Lit up at Lester (recap)

Total distance: Varies - 8.24 miles+

Participants: Keven, Greg, and Bill S.

Highlights: Fast conditions generally and the 2nd half (all downhill!)

Detailed stats and interactive map

Recap: We decided to start a bit earlier this week...we'll see if this is a time that sticks, so stay posted. It was fun to reconnect with Bill after several weeks. It had been a year since I'd seen Bill on skis and I continue to be amazed at how effortless skate skiing can look for someone with experience! I know he works hard when skiing, but his form inspires those of us that wonder if we'll ever get there. Greg is definitely on his way to that same rhythm, if not already there.

If you haven't been to Lester, my highlight above may be useful to you. The first 1/2 or more is nearly all up hill. During this time, your heart is pounding, your lungs are gasping, and, for some (me included), you wonder what you are doing wrong. That brings us to that special turn...the one where you start the descent that was especially fast this week due to the trail conditions. In an instant, the skier goes from a panting pansy to a roller coaster flying the rails. Take a look at the stats and map link above, because it is easy to see when flipping between the elevation and HR sections. By the time you reach the "bottom", you have nearly forgotten the arduous journey up and up and up and you decide to take another loop to quickly refresh your memory;)

Hope to see you next soon!

Lit up at Lester

Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 (5:15PM) or 6:00PM
Meet Location: Lester Park Lower Lot
Activity: Skate Skiing
Weather: Single Digits - updated forecast
Trail Conditions: Currently well groomed
Required Gear: Skis & Trail Pass (Gander Mtn and select gas stations)
Optional Gear: Headlamps

The weather outside isn't as nice as last week, but should still be good for skiing. We've listed two times. Greg is going for a little extra credit with the Birke on the horizon, so we are starting early. We realize the earlier start time may be difficult for some, so we'll swing down to the lower lot again at 6PM to collect anyone that can't make the first start time.

Anyone is welcome to attend. Multiple distances are anticipated, so come for one loop or come for four. I may also bring classic skis to do one loop. See you there!

January 20

Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2009 (4:45PM)
Meet Location: Piedmont Ski Trailhead
Activity: Classic Skiing
Weather: 20's - updated forecast

Trail Conditions: Currently well groomed

Required Gear: Classic Skis & Headlamps

The weather outside is outstanding and it is a shame to not be outside. Due to some scheduling issues and limited daylight for classic skiing, we are deviating from our normal start time.

Our intent for next week is to skate ski at either Lester Or Snowflake at our normal start time of 6PM. If conditions are good, we will be skate skiing at Lester Park (starting at the lower parking lot to avoid parking congestion). If Lester's conditions are poor, we will meet at Snowflake's chalet. We will update the blog a bit more promptly next week!

*** Jan 13 Canceled ***

Our gathering tonight (Tuesday, January 13) is canceled due to the extremely cold temperatures. We look forward to better weather and more good clean fun next week!

As an aside, the Pepsi Challenge will be taking place this Saturday. If you have nothing else to do, this would be a fun event to watch and cheer on the participants. There are multiple distances for this cross country ski race and many people take this race on in preparation for the Birke.

Snowflake Again? - (recap)

Total distance: 22.5 K

Participants: Greg and Scout

Highlights: Somewhat mild temps, great snow conditions, and well-groomed trail. It's nice to see so many people enjoying evening skiing at Snowflake.

Recap: Perfect night for the first Tuesday night ski of 2009. Hope to see you next week!

Snowflake Again?

Date: Tuesday, January 6, 2009 (6:00PM)
Meet Location: Snowflake Ski Center
Activity: Skate Skiing
Weather: mid teens - updated forecast

Trail Conditions: Currently well groomed with excellent cover

Required Gear: Skate Skis, poles, boots and $3 for Snowflake

Anticipated Distance/Time: 60 - 120 minutes

Activity Details: Perfect snow conditions, a lighted trail system, and consistently great grooming bring us back to Snowflake for the third week in a row. Keven is out of town this week, so for anyone who wants to join me, I'll be in front of the chalet at 6:00 p.m.