservations are recommended for this popular program.

Interested individuals may visit www.laplandlake.com or call(518) 863-4974 for further information.

JANUARY FUN AT LAPLAND LAKE NORDIC VACATION CENTER!
Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center will host several special events during the month of January.

Winter Trails Day - Saturday, January 6, 1:00 - 4:30pm
Winter Trails is a national event that offers those new to snow sports an opportunity to try snowshoeing and/or cross country skiing for the first time free of charge. Facility use pass, equipment rentals and instruction are complimentary! Pre-registration is required.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend
Saturday, January 13 will feature a snowshoe tour to benefit Lapland Lake's Volunteer Nordic Ski Patrol. The tour will be led by Mike Kazmierczak, licensed guide and Tubbs Snowshoe representative. Participants will meet at 3:30pm at the resort's "Finnish Line" Lodge for equipment fitting, compliments of Tubbs Snowshoes. At 4:30pm Mike will lead the group over Lapland Lake's scenic snowshoe trail system, stopping by to enjoy a mug of Glogg (hot mulled wine) or hot chocolate at a lakeside campfire. The tour will conclude at 6:30pm. If desired, dinner service is available at the resort's Tuulen Tupa Grill where a menu featuring Finnish specialties, American and vegetarian fare is served until 7:30pm. Dinner reservations are advised; cost of dinner is not included in the program. Space is limited; pre-registration is required.

On Sunday, January 14 two back country tours, one for snowshoeing and one for back country skiing, will be led by Mike Kazmierczak, licensed guide and representative of Karhu Skis and Tubbs Snowshoes. The tours will gather at the Benson Trailhead of the Northville-Lake Placid Trail with the back country ski group meeting at 9am, touring from 10:00am-noon and the snowshoe tour meeting at 1pm, touring from 2:00-4:00pm. Mike will demonstrate how a prepared pack should be stocked and how individuals should prepare for a wilderness outing. Skiers should bring their own backcountry equipment, or minimally, should have 75mm back country boots. Snowshoers should wear waterproof, insulated boots - snowshoes will be provided. All participants should have prior experience with backcountry skiing or snowshoeing and should bring water and a snack. Tours are free of charge compliments of Karhu Skis and Tubbs Snowshoes. Limited space is available; pre-registration is required.

Monday, January 15 is Lapland Lake's annual Dynamite Demo Day. One of the resort's most popular events of the season, Demo Day takes place from 9am-4pm and features representatives from major manufacturers including Atomic, Karhu, Rossignol, Swix & Tubbs Snowshoes. Guests may sample equipment from these companies free of charge. Lapland Lake's Volunteer Ski Patrol will host a fund-raising BBQ from noon-2pm. Weekend facility use fees apply on this holiday Monday.

Lapland Ladies Love to Ski - Saturday, January 20
From 10:30-3:30 beginner and intermediate level female skiers will receive instruction in classic technique, enjoy lunch with an equipment and fashion discussion, participate in a social group ski and enjoy a group wrap up at the end of the day with a hot beverage. The program is led by Lapland Lake's PSIA-certified instructors Sherry Dixon & Susan Henriksson. Cost for the five-hour program is $30 per person. Rental equipment, if needed, and facility use fee are additional. Space is limited; pre-registration is required.

Napa Kiikku, a Finnish children's ice sled ride
12:30am - 2:00pm every Saturday and Sunday as well as the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday Monday. Visiting with the resort's domesticated reindeer is also fun! Ski lessons for all abilities are available daily, and popular Kids' Clubs instructional sessions are offered every Saturday and Sunday as well as the holiday Monday (lesson reservations are advised). Lunch and snacks are available daily.

Tubing & Ice Skating
Every Saturday evening beginning December 30, 4km of beginner and intermediate trails, tubing on the resort's junior hill and ice-skating will be illuminated from 4:30-9pm. A popular lakeside campfire under the stars is a delightfully romantic destination. Skiers holding a same-day facility use pass or enjoying dinner at the resort's Tuulen Tupa Grill receive free illuminated night skiing, tubing and ice-skating. Dinner service will also be offered Sunday, January 14.

For a 24-hour taped condition report at 800-453-SNOW, or contact Lapland Lake's main office for further information at (518) 863-4974; or visit www.laplandlake.com.

Skijor Training Camp to be Held in Lake Placid
Registration has opened for the Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club (PSDC) and Down East Sled Dog Club (DESDC) first annual Mushing USA Skijor Training Camp and Clinic in Lake Placid, New York on New Year's weekend 2006/2007.

The training camp will be hosted by the Olympic Sports Complex venue in Lake Placid. Camp registration is open to 20 skijor participants and 20 Nordic ski participants. The camp will include one daily skijor session, two daily skate skiing sessions and two evening lectures. Nordic ski instruction and workouts will be facilitated by Nordic ski coaches with national, collegiate and high school coaching experience. The camp will also feature a European Nordic coach, sponsored by the Norwegian and Swedish National Federation for Sled Dog Sports.

This is a great opportunity for Nordic skiers to get some hands-on experience with skijoring and also taking advantage of three days of skate ski technique work.

For more information contact: Jason G. Sperry, P.E., (315) 451-0875, jsperry@brierleyassociates

Early Season Fun at Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center!
Lapland Lake Cross Country Ski Center celebrates its 29th anniversary season with several exciting activities during the months of November and December.

The resort's Annual Open House and Equipment Sale takes place over two days, Friday and Saturday, November 24th and 25th from 9:00am-4:30pm each day. Visitors are welcome to visit with the Finnish style vacation center's two domesticated reindeer that will be welcoming guests at their lakeside home!

Open House is free of charge to visitors. Daily facility use passes to cross country ski, snowshoe, tube and ice-skate on November 24 and 25 will be offered two-for-one for adults and free for children through age 15. If there is no snow, attendees are welcome to enjoy free hiking on the resort's 50km private trail system. An outdoor barbecue will be held from noon-2pm both days.

Lapland Lake's 29th Annual Reindeer Roundup Pursuit Cross Country Ski Race will take place Saturday, December 16 at 10am. Participants will ski a total of 10 kilometers, the first 5km using the classic ski technique immediately followed by 5km of freestyle technique. Open to all skiers, the event is an Empire State Games Qualifier. Day of race registration will take place from 8:00-9:30am. Recreational skiers not participating in the race and arriving at the resort before 11am will receive a discounted facility use pass.

The Empire Orienteering Club will host a Ski Orienteering Race at Lapland Lake on Saturday, December 23. Participants navigate through a series of points on a prearranged cross country ski course and are timed as individuals or as group members. The race is an Empire State Games Qualifier. An abbreviated 2-3km course will be available and appropriate for juniors and adult first-timers. Registration takes place from 10am-Noon; the $10.00 entry fee includes day-long use of the resort's ski and snowshoe trails, ice-skating pond and jr. tubing hill.

On Christmas Day, Monday, December 25, Lapland Lake's xc ski and snowshoe trails, ice-skating pond, jr. tubing hill, warming lodge and rental and retail shops will be open from 11:00am-4:30pm.

Saturday, December 30 marks the start of Lapland Lake's Finn-tastic Saturdays. Illuminated night skiing, tubing and ice-skating are offered until 9pm every Saturday until March 24. Lakeside campfires are featured along with dinner service at the resort's Tuulen Tupa Grill until 7:30pm. Night facility use passes are complimentary to dinner guests and to those holding a same-day facility pass.

Interested individuals may visit online at www.laplandlake.com or call the resort's 24-hour taped condition report at 800-453-SNOW, or contact Lapland Lake's main office for further information at (518) 863-4974.

OHIO

OHIO STATE PARK RESORTS ANNOUNCE COLD-WEATHER VACATION PACKAGES
Xanterra Parks & Resorts operates seven Ohio State Park Resorts. During the 2006/2007 winter months a selection of value-added and theme vacation packages will be offered. Travelers with have the opportunity to explore the many cold-weather recreational offerings of Ohio's state parks, including cross country skiing, bird watching and simply relaxing in a cozy chair by a roaring fire.

"Winter weather in Ohio can range from crisp to blustery, so the resorts offer a variety of indoor and outdoor pastimes," said Sabreena Beaverson, director of reservations for Ohio State Park Resorts. "Those of us who work in the parks look forward to the winter months not only because the parks are incredibly beautiful, but also because there is simply so much to do if you have a sense of adventure."

Xanterra Parks & Resorts operates the lodges at Maumee Bay, Salt Fork, Mohican, Hueston Woods, Punderson Manor, Shawnee and Burr Oak State Park Resorts. Resorts are located within an easy drive of the region's major cities including Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo, Detroit, Pittsburgh and others.

A complete listing of packages can be found at www.atapark.com or calling 1-800-AT-A-Park (1-800-282-7275. In addition to published packages, Ohio State Park Resorts frequently offer last-minute specials called "Hot Dates" via the web site.

VERMONT

December 16-17 Eastern Cups Cancelled
With a very minimal snow base to begin with and weather forecasts that are calling for rain showers and warmer temperatures, the decision has been made to cancel this weekend's races.

Mother Nature has not stepped up quite enough just yet.
NENSA has decided to waive its normal 50% cancellation policy and refund the entire fee and processing fee for those who have already signed up and paid. If racers have not received a credit on their bank or credit card statement by January 1, please contact Pat Cote at pat@nensa.net.

For those still looking for a race, there are races (Coupe Atomic) on Saturday and Sunday at Foret Montmorency, about 1 hour north of Quebec City. Registration is open through Wednesday evening and can be done online at: http://www.zone4.ca/ These races will feature the top skiers from Quebec so the field should be strong. Though snow is only marginal, that the races will happen. Visit the NENSA website, www.nensa.net, for more details as they become available.

Vermont Skiing, Maple Syrup and B&B's
If you're planning a ski trip to Vermont one way to experience the local "flavor" is to stay at one of five maple syrup farms that also serve as B&Bs. Each is located near a major ski resort and provides a quintessential Vermont breakfast, complete with maple syrup made right on the premises.

The five B&Bs are: Kedron's Sugar Makers B&B, South Woodstock; Couture's Maple Shop and B&B, only two hours from Montreal; Top Acres Farm B&B, South Woodstock; Hillsboro Sugarworks, Hillsboro Mountain; and Maple Crest Farm B&B. The "2007 Ski & Maple Map & Guide" covers both Nordic and downhill ski centers and shows where the nearest sugarhouses are. Free copies can be obtained by calling the Vermont Department of Tourism & Marketing at 800-837-6668 and are also available at all Vermont Welcome Centers and Chambers of Commerce.

News from Craftsbury Nordic Ski Center
Facility improvements
A new yurt has been purchased that will serve as race headquarters away from the bustle of the Touring Center. The trails are seeing a major revamp as well to accommodate the increasing skier numbers, higher speeds and to prepare for minimal snow situations. The Touring Center is undergoing a renovation as well.

Season Passes
Season pass deals for individuals and families will be available before December 1 through the Center. The Craftsbury Nordic Ski Club will again be selling multi-area passes including Craftsbury and three areas in Stowe.

Events
Craftsbury has a winter calendar of events that starts in early December with the traditional Craftsbury Opener, the Sled Dog Race Weekend and Marathon in January, Family Fun Week in February, and Spring Fling in March.

Marathon Marathon Marathon
The TD Banknorth Craftsbury Marathon will take place on Saturday, January 27, 2007. Craftsbury and surrounding communities have backed this event with nearly 200 volunteers and local businesses have partnered with the race to create the famous food stations along the course.

Every year more women participate in the marathon thanks to the special Women's Race within the Marathon. If you're not sure if you're ready to enter the 25 to 50 Km events, check out Craftsbury's list of Frequently Asked Questions. A three-month Craftsbury Marathon training plan as well as individual coaching are available.

Online registration opened in November and the maximum of 1,000 racers will fill quickly. Non- racing family members are encouraged to sign up as volunteers, get a t-shirt and be entered in a special drawing for merchandise prizes. For more information on the marathon visit: www.craftsbury.com/skiing.

WANTED: Paid Coaching Internship. Nordic Coach. Green Mountain Valley School. Waitsfield, VT
Coach with one of the country's premier high school Nordic programs and one of the leading high school coaches in the U.S., former Norwegian National Team member and world champion, Jon Arne Enevoldsen. The GMVS team is growing and assistance is needed in the development of younger junior skiers. This will be a great learning environment for any coach. Must be an accomplished skier, knowledge of both classic and skate skiing technique, dryland training, waxing and competition a necessity. Practices to be designed to work with coach's schedule. Ten to 20 hours per week, December 1-April 1. Excellent pay package commensurate with experience, food/meals covered at school. Great parental and school support.

If interested, contact Jon Arne Enevoldsen at (802) 583-7836 or via email at jenevoldsen@gmvs.org.

WYOMING
AJ De Rosa's Wooden Boat River Tours Launches Wildlife Snowshoe Adventures AJ De Rosa's Wooden Boat River Tours has recently launched a new one-of-a-kind winter business - Wildlife Snowshoe Adventures. In keeping with his signature level of customer service and expertise, guests will enjoy an exhilarating walk through the forest, which leads them to a cozy tipi on the banks of the Snake River. Inside the tipi a warm fire crackling in the wood stove, warm beverages and a hot lunch await. Abundant wildlife, including moose, deer, elk and eagles abound and hikers will revel in the beauty and solitude of this unique wooden snowshoe tour.

AJ De Rosa, a guide and outfitter for over 30 years has always had a passion for sharing his knowledge and expertise of the natural surroundings. "We wanted to provide our winter guest with the same quality experience of our popular wooden boat tours," said owner AJ De Rosa. "We allow the guest to step back in time to travel through the woods as the first explorers did with the support of modern day luxuries."" "It's an extraordinary winter experience to be outside in this beautiful valley and find yourself in a setting in which all you see and hear is your natural surroundings," said Tony. He added, "Over the past several years AJ and his staff have provided us with many wonderful outdoor experiences and their knowledge of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is extensive."

AJ has chosen wooden snowshoes in order to reflect back at traditional materials and craftsmanship. AJ humbly says, "I'm just a traditionalist at heart." For more information on wildlife snowshoe adventures visit www.woodboattours.com.

wisconsin

Inaugural CXC Youth Festival - Saturday, December 30
Central Cross Country Ski Association is pleased to announce the inaugural CXC Youth Festival at the Hayward Golf and Tennis Club on Saturday, December 30, 2006 from 2:00pm to 4:30pm.

Live entertainment, organized children's activities, dog sledding, horse-drawn hay wagon rides and a dazzling fireworks display will highlight the event.

Hot chocolate and popcorn will be available on site to keep you warm. Registration and Bib pick-up will be held from 2 to 2:15 p.m. Saturday, December 30, 2006 at the Hayward Golf and Tennis Club located on the North Edge of the City of Hayward at 16005 Witter Street. The fee for children 12 and under is $5.00 and paid upon registration at the site.

"This will be a very exciting atmosphere for children under 12 years old and their parents as well. CXC has been planning for this type of event for a long time and finally it will happen right before New Year's Eve. This Youth Festival will be a fun season opener for many youth programs in our region. The combination of the Youth Festival as an opener and Barnebirkie as a season finale will outline a fun season for our youth skiers," commented Yuriy Gusev, Chief Executive Officer of Central Cross Country Ski Association.

Event Schedule
2:00-2:15 - Registration and BIB pick-up
2:15-3:15 - Play Stations and Activity Areas
(To include: games and contests; inflatable bouncing rides; dog sledding; horse drawn hay wagon rides and more)
3:15-3.30 - Break (A bell will ring signaling everyone to gather at the start area)
3.30-4:00 - Nordic Jam Fun 500m Race-everyone is a winner!
4:00-4:15 - Fireworks
4:30 - A Bell will Ring "Good By!"

For further details and a downloadable colorful Youth Festival flyer visit www.cxcskiing.org.

CANADA

Manitoba Loppet
The town of Pinawa Manitoba will host the 31st Manitoba Loppet and Ski Fest. The two-day event includes activities for both families and competitive skiers. Saturday January 27 is Ski Fest day with clinics for adults and several family friendly races including: a relay, individual sprint, obstacle course and a scrabble derby. Sunday, January 28 is the Loppet day with distances of 3 and 6 km for youth, and 15 km, 25 km and 50 km for adults. Pre-registration is required to compete in the 50 km distance. More information is available at www.ccski.mb.ca/events_information.htm.