by Tom Hakala
Last week as I drove along the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park it started to snow. Nothing heavy, just beautiful, fluffy flakes lightly floating down among the trees and peaks. I was awestruck by the mountains and inspired by the snow. Now I can’t wait to get out on the trails and ski.
With that in mind, I decided to act on a few things that I have talked about in the past, after hearing from BSC members who want to be better skiers or just learn more about our trails.
First of all I plan to set up a database to match members who wish to improve their skiing technique with experienced skiers who are willing to help them ski more efficiently. So far I have a couple of very experienced skiers who have come forward to give a lesson or two.
- Heidi Tones is the mother of National Ski Team member, Julian Smith, and she is willing to help you improve your skiing if you donate to Julian’s travel fund. You can reach Heidi at: 519-534-3222 or email: smith.tones@gmail.com.
- Marlyn Suke is the Coaching Coordinator for Georgian Bay Nordic Ski Team and Marlyn will give you a lesson if you make a contribution to GBN. You can set up a lesson with Marlyn at 519-374-4227 or email her at: mpsuke@gmail.com.
If any of you wish to add your name to the database, either as a instructor or a student, email me at: hakalathomas@gmail.com. It is up to each instructor what and how they will charge for their services.
My other idea is to offer group tours of our trails. Last season, we tried to take part in World Snow Day… two times… and both times we were shut out by ridiculous high winds and cold. This coming year, World Snow Day will be on January 19th, 2020, and I think we should celebrate in a more low key way.
So throughout the winter we will post on our Facebook page and website that a tour is being offered and all you have to do is show up. If you would like to be a tour guide, please email me at: hakalathomas@gmail.com.