Ski and Tea Clinic #1 is a Huge Success!
October 11th was the first of five women’s specific ski clinics hosted by Ski and Tea to benefit the CXC Elite Women’s Team. The clinic was held at the Birkie Trailhead on 00 Road in Seely, WI. The weather was perfectly sunny and the fall colors were at their best. An impressive 25 participants showed up, foreshadowing huge potential for the remaining clinics.
The topic of the clinic was, “Fundamental Movements of Cross-Country Skiing,” presented by Maria Stuber, CXC Elite and XC Ski Alliance team member. Participants gathered in the warm up building at 8 AM for refreshments and introductions. The first portion of the clinic focused on a classic skiing dry-land technique progression involving double polling, kick double poling, and striding. Next, the group moved to a similar progression for skate skiing technique. Some of the veteran skiers fine-tuned their skate technique, while others worked on the timing of open-field, V1, and V2. Finally, the group strapped on their ski boots and roller skis and hit the pavement. About half of the clinic participants tried roller skiing for the first time and no one left disappointed! Beginners spent time working on glide and weight transfer, while the experienced roller skiers did some drills to develop their V2 technique. The Hayward High School Ski Team graciously loaned out their set of roller skis for clinic participants to use.
The CXC Women’s Team is ecstatic to be a part of this women’s specific skiing project. What the Ski and Tea group has created is MUCH more than a series of clinics. Mutually beneficial relationships between community-based groups and elite athletics can have a huge impact on the development of cross-country skiing in the USA. To progress as a nation, it is important to develop strong cross-country ski communities and to bridge the “interest gap” between recreational skiing and top level racing. The partnership between Ski and Tea and the CXC Women’s team is an innovative and powerful way to accomplish this.
In addition, Ski and Tea is creating new training opportunities for women, introducing active women to the sport of cross-country skiing, and inspiring women to push themselves and try new things. Hats off to Ski and Tea for everything they are doing to make a difference in the cross-country skiing community!
