Kanata Nordic Racing FAQ

What is the racing program all about? 

Skills! Our goal is to enable young athletes to develop their cross-country skiing skills in a  positive team environment. The focus is on ski racing, where athletes are given tools to grow as athletes and individuals. 

Fun! To grow in the sport an athlete needs to have fun and enjoy training, appreciate being  outside and, above all, love skiing. The program includes a wide variety of activities throughout  the year to keep the interest level high. 

Team! Each athlete is encouraged, with coach support, to set their own individual goals and the  coaches aspire to deliver a program to guide the athletes to achieve their personal best. By  participating in the Racing Program each athlete supports the goals of the team and assists their  peers to do the same. 

I’m not sure I have the experience to take part… 

If you have some experience on classic skis and skate skis, and you can comfortably run a couple  of kilometers, you’re doing well! General fitness is important – but the most important thing is  to love being outdoors in all weather and to go on adventures! 

What is the program schedule and locations? 

Tuesday and Thursdays we meet and train from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm in Kanata/West End locations. Once  snow comes, we train at our trails at Wesley Clover Parks on Corkstown Road. Saturday mornings, we often try to go to Gatineau Park, meeting usually at 9:00 for two hours. We start in September and go until  March Break or longer!

Do I have to race?  

No, nothing is “mandatory”! But you’ll want to because skiing fast is fun! Coaches will encourage  you to take part in 2-3 local races your first season, including our own Pretzel Race Day! Our coach focuses SOLELY on the process and NEVER on the results for our U12 and U14 athletes. 

I have a schedule conflict with another sport… 

Good! Skiing is a very “late entry” sport and our coaches actively encourage all our athletes to  do other activities. We have kids who play hockey, soccer, who swim, etc…
For a U12 athlete it’s a good goal to plan to attend 2/3 of practices over the season. No need to get too  serious until later in high school! 

What equipment do I need? 

We train on both styles of skiing, so once snow arrives, you need skate and classic skis/poles  and either a pair of combi boots or separate skate and classic boots.
You also need a  headlamp, water belt, and clothes that can get wet/dirty because we train in all conditions (well,  almost all!).
You do NOT need roller skis; you don’t do that till you’re a bit older, and we rent the  roller skis for your first season.
We have great discounts at local stores and there’s a lot of used  equipment swaps as well. 

When is registration? 

Registration in OPEN NOW for 2024-25 season for returning racing program athletes!  If you are new to the Kanata Nordic racing program, or have any questions before registering, please contact us at kanatanordicracing@gmail.com

I’m only going into grade 4 – but I think I’m ready… 

Great, reach out! If we’ve not met before we’ll try to get you out to meet our coach/group so  you can see if it’s a fit for you.  

For more information: https://www.kanatanordic.ca/ski-programs/kanata-racers/