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As the air starts to grow chillier, many are looking forward to the arrival of snow. The Boulder Nordic Junior Racing Team, which is dedicated to inspiring and assisting Boulder area youth to become lifelong Nordic skiers, is encouraging new members to join for the 2023/2024 season. 

The Boulder Nordic Junior Racing Team offers Nordic, also known as “cross-country,” ski training in both classic and skate techniques. In the development program, skiers ages 8 to 15 focus on learning techniques, how to wax skis, and having fun on snow three days a week. Skiers sixteen and older can elect to practice up to 5 days a week. Practices are held at Eldora Nordic Center, at the base of Eldora Ski Area in Nederland. In the fall, running and roller-skiing practice is offered at various locations in Boulder. The Team offers seasonal ski equipment rentals, so there is no need to have your own gear.

Nordic skiing builds endurance and aerobic fitness, and is a great low-impact cross-training activity for other youth sports like cycling, running, and soccer. There is no obligation to race, but for those who wish to compete, the Team participates in races throughout Colorado and the Mountain West. Team members can also participate in a fun and invigorating training camp in Crested Butte over Thanksgiving week. 

Head coaches Ursula Volz and Jason Bartley are looking forward to a strong team-building season this year. “Our biggest goal for this season is to continue to develop a cohesive team and bring together a community of Nordic skiers in Boulder. That means lots of team events, fun practices, and opportunities to race starting in mid-December. We hope to keep getting kids in the area excited about the sport that has shaped us into the people we are today, no matter their background in skiing. We believe this is the most fun, gritty, and rewarding sport out there and we hope to share our experience with the youth in our community."

Most importantly, it is a great opportunity to make friendships and lasting memories while promoting sportsmanship and fitness. Skier Tad Enos (age 11) says “The best thing is the coaches are super nice, and it’s really fun!  We all play games together at the end of practice—my favorites are ski ball, sharks and minnows, and freeze tag. Everybody cheers for and supports each other, and there’s great team spirit!” 

More information on joining the team can be found at their website: bnjrt.ski.