Date: February 15, 2003
Time: 11:00
am to 12:30 pm
Where: Skyway
Nordic Trailhead
Who Should Attend: First time and novice skiers who want to learn the basics of classic cross-country skiing in a laid back environment. The clinic will emphasize fundamental techniques for stopping, striding, fall recovery, balance, pole usage, hill negotiation, and trial etiquette. All clinic attendees will need to sign a release form prior to clinic commencement. Arrival at Skyway by 10:30 am is recommended. The Clinic will start promptly at 11:00 am.
What to bring: Skiers need to bring a pair of cross-country ski poles, boots and skis plus appropriate clothing. The skis can be light touring to back country models. Racing skis and telemark skis will work but could be encumbering in a clinic environment.
Proper clothing will aid in getting the most from the clinic. We recommend that all clothing be in thin layers. Avoid heavy and bulky downhill skiing clothing. The use of cotton clothing is not recommended as it holds water against the skin, which results in chilling. For the upper body it is best to wear a thin base layer, followed by a medium layer all of which is covered by a shell jacket. The lower layer should consist of a thin base layer covered with a shell pants. A warm hat, sunglasses, and two pair of gloves complete the recommended ensemble. An extra thin or medium layer for the upper body should be brought to compensate for the variable weather on Grand Mesa.
Recommend skin protection is lip balm, and sunscreen if the day is lightly overcast or sunny.
Other trail essentials: Cross-country skiing is vigorous activity. Trial side snacks to maintain your energy are a good idea. Crackers, fresh fruit, energy bars, and lots of water are just some of the options. A small backpack provides a good way to carry food, water and extra clothing, as well as other persona; items.
Cautions:
Grand Mesa at the Skyway trailhead is over 10000-feet above sea level
(2-miles). The air is thin and typically dry. It is easy to overly tire ones
self quickly at this altitude. To avoid this situation you should watch your
breathing rate if light-headedness, hard breathing, or dizzy feelings occur
stop immediately and try to sit down. Start drinking small sips of water, but
avoid food until these symptoms pass. Let the clinic instructor know what’s
happening as well.
Consult with a physician prior to attending the
clinic if you are uncertain as to your ability to ski at this location.
Instructors:
the three clinic instructors are Eric Krch, Polly Pulver and Joe Ramey. All
three are avid cross-country skiers who feel that besides being the best sport
on the planet, it is one to be shared with others. We look forward to seeing
you on February 15, 2003. We will do our best to aid you in pursing
cross-country skiing and hope you find it as rewarding as we do.
If you have any questions or need directions to
Skyway you can contact me a 1(970) 240-9691 or go the Grand Mesa Nordic Council
website: http://www.mesastate.edu/~jerry/gmnc/.