Cape Breton Nordic – Adult Lessons Resounding Success

by Cross Country Nova Scotia, Staff, March 2, 2021

Cape Breton Nordic offered classic cross-country ski lessons to active adults in February, which included two weekly sessions. John Hudec, president of Cape Breton Nordic, and Daniel Murray, instructor, reached out to adults within the surrounding running and triathlon communities. There was immediate uptake for the introductory sessions.

“I always have been curious how well cross country skiing could integrate into CBRM’s incredible outdoor fitness community,” said Murray. With my recent move to Sydney, it seemed like a great opportunity to test the waters with a ski lesson. When I put the call out for lessons one evening, we had 18 sign up by noon of the next day. It was a great lesson, with fantastic weather, and an even better team spirit. I also had more interest in what I could offer for lessons, so now I’m scratching my head to see if I can make additional lessons happen.”

Murray is the head coach for the provincial ski team. In 2020, Murray received the Bryan Scallion Award for top male aggregate time at the provincial cross-country ski championships. He grew up skiing at North Highlands Nordic.

John Hudec is president of Cape Breton Nordic. Hudec volunteers to bring outdoor enthusiasts together to enjoy a variety of activities year-round including nordic pole walking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. “Last year we selected three populations to target as groups we would like to attract to ski and snowshoe here at the Cape Breton Nordic Trails,” added Hudec. New Canadians, older adults and active community members such as runners and cyclists. Covid has slowed us down a bit but this year we focused on the active community and inviting them to cross over and try cross country skiing. With Daniel Murray in our community now it provided a great opportunity to work with local running groups to provide this opportunity. It has been well received for sure. Our next partnership will be with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality Recreation Department to provide specific initiatives for older adults.”

John Hudec is president of Cape Breton Nordic. He is also head coach of the Cape Breton University track and field team.

Introductory Lessons

Cross-country skiing increases your heart health and endurance. The sport is low impact, while engaging all muscles – an excellent cross-training sport that improves balance.

Lesson participants enjoying the session at Cape Breton Nordic, based at Seaview Golf and Country Club in North Sydney.

Cross-country skiing provides another training option to stay fit and spend more time outdoors during the winter months.

Cape Breton Nordic – Information

Enjoy a day at Cape Breton Nordic. Rental equipment is available.

Interested in purchasing a membership? (Click here)

There is 7 KM of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You are invited to bring your lunch or warm-up at the club house, during set hours.