by Cross Country Nova Scotia, Staff, February 9, 2024
Come on out to learn classic cross-country skiing, improve your technique, and/or participate in a social ski, this Sat, Feb 10 and Sun, Feb 11, at Baddeck Nordic Club! Children and adults are invited to join complimentary lessons for classic cross-country skiing, which include “try-it” groups, “beginner” groups, and a “social ski”, held in a casual and social environment. Participants are asked to meet at the parking lot, at 1085 Westside Baddeck Road, Baddeck. Lessons will be held in the field beside the parking lot, while the social ski will take place on an introductory-level trail.
Lesson groups and times are outlined in the table below, you are welcome to sign-up for as many lessons and group types that suit your interest! All are welcome to attend, there is no program fee. The trail access fee is required, $10 individual or $20 for family. Baddeck Nordic Club annual membership holders have trail access.
Equipment can be provided free of charge and will be available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional equipment is available at the Baddeck Regional Library.
Join Cross Country Nova Scotia ski ambassador, Michelle Richards, who will be leading the lessons. Richards is a life-long skier, with a passion for sharing the sport. This event is provided in partnership with Baddeck Nordic Club.
A wonderful opportunity to meet fellow cross-country skiers and enjoy time on snow. Details are listed below, please contact Michelle, if you have questions, nsxcskicbi@gmail.com, or 902-227-1230.
Registration is required!
| CLASSIC CROSS-COUNTRY SKI SESSIONS | DETAILS | NOTES | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DATES | Sat Feb 10 + Sun Feb 11 | Participants can attend as many lessons as they choose over the two days. | |
| TIMES | 12-1 | Try-It Session | All ages + abilities |
| 1:15-2:30 | Beginner Lesson | All ages + abilities | |
| 3-4 | Social Ski | All ages + abilities | |
| TECHNIQUE | Classic | ||
| AGE | Adults + Children | ||
| LOCATION | Baddeck Nordic Club | ||
| 1085 Westside Baddeck Road (Google Map) | |||
| Try-it + Beginner Lessons | Field beside parking lot | ||
| Social Skis | Introductory-level trail | ||
| TRAIL DETAILS | Beginner friendly terrain, flat area | ||
| EQUIPMENT | Equipment available onsite, no fee | First-come, first-served basis | |
| Additional equipment available at Baddeck Regional Library | |||
| FEE – PROGRAM | No fee | ||
| FEE – TRAIL ACCESS (required) | Baddeck Nordic Club day pass or annual membership required | ||
| Day Pass | Please purchase on day of event, for insurance purposes (not in advance) | ||
| Annual Membership | |||
| REGISTER (required) | Click here! | ||
| CONTACT | nsxcskicbi@gmail.com | Michelle Richards | |
| 902-227-1230 | Michelle Richards |
Consider Joining a Cross-Country Ski Club!
If you enjoy your time on snow, please check out your local cross-country ski club, Baddeck Nordic Club , which offers 10 km of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The trail system features beautiful, sheltered trails, with stunning views. The club formed in December 2022, and promotes cross-country skiing in the Baddeck area to both local and visiting, skiers and snowshoers of all ages; through skill building, social events, trail development, and trail maintenance. This non-profit club will work to support skiers and snowshoers of all ages and abilities to enjoy a healthy, outdoor, winter activity.
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Michelle Richards – Background
Michelle Richards has been cross-country skiing for a lifetime. She grew up in the snow belt of Ontario and received her first skis at the age of four. Cross-country skiing was a key activitiy for Richards, both at home and in school. Her family encouraged her to ski in the backyard and on wooded trails. Additionally, she participated in a ski program held during physical education class at her elementary school.
Richards transitioned to skate skiing, as a teenager; building on her foundational classic skiing skills. In the early 1990s, skate skiing was still very new but had already made a huge impact. Michelle joined the secondary school nordic team to train and compete. Richards also worked at Hardwood Ski and Bike, a world class venue. She instructed the jack rabbit program, assisted in the ski shop, and performed administrative duties.
In the early 2000s, Michelle made a splash into the world of surfing. People might recognize her from the Summer Surf Program at Point Michaud Beach. Richards has taught many generations, and thousands of people to surf, for over 20 years. She is also an active board member on both the Surfing Association of Nova Scotia and Hike Nova Scotia.
Richards has honed her teaching skills as an experienced surf instructor and is keen to share her technical knowledge of cross-country skiing. Michelle is excited to get back to her roots of cross-country skiing and fulfill her role as the Cape Breton ski ambassador.
Photos
Michelle skiing as a child through to adult. Photographed at North Highlands Nordic (top right photo). Michelle participated in a community coaching course at North Highlands Nordic, photographed with her group in the final photo.
Baddeck Nordic Photos
View additional photos on the Baddeck Nordic Club website.
Cross Country Nova Scotia 