The Jackrabbit cross-country skiing program is a great way for children to learn ski technique, build lifelong friendships and have fun.
The Jackrabbit season starts on the first Saturday in January every year. Children, parents and coaches ski each Saturday at the Sawmill Nordic Centre in Hepworth, Ontario.
We accept children ranging in age from four to thirteen years. The number of children we can accept into the program depends upon the number of volunteer Jackrabbit leaders we can recruit.
All registrations are to be done on the Zone4 website. In addition to registering in Jackrabbits, you must have complete the Bruce Ski Club membership application for your child or family.
Benefits of Cross-Country Skiing for Children
Cross-country skiing requires balance, coordination, fitness and enthusiasm.
The goal of the Jackrabbit program is to help children have a safe and fun outdoor experience while learning to cross-country ski.
The program information and skills taught by the leaders and assistants are supported by the Jackrabbit Program of Cross-Country Canada.
All children progress at different rates. As a skier moves up the levels, he or she may require more time to master the skills required for the higher levels, i.e. spending two seasons in level 3 or 4.
To learn more about the Jackrabbits program, email jackrabbits@bruceskiclub.ca.
Volunteer for Jackrabbits
The Jackrabbit program is run entirely by volunteers. Our program has thrived because of the enthusiasm of our everyone who helps out.
Most of our leaders are parents of Jackrabbit skiers. Also, we are always looking for Bruce Ski Club members to volunteer with the program.
Parents often start as assistants. While some cross-country skiing ability is an asset, a majority of our skiers are between the ages of 5 and 9. So you don’t have to be an Olympic skier to volunteer as a leader.
To help you prepare for the upcoming Jackrabbit season, we offer a coaching course each year.
Parents who are interested in improving their own cross-country skiing abilities should check out the learn-to-ski events offered by the Bruce Ski Club.