This year’s GMAS Nordic Ski Open House at Craftsbury Outdoor Center (COC) was a huge success, thanks in part to Mother Nature delivering perfect bluebird skies and warm temperatures for all to enjoy.
A dozen athletes raging from ages 3 to 70 years old came from near and far, alone or with family and friends to try cross country skiing, or, for many, to practice and improve on newly learned skills.
Six Craftsbury Outdoor Center Nordic ski instructors led the ski lessons, supported by an equal amount of volunteers.
For some, the big draw was an opportunity to be able to practice a sport with their partner. For others, the cookies or hot cocoa were the main driver. Many were pleased to experience a progression in their skiing, for example to ski assisted by the ski slider, to moving on to using poles. The faster skiers even got to kick and glide on the trails, coached by expert instructors of the COC.
As always, GMAS thrives on collaborating with other organizations at our sponsored events. As in many years past, Patrick Standen of the Northeast Disabled Adaptive Association (NDAA) came to coach and share his extensive experience in the sit-ski. His student? None other than Edie Perkins, the Executive Director at the Kelly Brush Foundation.
We wish to thank Craftsbury Outdoor Center and their staff for always going the extra mile to make this a most successful event. We are also grateful for the volunteers, and participants.
GMAS offers athlete scholarships for Vermont residents to receive free cross country ski lessons, a day pass, or a ski pass at COC. All include free equipment rental. Apply for a scholarship today, and come experience the thrills of cross country skiing. More information and the application can be found here.
A visually impaired skier is led by her coach.
A young skier enjoyed the junior ski slider.
GMAS volunteers enjoyed their time at COC.
Patrick Standen (NDAA) and Edie Perkins (KBF) enjoy their time in the sit ski.