Under the supervision of the Head Coach, the purpose of this position is to use athletics as a tool to educate college students.  By using inter-collegiate competition and all activities related to such competition, this position serves as a teacher and mentor to help build student character, prepare students for a constructive and effective life, and teach valuable life lessons including work ethic; discipline; resilience; persistence; teamwork and selflessness; goal-setting and goal achievement; overcoming adversity; and leadership. This position typically influences student-athletes for their entire four years at Harvard and plays a key role in shaping their personal development.

This position assists in planning, directing and coaching the Men’s/Women’s inter-collegiate Nordic Skiing program. Typically works with all student-athletes in the program.

This position plays a key leadership role for the Nordic skiing program. Will fill in when the Head Coach is absent. May play a role as liaison with Athletics administrative departments. Requires experience coaching at the collegiate level or comparable experience, which may include coaching/teaching at the club or professional level or competing in a professional or other high-performance environment.

This is a one-year term position renewable at the discretion of the Head Coach and the Athletics Director. Full-time, partial year (11 months).

Position Description

Athlete Team Management

• Assists Head Coach in developing, coordinating, and planning practices and competition to develop student-athlete skills and helps team perform at competitive levels.
• Develops, coordinates and plans assigned portions of practices and competition management consistent with Head Coach’s strategic vision.
• Analyzes video to develop strategies for athlete development.
• Executes a student-athlete talent recruitment plan and retention strategy consistent with values of excellence and inclusion.
• Effectively leads and communicates with students by generating enthusiasm for the team through credible coaching.
• Supports culture of education through athletics. Assists in academic integration with team.

1. Operational Complexity

• Assists in the development and execution of team strategy, logistics and operational direction.
• Operates within budget.
• Maintains compliance with University, Ivy League, NCAA and other rules and regulations.
• Coordinates with less-experienced coaches in implementing objectives.
• Participates in professional development activities; follows trends and embraces innovation opportunities.
• Assists head coach in problem resolution.
• Requires the ability to communicate effectively with the Head Coach and athletics administrators.

Communication & Influence

• Assists Head Coach in maintaining and building viewership, and maintaining and creating positive media interest, consistent with the sport.
• Supports the Head Coach in influencing public interest where applicable.

In addition, the Assistant Coach will be responsible for:

• Coordinating with Head Coach to maintain team equipment, organize equipment orders, and assist in ski preparation for training and competition.
• Assisting in the planning and organization of home competition events.
• Assisting with travel planning.
• Assisting with recruiting of potential student-athletes.
• Working with Head Coach to develop training schedules and annual training plans for the team.
• Assisting Head Coach in team training sessions, and occasionally leading training sessions when necessary.
• Operating team vehicles safely, including in winter weather conditions.

The Assistant Coach may lead some travel independently from Head Coach when academic or competition schedules require and will need to be capable of testing wax and preparing skis for high-level competition.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Requires at least 2 years of Nordic Ski coaching, or experience Nordic skiing at the collegiate, professional, or Olympic (or equivalent) level.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Requires substantial mastery of Nordic skiing knowledge and relevant issues.
• Understands the philosophy, principles and policies of Harvard and Ivy League athletics (including the University Conflict of Interest and Commitment policy).
• Requires moderate management and leadership knowledge.

Certificates and Licenses

• Valid driver’s license needed.
• CPR and First Aid required.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift equipment associated with the sport.

Working Conditions

• Evening and weekend work required.
• Frequent travel is required.
• Job requires work in extreme environmental conditions, including extreme heat and cold, rain, and high levels of noise.

Work Format: On-Site
The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

To apply: bit.ly/66567BR

Last May, FasterSkier wrote about the retirement of University of New Hampshire’s (UNH) legendary ski coach Cory Schwartz, who had been with the University for 42 years. This summer, UNH named Shane MacDowell— the team’s former assistant coach— as Schwartz’s replacement. Following in the footsteps of a person whose career stretches back to the Reagan administration is a daunting task. Doing so at a university which has a dedicated and passionate alumni base is even more of a challenge. Shane MacDowell was generous enough to take time to speak with FasterSkier about taking on the challenge of following the career of a legend, and the difficulties involved in coaching a high profile ski program.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

FasterSkier: First off, congratulations are still in order. You’re still kind of in the early honeymoon phases?

Shane MacDowell: Thanks. Yeah, summer was kind of the perfect time for this to happen. So, it’s kind of easing into it before the chaos begins.

FasterSkier: Shane, where do you call home?

Shane MacDowell: The past three years my family and I’ve been back and forth between Lake Placid, NY and New Hampshire. But now we’re going to be living in Somersworth, New Hampshire.

FasterSkier: Let’s start with one of the harder questions right off the bat. You’re obviously following in the footsteps of Cory Schwartz, who was at UNH for over four decades, and that has to be a challenge— following in the footsteps of a person who has become pretty much an institution. So how are you approaching that aspect of it, if you’re even considering that aspect of it?

Shane MacDowell: Yes, I’m considering that aspect of it. I’m definitely trying to be my own person, and my own coach, with that thought, I feel as though I’ve had an incredible experience running up to this point. Right out of college I worked for Boulder Nordic Sport with Roger Knight and that set me up on the waxing side of things. From there I worked at Green Mountain Valley School and then at Northern Michigan University (NMU) which gave me some really unique perspectives on coaching and leading a program, especially with Northern Michigan under Sten Fjeldheim. I got to really see what a top tier program is like, and then obviously working with Cory (Schwartz). Like you said, he’s an institution, and I had the pleasure and ability to ski for him when I was in college and then to come back and to be able to work with him and see how things work on the other side from being an athlete. I think that helped. It really set me up to be in this position because at UNH it’s not just about being a coach. We do a significant amount of fundraising, and our alumni outreach and alumni engagement are a huge part, which is great. I think what makes the entire ski program unique is because all the alumni are so engaged with the current team and how the program is doing. They want to give back and they want to still be a part of the program. Following in Cory’s footsteps is my goal, and not disrupting the foundation that he has laid, but also adding my own layer to it or my own character to it by doing things just a little bit differently. I think if somebody would come into this program after everything Cory has done to make it what it is — saving it on several occasions—and then to change everything about it, would be making a massive mistake.

FasterSkier: Whenever there’s a coaching change in any collegiate sport program after a long term coach has left, there are inevitable comparisons which get made and you’re going to face that as well. Is that something you’re prepared for?

Shane MacDowell: I think I’m prepared for it, and I think it makes it a little bit easier in that transition because it’s not like I’m coming from the outside as a new hire. This will be my 4th year coaching with UNH. I wouldn’t say it’s as stark as like, a Division One football program coach coming in from a whole different program and those comparisons being made … I’ve been part of the program.

FasterSkier: So you think having been an assistant coach at UNH for the last three years, is going to make the transition easier for you?

Shane MacDowell:  I think that makes it a little bit easier. There’s obviously a lot more things that I need to take on, with being a program director as well, that it’s going to take me a little while to get up to speed on. Cory did an amazing job of that alumni outreach that I spoke of before. And, getting up to speed on that and keeping that engagement going is definitely going to be one of the biggest … I hesitate to say hurdles to overcome, but it’s a big step to add on to, trying to run the Nordic program and oversee Alpine as well. So yes, on some of it, it is going to make it easier to transition, but there’s definitely going to be challenges along the way as well.

FasterSkier: Let me follow up with that. Your official title is director of Skiing and Head Nordic coach, which is the same title that Cory had. That includes directing and supervising downhill as well. Do you feel that position holds or creates any tension between the downhill and cross- country programs, especially when you have the head coach whose background predominantly is cross country?

Shane MacDowell: I don’t think it creates tension. There are a couple of other programs around the country that do it the same way and in certain cases, the Alpine coach is the director of the Nordic program. When Cory was in the position, or when I’m in the position, it’s not like we’re telling the Alpine program what they can or can’t do or how they should be training or anything like that. We’re one team that is headed by the director of the program. We’re not looked at as Alpine and Nordic. So to have one person, whether it be the Alpine head coach, or the Nordic head coach be the lead on that, I think it’s beneficial. Because I think when you separate the two, we would start competing for fundraising dollars within our alumni base and this way, when it’s looked at as one program, we’re doing it all as one unit.

FasterSkier:  In your position, will you actually be involved in coaching the Alpine athletes at all or working with them in any capacity?

Shane MacDowell: Coaching No. I won’t be on the hill coaching them, going through gates, that’s what Brian Blank and Parker Costa are doing. Interacting, yes. I said we’re one team, so we certainly interact as a team. Our Alpine and Nordic are very close with one another. Sometimes we’ll have training sessions together for dry-land, usually like our more explosive workouts, doing plyometrics, or sometimes we’ll get a speedball game going. I’m not sure if you know what speedball is?

FasterSkier: I don’t.

Shane MacDowell: It’s kind of a combination of two hand touch football and soccer. But you know we have those engagements where we get the two teams together and it keeps the team close and reminds them that we are in this together. It’s not just one team or the other. So, in that regard, I hesitate to call it coaching, but definitely coordinating to get together and keep that initiative going that we are one team working towards the same goal.

FasterSkier: In your remarks at your introductory press conference, you mentioned the time you spent at NMU (Northern Michigan University) under Sten Fjeldheim— who I think it’s fair to say is another legendary coach. You’re in a unique position where you’ve worked under both of these legends. Can you expound a little bit on what coaching lessons you learned from Sten and maybe if you can make a comparison of Sten’s methods versus Cory’s?

Shane MacDowell: I strongly believe that when I went and worked with Sten at Northern Michigan, I very much went to school with him on training methods, and technique. Sten is a technician when it comes to all of that, and I had the opportunity to work with him, who I think was probably one of the most successful coaches that the U.S. has ever had— so many national champions and some pretty incredible teams. Let me go on with Cory before I kind of compare the two. With Cory I had the background of the training and being able to write plans and have confidence in it and evaluate technique when I came to UNH. But with Cory I think I learned— and this isn’t to say I wasn’t learning it under Sten either—I learned how to find my coaching style a little bit more, work on the coach-athlete interaction, a little bit more patient scenarios and how to approach certain situations. And then also the other aspect of the program too is with fundraising, and I keep coming back to that which for our program is just huge. They have two pretty distinctly different styles, but I think it’s by necessity of the program. With UNH, fundraising and alumni engagement is huge for us because it has to be. Fundraising and alumni engagement was present at Northern Michigan, but it wasn’t as much of a must, so you could certainly focus a lot more time on the training aspect of things.

FasterSkier: I think it might be fair to say that NMU might have a little higher name recognition when it comes to attracting international athletes? Is that something that played into how the coaches handled athletes or affected the coaching at all?

Shane MacDowell: It’s actually kind of funny because it surprised me when I was working for Sten that his first international athlete wasn’t until when I was actually skiing in school in 2005, 2006. Up until then, he had only had Americans. And even when I was working with him, we had a couple of foreign athletes, but I would say the majority of the team was all Americans. My first year there, we had the best men’s team in the country at the NCAAs and they’re all from the Midwest which is pretty unique. You can’t take anything away from Sten and Northern on how successful they were. But to compare the Northern program to the UNH program or any program that has an Alpine team as well is like comparing apples and oranges. Because when you have an Alpine team as well, all of a sudden, your scholarships get cut in half for both programs. You’re allowed to have X number of scholarships, but then that gets split between Alpine and Nordic. With Northern they’re allowed the same number of scholarships, but it’s only for Nordic, so the power of having that many more scholarships just on the Nordic side, might play into being able to entice that foreign talent a little bit more.

FasterSkier:  NMU has an Alpine program but it’s a separate entity, right?

Shane MacDowell: Yeah, it’s a club team, so they don’t even compete in the same league.

FasterSkier: Working with Sten, can you put your finger on one or two major takeaway coaching lessons that you learned from him?

Shane MacDowell: The biggest takeaway from him was writing a training plan; writing one that can help the athletes be successful and improve throughout their time on the team. He was just incredible at knowing what an athlete needed and prescribing the right training and holding them to it and making them accountable. So, I would say, a combination of knowing training, but then also having that ability to get the respect from the athletes because they know that you know what you’re talking about and holding them accountable to get that work in to reach their best potential. And then the second is probably his ability to analyze technique and really hone in on where an athlete’s deficiencies are and being able to relay that in a way that the athlete understands is probably another big take away.

FasterSkier: Moving back to something else that you were talking about earlier regarding the importance of alumni outreach. UNH’s Nordic fan base is different than it is at a lot of other schools—it’s more involved. The importance of fundraising is high on the list of things that you have to do. As the head coach having to be involved with the fundraising, the training of athletes, and the administration of the program … it’s a lot for one person. What’s your strategy for tackling all that, because it seems like it’s just so much?

Shane MacDowell: It’s not really just all on one person. For the Nordic program we just hired a new assistant coach to replace myself with Brandon Herhusky, who was the assistant at UVM the past few years. So, it’s not all just falling on me. As mentioned before, we’re working as one team so we’re not engaging just the Nordic program, we’re engaging all of our alumni. Having our Alpine staff there to assist with that and help our program to have even greater outreach is great because then all of that responsibility isn’t necessarily just falling on one person’s shoulders.

FasterSkier: When you were an assistant at UNH, were you able to kind of sit back and watch how Cory processed and worked with the alumni and alumni relationships and saw how he managed it?

Shane MacDowell: Yes, and I think that’s been one of the biggest advantages of stepping into this role. I’ve had that experience of being able to see how Cory engaged with the alumni not only through email and social media, but to try to have at least one alumni event a year. During the Carnival season this past year we had it at the Dartmouth Carnival. So, we had as many alumni that wanted to come and had sort of a little banquet style dinner with everybody, and they actually got to come and watch the races as well. So just having that sort of engagement with them, keeping alumni involved as much as possible and up to date with who’s on the team, what the team’s doing— their successes both on the ski trails and in the classroom goes a long way. Our alumni obviously look at the team and their time on the team as being very special and still want to be involved with that and give back in in any way that they can.

FasterSkier: You don’t see it as quite the same daunting task as an outsider does looking in terms of managing all these different aspects of the program. It seems that there is an infrastructure in place, with people, to help manage all that?

Shane MacDowell: There’s definitely the infrastructure in place and like I mentioned earlier, Cory did an amazing job of laying that foundation. I would be sorely mistaken, if I were to say I’m not going to screw this up a little bit at one point or another. There’s going to be growing pains for me because it is new, but there are those other aspects to the program that help you tackle all the tasks that we do have.

Please revisit FasterSkier for part II of our interview with Shane MacDowell.

It’s been 14 years since I became an Olympian, competing as a cross country skier in the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver.

Since then, it hasn’t been easy to get to the Olympics as a spectator. The Winter Games have been in Sochi, Pyeongchang and Beijing, while the summer games have been in Rio and Tokyo, with an interruption by the Covid pandemic. The Paris Games were finally an opportunity for me to attend my first Olympics as a spectator. My wife Catherine speaks fluent french and has spent lots of time in Paris, so she planned out an incredible long weekend for us, striking the perfect balance between Olympic events, Parts attractions and local flavors.

We caught the opening Ceremonies and many of the early competitions on TV, so we had a pretty good orientation and impression of the experience before arriving last Thursday night, August 1 for three days in Paris.

Public transportation was plastered with Olympic branding and volunteers to direct visitors. Our accommodation in Paris’ 9th arrondissement was located right on the cycling road race route with views up to the Sacré Coeur Basilica atop Montmartre – one of the highest points in Paris. We arrived in time for a late dinner – almost all restaurants in France have strict seating times and require reservations – and an evening storm poured rain just outside the restaurant’s open facade, bringing a welcome breeze on a hot night. Parisian steak frites, paired with a bottle of Bordeaux and a fresh side salad offered a quintessential start to the trip.

Most events start later in the day, so our aim on Friday was to discover Paris. What better place to kick things off than the Eiffel Tour? Adorned with the Olympic rings, I wanted to visit the iconic landmark on the Seine and site of the Opening Ceremonies, Beach Volleyball and finish of the triathlon and road races. I wrote my Master’s Thesis about “visitor flows” and the movements of tourists through cities. Not surprisingly, one of the first places tourists go when they arrive in a new city is the highest point. In Innsbruck, the destination I studied for my thesis, that’s the Nordkette mountain range overlooking the city below. In Paris, the highest point is the Eiffel Tower.

I was surprised that there was practically no line for the elevator to the top, so we hitched a ride and were rewarded with an Olympic panorama of Paris. The festive atmosphere of the beach volleyball match carried to the top of the Eiffel Tower. BMX racers practiced at the race track on the other side of the Seine. 3 x 3 basketball courts were surrounded by spectators. The iconic Grand Palais museum, with its vintage art deco style, hosted the fencing competitions. The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame – all places I knew only from photos and textbooks – came to life amidst all the Olympic venues. I didn’t get to visit any of the famous sites during my first trip to Paris, but I’m already looking forward to my next trip when I can go inside. This trip, after all, was to celebrate the Olympic Games!

And that’s exactly how it felt: a celebration. I was a bit self-conscious before my first day in Paris, so I decided to leave my USA Olympic rings shirt at home, instead opting for an unbranded neutral green t-shirt. Once I was out in the city, I realized I was probably the only person without a national flag or Olympic rings of some sort. People’s clothes were an opportunity to open conversation, congratulating sport’s fans on the achievements of athletes from their country.

Some countries with large Olympic teams even have “houses” in Paris. The houses are more like embassies. The “Team USA House” was in the Palais Brongniart, an impressive building originally built in 1826 as home to one of the world’s first stock exchanges. The Team USA House is a gathering point for athletes, their families, sponsors and even US Olympians from previous Games. At the Vancouver Olympics, the cross country skiers stayed in Whistler, so I never visited the Team USA House. One of my highlights in Paris was visiting the Team USA House and the opportunity to connect with other Olympians and share the experience with my wife Catherine and best man, Dan. Dan and I ski raced both in high school and college together. Dan is in Paris for the Olympics in his role working for Airbnb.

A couple of the highlights in the Team USA House were catching up with 5x Bobsled Olympic medalist and 2022 USA flag bearer Elana Meyers Taylor, her husband and Olympian Nic Taylor and Olympian Lauren Gibbs. Elana won her first medal at the 2010 Games (I was at the awards ceremony!) and is still competing, currently training for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Games. Wow!! I’m looking forward to cheering on Elana, Nic and Lauren when they compete at the Bobsled World Cup in Innsbruck this winter. Another highlight was meeting LaShawn Merritt, 3 x Gold Medalist in the 400m Sprint and 4x400m Relay. We connected on the focus and intention it takes to achieve big goals and the power of sleep. LaShawn currently runs Nike Speed Clinics for high school athletes and runs the LaShawn Merritt Foundation, dedicated to enhancing the well-being of youth in underserved communities.

We haven’t even made it to the competitions yet! Getting tickets was definitely not the easiest or most affordable part of the games, but spending Friday night under the lights of the Stade de France, France’s national stadium, was definitely worth the effort. All 80,000 seats were sold out and the crowd was waay into it. Fortunately, there was still enough flexibility to get up and move around, so we could catch different events from different vantage points. We met the families of a few different athletes competing and had fun cheering on their athletes. The US team dominated the 4 x 400m mixed relay qualification. The women’s 5000m qualification heats featured a master class in strategy, with team tactics, rabbits and sprint finishes all coming into play. Many of the decathlon events offered an opportunity to see a variety of field sports. The highlight of the evening was the men’s 10,000m final. The crowd had a wave going around the stadium at the same pace as the runners. Grant Fisher from the US brought home an historic bronze medal on the 10k which prompted lots of texts with past running teammates of mine watching the races from home in the US.

If I had one wish for my time in Paris at the Olympics, it’s that more friends and family could join me to experience the Games. One person would be my sister Martha, who is an NCAA DI Champion rower. We went to the Rowing finals on Saturday morning thinking of her. The women’s and men’s Eights and Single Sculls featured medal finals. Rowing had a fun atmosphere with a lot of freedom for fans to walk along most of the 2 km course.

The rowing medal ceremonies finished with enough time for us to get back to our neighborhood for the Men’s Road Race. We didn’t plan this part of the trip beforehand, but the course went right past our accommodation in Paris – twice! The crowd was already starting to line up behind the fencing when we arrived, so we staked out our spot next to a crew of Irish fans, in Paris to cheer on Ben Healy and Ryan Mullen. Surprisingly, the two Irish cyclists were having a great race and the Irish crew was ecstatic, sharing updates with us from the course. I really enjoy capturing photos from events like the Olympics. At the track and rowing events, most of my photos were capturing the crowd and atmosphere, but because the athletes were so far away, it was almost impossible to get any close-up action shots. That changed when I lined up next to catch the lead pack of the cyclists. One of the absolute highlights of the Games for me was capturing a close-up of Remco Evenepoel, en route to his Olympic Gold Medal, less than 5 km from the finish and right before his dramatic bike exchange after getting a flat tire. Looking at the photo, I think you can even see a little smirk on Evanepoel’s  face as the reality sinks in that he’ll likely win his second gold medal of the Paris Olympics. A big grin is definitely apparent on French rider Valentin Madouas, en route to a silver medal. What an exciting event.

Our trip wrapped up with more exploration in Paris. Restaurants and bars were packed and patrons overflowed onto the streets watching various events on the big screens. Cheers erupted in different places from different crowds and there was a genuine joie de vivre from everyone in Paris.

As I reflect on my long weekend in Paris, I am so glad that I took the time to attend the Olympics. After this experience, there’s no doubt that the Paris Olympics will go down as one of the best ever, especially with how Paris’ cultural sites were incorporated into the venues for the competitions and how well everything was organized. I am already looking forward to the Milan-Cortina Games and feel much more knowledgeable about the Olympic system as we develop Lumi’s trip to the 2026 Games.

If you’d like to attend a World Championship event, we still have a few spots available on Lumi’s trip to the 2025 Nordic World Championships in Trondheim, Norway and the Tour de Ski trip in Val di Fiemme, Italy. The World Championships in Trondheim, Johannes Klaebo’s hometown, will be an historic series of races. The Tour de Ski in Val di Fiemme will be on the same trails as the Olympics in 2026. If the Paris Olympics have you inspired to take a trip to France, we still have a few spots available on Lumi’s France Jura trip. One of Lumi’s trip leaders in France is the mother of an Olympic Gold medalist with some incredible Olympic stories herself.

Our Olympic sale with $300/person savings for the 2025 World Cup and France trips ends this Sunday, August 11. Reach out soon for more information and to sign up!

The Nordic Assistant Coach assists the Head Coach in the administration of all aspects of the program, including, but not limited to, coaching, recruiting, event scheduling, supervision of program personnel, budget management, Student-Athlete mentoring, team travel, equipment, meals, technical logistics (software), marketing, and compliance with NCAA and the RMISA rules/regulations. The Assistant Head Coach will embrace and model a positive coaching philosophy and associated techniques, insisting on a culture of respect and positive communication, as well as collaboration with internal departments of the division and the university. The Associate Head Coach will also demonstrate an on-going commitment to the principles of multiculturalism and diversity through hiring practices, training and development programming, campus collaborations, or involvement and participation in university/divisional multiculturalism and diversity projects of initiatives.

Application Deadline

For consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00 p.m. (MST) August 23, 2024.

For more details and to apply please visit: https://jobs.du.edu/cw/en-us/job/497505/assistant-nordic-ski-coach

For questions, contact Rogan Brown at rogan.brown@du.edu

Finnegan Bailey—a resident of Landgrove, Vermont, and team member of SMST2 and the University of Vermont—was selected this spring to become one of the newest members of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team at the staggering age of 18. So how’d he do it?

In the last twelve months, Finnegan (Fin) Bailey has received quite the accolades in the competitive nordic skiing scene. To name a few: he was named to the SMST2 club team, he won his first Super Tour race and he demolished the field at the 2024 Junior Nationals U20 sprints. So it’s no surprise that Fin was amongst the latest batch of rising athletes selected to the Stifel U.S. Ski Team. While technically it’s this last year’s performances that led to Bailey’s selection, his journey to the top level of American skiing is a lifetime in the making, and it’s been filled with highs, lows, and lessons.

Fin’s father Jack is an alpine ski coach, so his exposure to snow sports didn’t begin on nordic skis. He started skiing at the age of two—alpine, that is—before exploring the nordic world a year or two later. And he played other sports, too.

“I played both soccer and baseball quite competitively. I’ve played baseball since fourth grade, and I love it. I also played soccer all through my time at Stratton,” Bailey said. Through last spring, Fin was a competing tri-sport athlete, and “pretty happy that [he] wasn’t solely focused on Nordic…because (he) doesn’t think that’s the best way to do it.” During their respective seasons, Bailey said he was “a lot more focused” on those sports than he was on skiing.

Still, despite his diverse athletic experience it’s no secret that time on skis is a key ingredient to success, Bailey had plenty of it. But forget specific speed or endurance training: Bailey largely spent his time on skis having fun “jibbing.” What’s jibbing? It can essentially be defined as hitting makeshift jumps and rails and doing things on nordic skis that aren’t meant to be done on nordic skis. (Technically, there was one pair of nordic skis made with jibbing in mind — the discontinued Fischer Jibskates — but they were the exception rather than the rule.) 

Asked how his “jibbing career” impacted his success on skis, Bailey lit up. “That’s huge! That’s all I remember and it’s how I started,” he said. Fin skied for a ski club in the Bill Koch League (BKL) called West River up through the end of elementary school, and following every BKL race — which he’d typically have won — Fin could be found handling the more important business of building and hitting massive jumps, throwing impressive grabs, spins, and even backflips. He credits his ability to move on skis largely to his youthful jibbing career.

As he moved into the later years of elementary school, Fin, along with his group of friends dubbed “The Peru Crew” — Fin and his friends Wyatt Teaford, who skis for Bates College, and Chip Freeman, who skis for Williams College — began to take skiing and training more seriously under the tutelage of Vermont coaching legend Sverre Caldwell.

“The way he got me into nordic skiing was probably the best way I could have been introduced to it,” Bailey said. He credits Caldwell for guiding him from one step on his pathway to the next. Caldwell broadened his horizons from a passionate jibber into a more multi-dimensional skier who could have just as much fun in rollerski agility sessions that mixed “training” with the fun of jibbing. These sessions were also the first exposure that Bailey had to training alongside the Stratton teams. With Caldwell’s guidance, Bailey began climbing SMS’s ladder of programs, from winter-term all the way up to SMST2. Caldwell’s influence, he said, was huge.

“There was no forcing or anything like that. He truly guided me into the SMS team.”

When Bailey arrived at the Stratton Mountain School, he kept a wide array of athletic interests but gradually became more serious about a future in skiing. He began to focus on training year round, and with this shift in mentality, his goals shifted beyond an aerial career and towards making it, as he remembers, “as far as I can.” 

Fin describes himself as a “hugely competitive” person, among other things, so it is no surprise that he aspired to the next level. But he was also exposed to that level early on, thanks to his upbringing in the stomping grounds of some of the best American nordic skiers of all time. During his time at West River and during the coined “Sverre agility sessions,” he found himself surrounded by the likes of Simi Hamilton and Sophie Caldwell. More recently, during his time at SMS and later on SMST2, Fin has had the opportunity to train with Jesse Diggins, Ben Ogden, and Julia Kern, among other massive names in American skiing.

If they served as Bailey’s inspiration, it was largely subconscious. 

“I think I probably took it for granted,” he said. It would really only hit him when he’d take a step back and think, “Wow! I’m training behind Jessie or Ben.” But mostly it was just normal. Bailey does acknowledge that just being around professional skiers was massively influential in his development as a skier.

“Even if you aren’t thinking about it, you’re looking at what they do, watching their technique. Even if you aren’t trying to, it’s just that when you look up to somebody like [I do], it’s natural. So, I think that without even thinking about it, just being around them made me better, my technique a lot better, and me a lot more invested in the sport.”

As he gains a greater understanding of the influence that high-level skiers have had on him, Bailey understands his own impact more, too, and wants to emphasize to younger, aspiring athletes the value of using knowledgeable, experienced, and more established (while still cool) skiers like himself as a resource.

“I think that it’s just great to reach out to anybody. Jessie and Ben and Julia—they’re so easy to talk to and they love sharing their experience,” he said. “Everybody loves talking about themselves and what they know.” Still, he stressed that young athletes should trust their instincts, too. “Find what works for you, but you can base that off of what the more professional athletes do.”

Bailey also made sure to note that even pros still have lessons to learn when asked about his skiing idol. His answer was Dartmouth junior Jack Lange, a teammate of his this summer as well as at SMS for a few years prior. Lange is an incredible distance skier, and splits from a large spread of races will tell you that he tends to get faster and faster throughout races. Bailey, on the contrary, is best known for his sprinting ability, and he made note of a dynamic between them.

“He gains sprinting knowledge off of me, and I gain distance knowledge off of him.” 

Improving his distance skiing prowess is one of Fin’s big goals for the future, especially as he overcomes a strange set-back from over-lifting. Yes, over-lifting is a thing in nordic skiing. “Two years, five-plus days in the gym a week, and I was just way too big to move my body in a 10k or a distance race,” he said. “The gym has been like my safe space… and I’ve had to totally dial it back. I’m now at two times a week in the gym, just to translate that strength that I have now into using it in nordic skiing.” 

This, believe it or not, has been “super hard” for Bailey, but as much as he loves the gym, he also understands that “you eventually get to a point where you are building too much muscle, and you don’t necessarily need that for nordic skiing.”

 Staying consistent with an interview he gave at Junior Nationals a few years back, Fin also mentioned UNH incoming freshman David Shycon as one of his idols, noting that David is “such a happy kid” and “always himself.” “I love that about him,” Bailey said.

It’s clear that Fin has done a lot right. What’s the one thing he feels he’s done exceptionally well in developing as a skier? As it turns out, it has nothing to do with training or nutrition.

“I think I’ve had fun. I think that’s the biggest thing,” he said.

As Bailey heads off to the University of Vermont in the fall, he hopes that this next year skiing on the EISA circuit will mark another step in his competitive skiing progression. But he understands that there is more to life than just skiing. “Making the [US] Ski Team this year has been a pretty good step,” he said. “If I keep going, that’s great. If not, that’s also great.” He’s looking forward to everything else college has to offer; Bailey is going into the academic scene undecided but would love to get into some sort of study in sports physiology. And he has really enjoyed playing around with photography and media.

But come wintertime weekends it’ll be worth watching out for Bailey in the black, green, and yellow of UVM this Winter. Most of his competition might just be watching from behind.

Thanks to England’s diverse landscapes, it boasts an impressive variety of cross-country skiing destinations, perfect for beginners and seasoned skiers. So, whether you seek the thrill of challenging routes or the serenity of gliding through snow-covered woodlands, there is a destination for you. 

Here are the best destinations for cross-country skiing in England.

Bakewell 

Bakewell is nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire, on the banks of the River Wye, about 13 miles southwest of Sheffield. If you’re planning a cross-country skiing adventure in the Peak District, Bakewell makes for an ideal base. For a spontaneous trip, you can find some fantastic last minute unique stays in Bakewell.

The Peak District is renowned for its stunning landscapes, and during winter, its rolling hills and expansive moorlands transform into a cross-country skiing paradise. Trails like the Monsal Trail and the Tissington Trail offer well-maintained routes through beautiful countryside, perfect for beginners and experienced skiers.

After a day on the trails, you can explore Bakewell’s quaint town centre. Enjoy a taste of the famous Bakewell pudding at a local bakery, or warm up with a hearty meal at one of the traditional pubs. The town also offers boutique shops, cafes, and markets, providing plenty of ways to relax and unwind.

You can stay in unique accommodations in England for your cross-country skiing adventure. Bakewell is home to these accommodations, from charming country cottages to historic inns and cosy bed-and-breakfasts. Many of these provide easy access to the ski trails. For a memorable stay, opt for one of the converted farmhouses or stone cottages featuring rustic charm and modern comforts. 

Cornwall

Cornwall may not be the first place that comes to mind for cross-country skiing in England, but it’s a unique and appealing destination for winter sports enthusiasts. While it doesn’t get heavy snowfall, its mild winters make for comfortable skiing conditions when there is snow. Coastal paths and inland trails provide scenic routes that are less crowded than traditional skiing destinations. For instance, the South West Coast Path boasts stunning sea views and varied terrain for an enjoyable cross-country skiing experience.

After a day of skiing, Cornwall’s rich cultural heritage and recreational activities offer plenty of opportunities to unwind. Explore historic sites like Tintagel Castle, stroll through charming fishing villages like St. Ives, or relax in a local pub with fresh seafood and Cornish ales.

Cornwall’s varied terrain, including its rolling hills, moorlands, cliffs, and beaches, offers a distinctive cross-country skiing experience. Places such as Bodmin Moor and the Camel Trail become especially enchanting after a fresh snowfall, providing stunning vistas for your skiing adventure. Additionally, Cornwall is perfect in the summer. A visit in July places you in the heart of the peak season, which also means you can enjoy the best of the region’s weather.

Manchester

Manchester is another excellent base for cross-country skiing enthusiasts visiting England. Its strategic location and superb transport links make it an ideal starting point for winter sports adventures.

Manchester has a Cross-Country Ski Club that specialises in Nordic skiing and caters to cross-country, roller skiing, and Telemark skiing lovers in Manchester and Preston. The club organises roller ski courses on a purpose-built cycle track at the UCLan Sports Arena in Preston, as well as roller ski tours and racing events. Members can also benefit from Telemark instruction and racing at Chill Factore in Manchester. 

The city is also close to some of the best cross-country skiing spots in England. The Peak District National Park, with its rolling hills and scenic trails, is just a short drive away. Areas like Macclesfield Forest and Kinder Scout have diverse terrains to cater to skiers of all levels. There are also some indoor ski facilities, such as Snozone in Castleford, which is just an hour’s drive from Manchester and is predominantly downhill skiing but can accommodate cross country skiing.

With a wide range of accommodations in Manchester, you won’t have any problems looking for a place to stay. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can stay at luxurious hotels or cosy bed-and-breakfasts. After a day of skiing, you can return to the city’s vibrant atmosphere, enjoying its restaurants, cafes, and cultural sights.

London 

London is an excellent base for cross-country skiing enthusiasts looking to explore England’s winter sports scene. While London itself doesn’t offer traditional cross-country skiing opportunities, its superb transportation links make it a convenient starting point for reaching nearby skiing destinations.

Thanks to London’s extensive rail network, it also offers great places to visit on a rail break in England. The train connects to various cross-country skiing locations in the country. Trains from London’s major stations like King’s Cross, Paddington, and Euston can swiftly take you to prime skiing areas such as the Chiltern Hills, the Peak District, and even as far as the Scottish Highlands for more extensive trails.

Taking a rail break from London to these top skiing destinations provides convenience while allowing you to enjoy scenic journeys through the English countryside. Soak up the picturesque views and the comfort of train travel as you head to your skiing adventures.

When not skiing, you can discover London’s rich cultural scene. Visit world-class museums like the British Museum and the National Gallery, enjoy West End theatre shows, or explore historic landmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.

London is also close to indoor ski centres like The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead and Snozone in Milton Keynes, where you can engage in year-round skiing practice. These places offer cross-country skiing tracks and lessons, making them perfect for beginners.

Peak District

As mentioned before, the Peak District is the perfect destination for cross country skiing. The high-altitude trails around Edale and Kinder Scout are perfect conditions for the sport when snow is present. Located in the southern part of the Peak District, Goyt Valley offers scenic trails and open moorland that is also perfect for cross-country skiing during snowy conditions. 

Cross-country roller skiing is a great way to practice skiing techniques on dry land. The High Peak Trail, a former railway line, offers smooth surfaces and scenic views and is a good option if you are seeking longer routes with minimal traffic. A great idea is to contact local ski or roller skiing clubs for recommendations on the best places for roller skiing in the area, as they may have specific routes or areas they use.

Visiting the Peak District offers a chance to explore some of England’s most stunning landscapes. It’s a perfect destination to also enjoy other outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, climbing, or simply enjoying the peaceful countryside.

When it comes to accommodation, the Peak District provides a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. From cosy country cottages and traditional bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious hotel spas, perfect after a long day of exercise.

Italy is one of the world’s most picturesque countries and a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. While most would come here for its well-known alpine ski resorts, a lesser-known but thrilling pursuit awaits those seeking a more exciting adventure – cross-country skiing. It’s a unique way to discover Italy’s diverse terrains, from the majestic Dolomites to the serene valleys of the Aosta region. Below, check out some of Italy’s best destinations for cross-country skiing.

• Selva

Sitting at the heart of the Dolomites in northern Italy, Selva is a beautiful alpine paradise offering some of the best cross-country skiing experiences. It’s part of the renowned Val Gardena and is known for its well-maintained trails, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage.

Selva boasts over 100 kilometres of meticulously groomed cross-country skiing trails, meandering through picturesque landscapes. The trails boast breathtaking views of the towering Dolomitic peaks, snow-covered forests, and serene valleys. One of Selva’s standout features is the extensive network of interconnected trails, giving skiers various routes to explore without retracing their steps.

Selva’s high altitude and favourable weather conditions ensure reliable snow coverage throughout the winter season. Thus, it’s a dependable destination for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. The village’s infrastructure is top-notch, with numerous rental shops, ski schools, and guided tours available.

Apart from the exceptional trails, Selva offers a charming and vibrant après-ski scene. Indulge in the local Ladin culture, savour traditional cuisine, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the region. The village’s cosy lodges and modern accommodations provide a perfect retreat after a day of skiing.

• Livigno 

Situated in the Italian Alps near the Swiss border, Livigno is a picturesque ski resort town considered one of Italy’s top destinations for cross-country skiing. With its high-altitude setting and consistent snowfall, it boasts extensive pristine cross-country skiing trails of over 30 kilometres. These trails cater to all levels of skiers, so there will be something to enjoy here, whether an expert or a beginner.

One of the standout features of Livigno is its reliable snow conditions, which are among the best in Europe. The trails wind through breathtaking alpine scenery, providing stunning views of snow-covered peaks, dense forests, and serene valleys. Besides the well-maintained trails, Livigno boasts excellent facilities, including rental shops, ski schools, and guided tours.

Livigno’s charm extends beyond its exceptional skiing. The town offers a vibrant apres-ski scene. Here, you’ll find numerous restaurants, bars, and shops where you can relax and unwind. The local cuisine, rich in traditional flavours, adds to the allure of this alpine destination.

For those looking to enhance their trip, there are plenty of luxury Italy tours on offer, perfect for those looking to explore during their cross-country skiing adventures. From exploring historic cities like Rome and Florence to indulging in the culinary delights of Tuscany, there are countless opportunities to experience the best of Italy. These tours often include private guides, exclusive experiences, and top-tier accommodations, providing a seamless and unforgettable journey.

• Kronplatz

Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites in South Tyrol, Italy, Kronplatz is another premier destination for cross-country skiing in Italy. It has an expansive and well-maintained trail network of over 300 kilometres of cross-country skiing tracks.

One of the defining features of Kronplatz is its diverse and scenic terrain. The trails meander through stunning alpine landscapes, passing through dense forests, open meadows, and pristine rivers, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks. This picturesque setting and consistent snow conditions promise an exceptional cross-country skiing experience.

Kronplatz’s high-altitude location and state-of-the-art snow-making facilities guarantee reliable snow coverage throughout the winter season. On top of this, the region has well-marked and groomed trails, which make it a dependable and enjoyable destination for cross-country skiing. The area also offers a variety of trails, including both classic and skating styles, ensuring a diverse and challenging skiing experience.

Kronplatz is also known for its vibrant après-ski scene. The charming villages surrounding the ski area offer a range of accommodations, from cosy mountain lodges to luxurious hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. The local cuisine, rich in Tyrolean flavours, provides a delightful culinary experience, further enhancing its appeal.

• Sicily 

Sicily might not be the first place that comes to mind for cross-country skiing, but it offers a unique and remarkable experience. The island is home to the majestic Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano, which turns into a winter wonderland during the colder months.

Mount Etna boasts well-groomed cross-country skiing trails that cater to all skill levels. Skiing on Etna’s slopes is an extraordinary experience, with trails winding through snow-covered lava fields and ancient forests, all while providing panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. The unique combination of volcanic terrain and Mediterranean climate makes cross-country skiing in Sicily an adventure like no other in Italy!

Apart from its stunning skiing opportunities, there are many incredible places to stay in Sicily. You can choose from luxurious resorts, charming agriturismos, and historic villas, each providing a distinctive taste of Sicilian hospitality.

• Cortina

Cortina d’Ampezzo, often referred to simply as Cortina, is another fantastic destination for cross-country skiing in Italy. Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, this charming alpine town is renowned for its stunning scenery, world-class trails, and rich winter sports heritage.

Cortina has over 70 kilometres of meticulously groomed cross-country skiing trails. These trails wind through breathtaking landscapes, featuring snow-covered meadows, dense forests, and majestic Dolomite peaks. The panoramic views along the routes are nothing short of spectacular, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for every skiing adventure.

Cortina’s standout feature is its reliable snow conditions, thanks to its high altitude and advanced snow-making facilities. Thus, you can expect excellent skiing throughout the winter season. The well-marked and maintained trails feature a variety of terrains and challenges, from gentle, rolling paths for beginners to more demanding routes for experienced skiers.

Beyond its exceptional skiing, Cortina boasts a vibrant apres-ski scene and a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to cosy mountain lodges. 

Switzerland is synonymous with breathtaking alpine scenery and world-class winter sports, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that it’s considered one of the world’s best destinations for cross-country skiing. While downhill skiing often steals the spotlight, the country’s extensive and meticulously maintained cross-country skiing trails are a more serene yet equally exhilarating way to explore its stunning landscapes. 

Whether you’re an avid cross-country skier or a curious beginner, here are the best destinations for cross-country skiing in Switzerland. 

• Verbier

Sitting at the heart of the Swiss Alps in the canton of Valais, Verbier is one of the best destinations for cross-country skiing in Switzerland. This iconic alpine resort is known for its stunning landscapes, well-groomed trails, and excellent facilities, making it a top choice for winter sports.

Verbier’s cross-country skiing trails are exceptional. With over 22 kilometres of meticulously maintained tracks, there is something for every type of skier. These trails wind through breathtaking scenery, including snow-covered meadows, dense forests, and along the edges of picturesque alpine villages. Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Mont Fort and the surrounding peaks, leaving you with a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Alps.

The high altitude of Verbier ensures reliable snow conditions throughout the winter season, typically lasting from late November to early April. The area’s commitment to trail maintenance and snow-making capabilities guarantees optimal skiing conditions, regardless of natural snowfall. This reliability makes Verbier a dependable destination for cross-country skiing enthusiasts seeking consistent snow.

In addition to its excellent trails, Verbier has top-notch facilities and amenities. The resort boasts a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels and chalets to more budget-friendly lodgings, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Take advantage of equipment rental shops, ski schools, and guided tours, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable skiing experience.

• St Moritz 

In the Engadine Valley of Switzerland lies St. Moritz, a world-renowned destination for cross-country skiing. This prestigious alpine resort is celebrated for its stunning landscapes, high-quality trails, and luxurious amenities, making it a top choice for winter sports destinations in Switzerland.

St. Moritz boasts an extensive network of meticulously groomed cross-country skiing trails spanning over 230 kilometres. Glide through serene forests, frozen lakes, and expansive meadows while enjoying panoramic views of the majestic Engadine mountains. The high altitude of St. Moritz ensures reliable snow conditions throughout the winter season, typically lasting until early April.

St. Moritz is excellent in trail maintenance and snow-making capabilities, guaranteeing optimal skiing conditions. The area is also known for hosting international cross-country skiing events, further cementing its reputation as a world-class destination.

For the choice of accommodations, St. Moritz will not disappoint. There are some amazing ski chalet rentals in Switzerland, particularly in St. Moritz. They serve as a perfect base for exploring the region. These chalets combine traditional Swiss charm with modern amenities and feature spacious interiors, stunning views, and top-tier services.

• Arosa

Arosa is in the canton of Graubunden in the Swiss Alps and is another top-tier destination for cross-country skiing in Switzerland. This charming alpine resort offers a quintessential Swiss winter sports experience, making it a must-visit for cross-country skiing enthusiasts.

Arosa has over 30 kilometers of impeccably groomed cross-country skiing trails. The trails meander through stunning alpine scenery, including snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and wide-open meadows. Your skiing adventure here will reward you with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Plus, the variety of terrain ensures that anyone can find routes that match their abilities and preferences.

The high altitude of Arosa and its favorable climate guarantee reliable snow conditions throughout the ski season. This consistency is what makes Arosa popular among cross-country skiers. Additionally, the resort’s well-maintained trails and impressive snow-making capabilities further enhance the quality of the skiing environment here.

Arosa has all the amenities you need for an enjoyable cross-skiing adventure. The town features a selection of accommodations, including the most luxurious chalets. Its local infrastructure includes equipment rental shops, ski schools, and guided tours, so you’ll have everything necessary for a hassle-free and enjoyable skiing holiday.

• Davos 

Renowned for its extensive trail network, breathtaking alpine scenery, and exceptional facilities, Davos is another destination for cross-country skiing. This high-altitude resort town is a go-to destination for world-class winter sports in Switzerland.

In Davos, you can play in its over 100 kilometres of meticulously groomed cross-country skiing trails that wind through diverse landscapes, including serene forests, open meadows, and picturesque river valleys. The variety of terrain and reliable snow conditions here, thanks to the town’s high altitude and advanced snow-making capabilities, ensure a consistently excellent skiing experience.

As one of Switzerland’s top destinations for a winter getaway, Davos has everything you need for your holiday, including luxurious hotels, cosy lodges, and fine dining restaurants. Equipment rental shops, ski schools, and guided tours are readily available for a more enjoyable and seamless skiing adventure.

Switzerland is also an excellent destination for luxury gay travel vacations, and Davos is no exception. The town is known for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, offering high-end accommodations and services that cater to the LGBTQ+ community.

• Grindelwald

In Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland region, you will find Grindelwald, another fantastic destination for cross-country skiing. Winter sports enthusiasts love its spectacular alpine scenery, extensive trail network, and charming village atmosphere. 

Grindelwald boasts a variety of well-groomed cross-country skiing trails that traverse stunning landscapes. Explore routes that wind through snow-covered meadows and dense forests and into the base of towering peaks such as the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. The trails offer diverse terrain, from easy, flat tracks perfect for beginners to more challenging routes for seasoned skiers. 

Grindelaward’s high altitude and state-of-the-art snow-making facilities ensure consistent and excellent skiing conditions throughout the season. Moreover, the resort has well-maintained trails with clear signage, making it easy to navigate the stunning surroundings. Grindelwald is also home to cosy chalets, luxurious hotels, and great restaurants offering diverse dining options.

Scotland is known for its rugged highlands, enchanting lochs, and rich history. It transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, luring winter sports enthusiasts into its dramatic landscapes. Cross-country skiing in Scotland takes you on a thrilling adventure of gliding through Scotland’s pristine snow-covered terrain, allowing you to soak up the country’s serene beauty. Here are the best destinations for cross-country skiing in Scotland.

• Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles. The iconic destination near Fort William in Scotland is known primarily for its challenging hiking and climbing routes. However, it also offers an exceptional experience for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. The mountain’s unique elevation, terrain, and snow conditions make it one of Scotland’s best destinations for cross-country skiing.

Cross-country skiing on Ben Nevis will leave you with unforgettable memories. The trails meander through stunning landscapes, from snow-draped forests and expansive glens to open highland plateaus. Enjoy panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands, with its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque lochs. The scenery alone makes the adventure worthwhile, where you experience a sense of solitude and connection with nature.

One of the things you’ll love most about cross-country skiing in Ben Nevis is its reliable snow cover, particularly on the higher slopes. The mountain’s altitude ensures an extended ski season, much longer than in other areas of the UK, typically lasting from late autumn to early spring. 

Ben Nevis also benefits from its proximity to Fort William, known as the “Outdoor Capital of the UK.” The town offers a range of accommodations, from cosy bed-and-breakfasts to luxury hotels. You’ll also find amenities like equipment rental shops and guided ski tours. The local hospitality and vibrant community make it a welcoming base for any ski adventure in Scotland.

• Glenmore 

Located in the heart of Cairngorms National Park, Glenmore is a premier destination for cross-country skiing in Scotland. Aside from its stunning natural beauty, it has well-maintained trails and excellent skiing facilities. Skiing here will reward you with picturesque landscapes featuring dense pine forests, rolling hills, and breathtaking views of the Cairngorm Mountains.

One of the main attractions of Glenmore for cross-country skiing is the extensive network of trails that cater to all skill levels. Glenmore Forest Park, in particular, has a variety of routes, from gentle, flat paths ideal for beginners to more challenging trails that take skiers deeper into the wilderness. Plus, the well-groomed tracks ensure a smooth and enjoyable skiing experience.

Glenmore’s location within the Cairngorms ensures reliable snow conditions throughout the winter season. The area’s high altitude and favourable weather patterns contribute to consistent snow cover, making it an impressive destination for cross-country skiing. Additionally, the proximity to the Cairngorm Mountain ski area allows you to enjoy cross-country skiing and downhill skiing, perfect for those seeking to experience diverse winter sports.

In addition to its exceptional skiing opportunities, there are plenty of amazing self-guided hiking tours in Scotland that can include everything from hiking and cycling to wildlife watching and kayaking. There are countless ways to enjoy the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

• The Cairngorms 

A vast mountain range and national park, the Cairngorms is one of Scotland’s premier destinations for cross-country skiing. This area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse terrain, and excellent snow conditions.

Thanks to its extensive network of well-maintained trails, you can expect an exceptional experience on your adventure in the Cairngorms. Glide through ancient Caledonian pine forests, across expansive moorlands, and up to scenic mountain plateaus while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Due to the high altitude and favourable weather patterns, the Cairngorms have reliable snow cover, resulting in an extended skiing season.

In addition to its superb skiing opportunities, you will find some of Scotland’s best wild camping spots within the national park. Staying at these sites offers a chance to connect with nature in its purest form. Enjoy serene nights under star-filled skies, with the opportunity to wake up to the stunning landscapes that make this region so beautiful.

• Inverdruie 

Inverdruie is a charming village in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. This picturesque location offers the perfect setting for cross-country skiing, with its stunning natural landscapes, well-maintained trails, and excellent facilities, making it a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts.

The cross-country skiing trails in and around Inverdruie are renowned for their variety and beauty. There are different routes for you to explore, winding through ancient Caledonian pine forests, across tranquil meadows, and along the edges of frozen lochs. The scenic backdrop of the Cairngorm Mountains adds a dramatic and breathtaking element to the adventure. The trails are meticulously groomed and cater to all skill levels, from beginners looking for gentle, easy-going paths to advanced skiers seeking more challenging terrain.

Inverdruie’s high altitude and favourable snow conditions ensure a reliable and enjoyable skiing season. The area’s commitment to maintaining excellent trails and facilities, including equipment rentals and ski lessons, ensures you have everything you need for a memorable cross-country skiing adventure.

Inverdruie also offers a touch of luxury. Visitors can also rent a luxury country house in Scotland, which is a great place to enjoy a lavish break. These mansions often feature stunning views, spacious interiors, and modern conveniences.

• Glenshee

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Glenshee is another top destination for cross-country skiing in Scotland. Known as the “Gateway to the Cairngorms,” it has an expansive ski area that provides a unique and thrilling experience for cross-country skiers.

Glenshee features a variety of well-groomed trails that traverse stunning landscapes, including snow-covered hills, serene valleys, and expansive moorlands, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The high altitude and favourable snow conditions ensure a reliable skiing season, typically lasting from late autumn to early spring.

In addition to its superb skiing opportunities, Glenshee is surrounded by charming villages and cosy accommodations, providing a perfect base for exploring the Highlands. Whether you’re looking for a rustic cabin or a comfortable hotel, the region offers a range of options to suit your needs and preferences.

The clearest correlation to running related injury appears to be training error, which is estimated to account for 60-70% of injuries. But less clear, as this paper digs into, is which variable is most at play: volume, duration, frequency, or intensity? In an attempt to quantify “training error” and provide some guidelines, we have what’s come to be known as the 10% rule. The basic premise here is that you shouldn’t increase your weekly running volume by more than 10% over the previous week. But the 1st rule about rules is that there are no rules. So, this is more guidance than gospel. 

What might be closer to a rule is that injuries happen when the load that’s placed on the body exceeds the body’s ability to tolerate that load. In this equation, we can modify load via training parameters like the variables that the article above attempted to dissect: weekly volume, duration of runs, frequency of runs, and intensity (speed and/or elevation gain and loss). We might further modify running load via surface (pavement vs dirt), footwear quality, and running form (more on that in a minute). On the other side of the equation, we can modify the body’s ability to tolerate load via exercise and preparation for the demands of running (much more on that in a few minutes).

Just like there is no perfect skiing technique, there is no perfect running form. However, in both sports we do have an optimal range, and when movement patterns fall outside of that range they become inefficient. Decreased efficiency equals both decreased performance and increased load, neither of which are desirable. Inconveniently (again), it’s very hard to define what proper running form looks like. It’s maybe easier to define what it doesn’t or shouldn’t look like. Even then, there are only a handful of moderate correlations between aberrant running form and injury. 

At the top of the list is overstriding, aka landing with your foot well out in front of your body’s center of mass. (This is not to be confused with heel striking—landing with initial foot contact through your heel as opposed to mid foot or forefoot. Heel striking isn’t necessarily overstriding though most overstriding does tend to be characterized by heel striking.) The primary issues with overstriding are an increase in peak/impact forces and a decrease in control of the knee, both of which are going to increase load on the body. Without diving too deep into the rabbit hole, the best way to correct an overstride is to increase the cadence or steps per minute—more steps at the same speed equals a shorter stride length. To train this, you need to be on a treadmill at a fixed speed (if you try to increase your cadence outside, you’ll likely just run faster) with your steps timed to the rhythm of a metronome. The target is to increase your steps per minute by 10%, which has been shown to effectively decrease loading rates.

Next up is a lack of pelvic control or what’s often called hip drop or femoral adduction. This occurs when the muscles of the stance leg are overwhelmed and unable to control the hip, and therefore the pelvis. As a result the pelvis drops on the opposite side, altering knee kinematics in the process, and frequently causing knee pain. We look to correct this through exercises targeting hip strength, coordination, and control as well and balance and stability in single leg stance. Conveniently (finally), this would be all of our ski-specific dryland exercises and drills. If you are a FasterSkier regular, then you’ve already seen numerous exercise suggestions here, here, here, here, and here, all of which are quite appropriate for running injury prevention.

That’s a great segue into the other side of the equation: the body’s ability to tolerate load. To paraphrase Geoff Burns, PhD from a recent Science of Sport podcast on running biomechanics, It’s not any one component—joint or muscle—that correlates with injury or performance, but how the system behaves as a whole. We must behave like pogo sticks. More force in equals more force out. But the body must be able to withstand these forces and be able to direct them appropriately. 

Essentially, Dr Burns is saying that running is an inherently high load activity and the body must be adequately prepared (strength, stability, mobility, etc) to handle these loads. Despite Instagram posts proclaiming Five Exercises Every Runner MUST Do! there is no magic exercise. I literally asked three different colleagues, all running injury specialists, What are your top three exercises for preventing running injuries? Inconveniently (here we go again), I got three different answers. 

Not to use that as a cop out, or get away without including pictures of my bald head and yellow-walled basement, here are MY top three exercises for runners (and skiers). These, plus all of your other strength training and pay-to-play maintenance exercises, should be in the mix two or three times a week. As with any exercise, the goal is to challenge or nudge the body in order to get the desired adaptations. This, as with all training, is a bit of a Goldilocks thing: too hot and the body is unhappy and let’s you know about it; too cold and nothing happens. Please be aware that these exercises (and the ones in my previous articles linked above) may not be your Goldilocks. If you are currently dealing with a running related injury (or any musculoskeletal pain), please visit your friendly, neighborhood physical therapist instead of searching for an internet cure.

Triple Extension

This is a classic running form drill to promote pushing through the hip, knee, and ankle. The shape–the ability to fully extend the hip and knee while going high on your toes–is arguably more applicable to sprinters than distance runners; however, it makes my list due to the work done by the calf muscles which are major players in running.

• Stand on one foot about 3 feet away from a wall. Hands are on the wall at about shoulder height. Imagine the wall is falling on you and you need to push it back upright. At the foot, your weight is biased toward the front of the foot so the heel is just high enough off the ground that you could slide a credit card under it.
• Still holding up the wall, drop down into a low squat with your opposite leg trailing behind. 
• With a quick push, stand as tall as you can. You should have equal weight from the inside to outside of the foot, and the knee and hip should be straight, but thinking about getting tall often accomplishes the task.
• If doing this exercise on one leg is too challenging, you can do it both legs together.
• Aim for 2-3 sets of 10x on each side. This is also a good running warm up.

Bulgarian Split Squats aka Trail Leg Lunges

These work the glutes and quads more than squats due to the staggered stance and place more load (and balance demand) on the front leg than traditional lunges. More bang for your buck! The version I’m showing uses a hip strategy/hip hinge/trunk lean to increase the work done by the glutes.

• Feet are staggered with the back foot on a step, box, chair, or bench. 
• To determine the placement of the front foot, sit on the front edge of the step, box, etc. Straighten the working leg out in front of you. Keeping the heel on the floor, stand up onto that leg. Then place the back leg on the step with the sole of the foot vs top of the foot.
• As you drop into the lunge, your hips should go straight down.
• Aim your fingers for the sides of your ankle. This will promote the forward trunk lean.
• The knee will move forward a bit but shouldn’t be going past your toes.
• Shoot for 2-3 sets of 10x. You can make it harder by adding weights or increasing the height of the furniture. It can be regressed by keeping your back foot on the ground.

Side Planks

Typically thought of as a core strength exercise, which it very much is, these also do a lot to  work gluteus medius, a major stabilizer at the hip (see the bit on pelvic drop above).

• Lying on your side, prop yourself up between the outside of your bottom foot and your elbow/forearm.
• Ankle, knee, hip, and shoulder are in a straight line, and your body should be vertical like a wall, not sagging or twisting to one side or the other.
• This is a timed hold. 30 seconds is a win. A minute is a gold medal but is getting boring and ready for some progressions (try it from your hand instead of elbow, add moving the top leg up and down, or twist like you’re reaching the top hand under your armpit). An easier version is to go from the knees instead of the feet (still keep your knee, hip and shoulder in line but bend at the knees so your feet are behind you).

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France is one of the most beautiful countries for cross-country skiing, blessed with breathtaking landscapes that attract winter sports enthusiasts. The country caters to skiers of all levels, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned one looking to discover the scenic beauty of the French Alps. 

From the extensive trails of Courchevel to the picturesque routes in Morzine, here are the best destinations for cross-country skiing in France.

Courchevel

At the heart of the French Alps is a picturesque mountain resort town called Courchevel, considered one of France’s best destinations for cross-country skiing. It’s within the vast Three Valleys ski area and boasts an extensive network of meticulously groomed trails that cater to all levels of cross-country skiers. 

Courchevel has over 67 kilometers of scenic trails, winding through enchanting snow-covered forests, open meadows, and along the serene banks of the Rosiere stream. These trails allow you to experience the scenic beauty of the French Alps to the fullest, with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

One of Courchevel’s standout features is its variety of routes. The easy Boucle de Bellecote trail is perfect for novices seeking leisurely glide through picturesque landscapes. On the other hand, the more challenging loops, such as the Route des Creux, offer steep climbs and exhilarating descents that thrill even the most experienced skiers.

Courchevel is also known for its top-notch facilities. The resort provides well-equipped rental shops, professional ski schools, and dedicated areas for biathlon enthusiasts. In addition, the resort has regularly maintained tracks for optimal skiing conditions throughout the season.

Meribel 

Meribel is another ski resort in the Three Valleys ski area of the French Alps and a fantastic place to visit for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. The resort has an impressive network of well-groomed trails, making it a paradise for skiers of all levels, from beginners to experienced skiers.

Meribel boasts over 33 kilometers of dedicated cross-country skiing tracks. These trails take you through stunning alpine scenery, including serene forests and open valleys. The Altiport area, in particular, is a favourite among cross-country skiers for its gentle slopes and scenic routes, perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful skiing experience. 

One of the highlights of Meribel is its excellent facilities. The resort provides top-quality rental shops, professional ski schools, and regular trail maintenance, ensuring you have everything you need for an enjoyable and safe experience. The village is charming, with traditional Alpine architecture, cosy restaurants, and lively apres-ski options.

There are plenty of incredible villa rentals in France, and some are in Meribel. These villas provide the perfect home base for cross-country skiers and give easy access to the trails. Many of these villas are equipped with modern amenities, including private saunas and hot tubs, allowing you to unwind in style after a day on the slopes.

Chamonix

Sitting at the base of Mont Blanc in the French Alps, Chamonix is another excellent destination for cross-country skiing in France. Renowned for its dramatic scenery and rich alpine heritage, Chamonix lures avid skiers with its challenging trails, stunning landscapes, and exceptional amenities.

The resort boasts over 40 kilometres of groomed cross-country skiing trails. Beginners can enjoy the gentle, scenic routes in the Chamonix Valley, such as the Bois du Bouchet trail, which has breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. The more experienced skiers can tackle the challenging trails in the Argentiere area, with steep climbs and thrilling descents.

Chamonix has diverse trails to cater to everyone. You can glide through dense pine forests, across open meadows, and along the banks of the Arve River while surrounded by the stunning alpine scenery. These well-marked trails have regular maintenance to ensure excellent skiing conditions.

Chamonix has all the facilities for an enjoyable skiing holiday, including rental shops, ski schools, and biathlon ranges. The resort’s vibrant town has a wealth of après-ski options, from gourmet restaurants and lively bars to luxurious spas and boutique shopping.

Val d’Isere

Nestled in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps, Val d’Isere has the perfect setting for cross-country skiing. With over 21 kilometers of well-maintained trails that cater to all skill levels, it promises excellent cross-country skiing opportunities. The resort’s scenic routes meander through pristine alpine meadows and dense forests, with breathtaking views and a serene landscape.

The Manchet Valley is a highlight for cross-country skiers, offering diverse trails that range from gentle beginner tracks to challenging routes for seasoned skiers. Its tranquil setting and meticulously groomed trails ensure an exceptional skiing experience.

Val d’Isere has top-tier rental shops, professional ski schools, and biathlon areas, which enhance its appeal. The village is charming, featuring traditional alpine architecture and modern amenities, including cosy cafes, fine dining restaurants, and luxurious spas.

Expatriate travellers should consider opting for expat travel insurance when cross-country skiing in France. This specialised insurance provides comprehensive coverage tailored to the unique needs of expats, ensuring peace of mind and protection against unexpected events.

Morzine

Situated in the Portes du Soleil region of the French Alps, Morzine is an exceptional destination for cross-country skiing in France. This charming alpine village has over 45 kilometers of meticulously groomed trails. The routes wind through stunning landscapes, including snow-covered forests, serene meadows, and along the banks of the Dranse River. 

One of Morzine’s standout features is the variety of its trails. Beginners can enjoy the gentle loops around the village, while more experienced skiers can challenge themselves on the more demanding routes in the nearby Pléney and Nyon areas. 

Morzine also boasts top-notch facilities, including well-equipped rental shops, professional ski schools, and dedicated biathlon areas, making it easy for skiers to find everything they need. The village boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere with cosy chalets, fine dining options, and relaxing spas, perfect for unwinding after a day on the trails. 

Additionally, Morzine’s range of luxury chalets and villas provides ideal accommodation options for those seeking comfort and convenience during their cross-skiing adventures. With its diverse trails and excellent facilities, it’s no wonder Morzine stands out as a prime destination for cross-country skiing in France.

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FasterSkier: Your backstory is interesting. You’re a mechanical engineer and have a master’s in economics. You wrote your thesis about the price theory of ski lift ticket pricing. Can you summarize your thesis about ski lift pricing?

Andy Gerlach: My thesis analyzed why you still pay for a day of skiing rather than per ride. In a perfectly competitive industry, the economic models say you should be paying per ride. I argued the reason you pay for a one day lift ticket, is that they’re monopolistic. I showed that the skier who pays the most is a local, the person who pays the least is a tourist who has competition and can ski anywhere, so the areas package their lift tickets and give discounts to the far off skiers, so the locals pays the most. So, there is no competition at the local level. It’s more monopolistic the closer you are to the ski area. Lift area pricing is unique and only an economist would care about it.

FasterSkier: So, given your background, do you have conversations with cross-country ski trail operators about their pricing?

Andy Gerlach: No. But the one thing I’m hearing over and over is we want to be selling skiing, not groomed trails … trying to sell skiing as a lifestyle, maybe selling memberships instead of trail passes. Cross-country skiing is a complicated sport. It’s very scary to get into because of the amount of gear involved, from the consumer perspective. We don’t do enough to make it simple. We need to package it in a better manner so we’re selling the sport and the lifestyle rather than individual products.

FasterSkier: Does that argue for an all in one venue where you ski, buy equipment, and stay in one place?

Andy Gerlach: Areas like that are fabulous, but many of our skiers don’t need them. If you live in Minneapolis, you stay at your home, but they still need to be able to happen across cross-country ski equipment. We make it difficult for a person to get into the sport. In the 1970s there were sporting goods stores that sold cross-country ski equipment everywhere. You could buy ski equipment even at Dayton’s (a former department store). Now you have to know about the shops. Compare it to snowshoeing, which sells a limited proposition … you look at it (the snowshoe) and it says it will work for you and fit you. You can impulse buy snowshoeing. It’s difficult in America to impulse buy cross-country skiing.

FasterSkier: How do you get that to happen?

Andy Gerlach. My next goal is to simplify cross-country ski purchasing to find ways to make it more readily accessible to the masses.

FasterSkier: Do you have ideas on how to implement that?

Andy Gerlach: Yes, but I can’t go sharing them (laughing). Everyone asks if the sport is growing or shrinking? Covid helped grow the sport, it was a boom sport, and has now receded. This past winter was terrible because of the lack of snow. I’d like to find ways to make everything about selling the sport, rather than selling the equipment. We want to sell solutions. Remember those pocket guides?

FasterSkier: Yes, I still have them.

Andy Gerlach: I plan to relaunch those and am relaunching the Factory Team.

FasterSkier: What is the need to bring back the Factory team?

Andy Gerlach: Since we closed the Factory Team, most every Loppet in America has coincidentally shrunk in size, in the last 15 years, other than the Birkebeiner. I’m not saying that caused it. But bringing it back can help. I’m also bringing it back because too much in American ski racing has been about “how did you do; rather than how do you do?”  We want the Factory Team to be about “how do you do?” our athletes meeting other skiers, and about skiing rather than what place did you get.

FasterSkier: Personally, I’ve grown frustrated with the how did you do mentality, and the injury reports everyone seems to give you when you say hello?

Andy Gerlach: Of course they do! Because if all we can discuss is how did you do, then you have to make your explanations of why you didn’t do it. But if you can sell the sport for the joy of gliding across snow, and the winter landscape, then we’re selling the spirit that most of us are really in it for. I felt some of it at the Birkie this past year. People didn’t think there was going to be a Birkebeiner, and when there was one with barely any timing— everyone was so overjoyed— they were thankful to be able to ski with their buddies, get together, and have their goal they could still accomplish with even less pressure. They weren’t really being timed so they could just go ski it for their joy. Like skiing was way back when.

Annika Landis— who was our first athlete on the Factory Team relaunch— came on board with the proposition of racing with skiers instead of against skiers. We also want skiers to realize that there are great races and tours all over America. You can see this joy of cross-country skiing rather than this “how did you do?” Last year we relaunched the team with one skier, Annika Landis. This year there will be two, with Simon Zink joining her. It will be called EnjoyWinter-NTS Factory Team. The NTS is Nordic training solutions run by Andy Newell. His company is the co-title sponsor. NTS is the training technique expert. We hope to keep doubling the size, but you have to start by putting one foot in front of the other. Back in the day I had 14 athletes on the Factory Team. The goal of the athletes is allowing them to chase their athletic dreams but with the passion of skiing with skiers rather than against them.

FasterSkier: You see it as more than just a brand building mechanism, but more of a way to change the mindset of participants?

Andy Gerlach: It’s to be more engaged with the community of skiers, dealers, and clubs, and sharing expertise and passion. Racing gets the attention, but there are more people who don’t race than do race. Also, look at the Ski Classic racing in Europe, there are the top teams whose names you know, but there are like 60 teams! What I’d love to do, is to do American Ski Classics. The exciting thing isn’t the top team, but the 60^th, team like Sven’s Welding shop (I just made that up). They’re not trying to compete with the winners, they’re just people who love ski racing, and employees can join our team. Wouldn’t it be great if at the Birkie, or Tour of Anchorage, had five businesses where the owners love skiing, or want to market to skiers could say hey this is our business and we’re sponsoring this race team run by our employees?

FasterSkier: There’s a little bit of a chicken and the egg problem here though, right?

Andy Gerlach: Yes. One of my goals is to launch with a few marathons this coming winter and a few businesses; a way where a business can say we’re supporting our athletes and we’re going to start a team. Clubs are great for junior racing, but there should be ways where master skiers can feel enthused and training for a purpose. If you say you’re skiing the Birkie, you’re a hero at your local shop, at your work place for just doing the Birkie. People just say, “I’m skiing the Birkie, it’s like doing an Ironman— if you put the sticker on your car, you’re a hero. Skiing in America needs to have some accomplishment of doing a skiing adventure without having the pressure of how did you do? As soon as our Factory Team athletes start affecting the local Loppet community, then our competitors; they’ll start investing more again into their trade teams, and suddenly there will be a bit more energy and enthusiasm for Loppet racing. This ties in with a longer goal. How can you make cross-country skiing an impulse buy again, where someone could be in Costco and instead of grabbing a sled, they could instead again grab a pair of skis for themselves and their kids?

FasterSkier: If you can sell cross-country skiing equipment at Costco that would be amazing!

Andy Gerlach: That’s been a goal of mine for a long time. I’ve proposed it to every ski brand that I’ve worked with and there were always many reasons for why it can’t be done, rather than finding ways to do it. Our goal is to provide these simple solutions to selling skiing instead of selling skis. If we can do that, then larger merchants can sell skiing, rather the skis, we can make skiing more accessible.

FasterSkier: Isn’t some of that moving away from the model of very specific weight correlations for skis? If you’re selling at Costco, you need small, medium, and large sizes only, right?

Andy Gerlach: Yes, and we have that. You go to Europe and it’s much easier than it is here. Americans have been taught that every one kilogram on a ski matters, and in Europe they don’t. Skis are much more versatile than Americans are led to believe. For the majority of skiers, the fitting process isn’t as delicate as we’ve been told. We need to provide solutions that work at the basic level more, rather than what is necessary for a World Cup skier to make up two seconds in a 10-k. When it’s that complicated, you’re too scared to buy anything. We’re trying to get someone to walk into a store with their family during a big storm, and then you can go home and glide across snow in your backyard. We want them to think about skiing as a lifestyle rather than a piece of equipment.

FasterSkier: Anything else you want to talk about?

Andy Gerlach: If I read the tagline from the original Factory Team; I’m still using the same one today; “without ski equipment snow is something you shovel. With ski equipment snow is something you glide on. Wouldn’t you rather glide than shovel.”

FasterSkier: That’s a great tagline.

Andy Gerlach: For the skier we have the hard goods. But just selling equipment and not sharing the expertise and the joy doesn’t do much good. So, we have Ski Post, our email newsletter—which we’ve had for 30 years—that exists to share, and it’s not just about our new products, but how people are using the products. There’s a lot I want to accomplish, we are getting a little bit done, day by day, for the sport.

FasterSkier thanks Andy Gerlach for taking time to speak with us about EnjoyWinter and his goal to change the ski world.

Norwegian Origins

There are some debates about the origins of cross-country skiing. Archaeological findings suggest the earliest equipment and records date back to 600 BC in China. However, many believe the Sami people of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia were likely using skis for 6,000 years or more.

Cross-country skiing started as a form of transportation. Northern Europe’s cold, snowy climate required people to head into the mountains and woods to hunt animals and find firewood, which took considerable time and effort, especially when trudging through deep snow. Skis enabled travelers to glide along the snow, saving energy and time.

Depictions of early skiers also show distinct equipment setups. Drawings and descriptions of skiers and their methods suggest a transition to recreational skiing took place when older images featuring a spear eventually evolved into more recent examples showing two poles and a method for carrying items. Skis also changed over time, with skiers learning the benefits of a longer ski for gliding and a shorter ski with fur for traction, pushing off, and gaining speed.

Competitive Cross-Country Skiing

The Norwegian military popularized cross-country skiing as a sport. Army records from the 1700s show the first organized ski competitions taking place in Norway, in some cases, with prizes. The city of Tromsø hosted one of the first public cross-country competitions, which became big enough to attract the attention of a local newspaper reporter.

The country continued to build upon the athleticism and history of cross-country skiing with events like the Holmenkollen Ski Festival, which started in 1892. The festival brought the fun and competitive spirit of the sport with cross-country races and ski jumps to crowds of more than 10,000. Holmenkollen’s tradition continues, with the event gathering skiers from northern Europe every March.

Cross-country skiing gained traction in Europe in the 20th century. As France prepared for the first modern Winter Olympics in 1924, skiers formed a governing body for skiing called the International Ski Federation, or the FIS. Norway and Finland dominated the cross-country skiing event, while Switzerland, Finland, and France won medals in the military patrol event (now called the biathlon), which combines cross-country skiing and rifle target shooting. The first FIS competition occurred the following year and featured cross-country and Nordic combined races. The popularity of the events has grown to such an extent that the modern FIS World Cup regularly attracts wagers from the types of people who seek out promotions like the $200 free spin no deposit offer.

In 1932, Norway began hosting a ski race known as the Birkebeiner to commemorate a legendary rescue effort of two Norwegian soldiers who kept an infant prince safe from an ongoing civil war by skiing with the child through mountainous terrain. The modern race is about 33 miles, including a 12-mile climb, all done with a 7-pound backpack meant to represent the prince’s weight.

Meanwhile, the Arctic Circle Race may be one of the most extreme cross-country competitions. Featuring challenging terrain comprising steep descents and climbs, the race takes place over 100 miles in frigid temperatures in cities near Sisimiut, Greenland.

Modern Cross-Country Skiing and Techniques

Like many sports, cross-country skiers have developed techniques to maximize their athletic abilities. In previous centuries, skiers glided along with the classic method of skiing that closely resembles walking. In 1976, however, Bill Koch popularized the “skating” technique after becoming the first American to win a medal in the Olympic Games. As the name suggests, skate skiing looks more like the skier is skating on their skis by shifting their weight from side to side. For athletes who master skating, the speed difference is significant.

The new technique prompted controversy, as some professional skiers remained adamant that skating and skiing were not the same sport. Their perspective may be correct, as the two skiing styles require different kinds of skis. The skating method benefitted from a shorter ski with a narrow tip, while classic skis worked best with a longer base and broader head. Just a few years after Koch’s success, the Olympics separated the methods into two events and created a freestyle event for skiers who preferred skating.

Recent Ski History

Cross-country skiing has maintained a prominent international status. The 2018 Winter Olympic Games featured the team of Jessie Diggins and Kikkan Randall winning America’s first women’s gold medal in a sport traditionally dominated by northern Europe. Diggins became a national hero as she came from behind in the race’s final moments and won by less than a ski length.

Conclusion

What started as a way for northern Europeans to get around during snowy winters has become an international sport. Cross-country skiing remains a popular Olympic sport and tradition for many skiers who wish to brave the elements and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Last month, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation sprang into registrants’ inboxes with a summer announcement: Ben Popp, Wisconsin native and ABSF Executive Director since 2013, had been elected President of the Worldloppet International Ski Federation. Replacing Finland’s Juho Viljamaa, Popp will serve a four year term, effective immediately.

He already has the regalia to prove it. The Federation’s gavel, a relic of the Tony Wise Era, has taken a circuitous path through Central and Northern Europe—but Popp’s election returns that artifact, and the Presidency, to the site of the Worldloppet’s establishment some five decades ago. “It’s literally inscribed: ‘Telemark Lodge, Wisconsin USA, Feb. 23 1978,’” Popp tells me.

To any skier who has made the trek from Cable to Hayward in the last eleven years, Popp cuts a familiar figure. Energetic, upbeat, and faster-paced than a sprint finish, he’s become a fixture of all things Birkebeiner—churning out trail-grooming update videos, fundraising initiatives, and ambitious projects ranging from a revitalization of the once-derelict Telemark Property to the Team Birkie, the Midwest’s professional racing team. Moreover, he’s brought the event safe to shore through three great calamities: the Canceled Birkie (politely remembered as “BirkieFest”; 2017), the Covid Birkie (2021), and the Manmade Miracle Birkie (2024).

It therefore comes as no surprise that Popp has assumed the Worldloppet Presidency with characteristic vigor—and lofty goals. FasterSkier spoke with Popp to discuss what they are, and how he plans to achieve them.

“What skiers needed back in 1978 is very different from what we need right now.”

Despite “representing popular skiing around the world,” the Worldloppet is a small operation, with two full-time employees headquartered in Tartu, Estonia. As Popp describes it, their efforts to coordinate ten events across five continents are “Herculean.” Countries tend to concentrate on their own ski federations, and on their respective flagship races. “It’s hard for them to focus” on the collaborative, international mission of the Worldloppet.

That’s where Popp sees himself differing from presidents past. When it comes to filling the Worldloppet’s two primary goals—providing support for member nations as they host “pre-eminent events,” and providing support for the more than 130,000 skiers who tackle Worldloppet races each year—the organization has gotten “really good at doing the same things over the years, and doing them really well,” like the Worldloppet Passport.

But Popp recognizes that “what skiers needed back in 1978 is very different from what we need right now.” It seems he views the Worldloppet of the past as catering to those already enamored with the sport and its signature marathons. The Worldloppet of the future can do more to expand the range and reach of popular skiing—even if that requires a course correction. “I know change can be really hard,” Popp says, “But believe it or not, I think the Worldloppet and global, popular skiing can be even bigger than FIS. Instead of focusing on getting a young skier from the U.S. to travel to Japan, we should be asking, ‘How can Japan engage its own young skiers?’”

Popp’s electors seem to agree: In fact, the Scandinavian delegations nominated Popp because of the athletic inroads he’s paved with the ABSF. “The Scandinavians know that the United States is seeing skiing grow in leaps and bounds, from the success of Jessie Diggins to almost 15,000 skiers at the Birkie. They know something’s going on here. They asked me, ‘Can you take it to the world?’”

An “absolute recipe for growth.”

What is Popp’s plan for growing cross-country skiing—for engaging new skiers at Worldloppet events?

In his own words, it’s a page from the NFL’s playbook: To get incoming athletes excited, “We need to marry skiing’s role models to everyday skiers. This is what the NFL does; it’s how they sell out stadiums every Sunday”—connecting the sport’s elite to their fans. The stars of the FIS World Cup are, currently, “just not part of what we think of as popular skiing.” Popp wants to change that—and wants the Worldloppet to take the lead “plugging in” Crystal Globe-chasers to the marathoning masses. “We can negotiate and create connections. We can get these role models to our races.”

He cites the Birkie’s recent collaboration with Jessie Diggins and Gus Schumacher (its 2024 champions) as proof of concept. The median age of a Birkie skier has fallen from 47 to 43.7, and young athletes are increasingly participating in ABSF events for a chance to meet these avatars of America’s Nordic ambitions. At this year’s Birkie Bash, an annual pre-race fundraising dinner, “half the room was kids, 18 or younger—they were there to see Jessie and Gus!” With the encouragement of the Worldloppet, the same could be true of New Zealand’s Merino Muster or Australia’s Kangaroo Hoppet (which Diggins has won multiple times): Popp sees more summer-training elites competing in these Southern Hemisphere marathons as a clear way to build enthusiasm in host nations.

Popp has his eyes on names from beyond the U.S. Ski Team as well. “I was talking with Haakon Klæbo last week, discussing how we can bring [Johannes Høsflot] Klæbo more into popular skiing.” Having charmed crowds of adoring young fans from Park City to Minneapolis, it should come as no surprise that the Norwegian phenom “wants to be engaged. He wants to be a role model and to bring more people into the sport.”

This involvement could go beyond racing Worldloppet events when the World Cup schedule permits, to incorporating these events into the World Cup itself. It’s happened twice before (La Transjurassienne in 2000 and the Birkebeinerrennet in 2002). Popp’s American Birkebeiner floated a bid for the 2024 World Cup schedule immediately after Minneapolis, with Main Street sprints on Wednesday and the Birkie itself on Saturday. A price tag pushing $3 million thwarted that effort, but Popp sees elites and popular skiers, tackling the same races, as the key to the longevity and financial viability of both worlds. “It’s a proven model. Look at the New York Marathon, the Boston Marathon. Who doesn’t want to run those—they’re iconic races, and you’re on the same course, the same starting line, as the best athletes in the sport. There will be concessions on both sides, and it will take some creativity,” but “if we can marry the popular consumers of skiing with the elite, it’s an absolute recipe for growth.”

Sustainability and support from “the hub of the wheel.”

Popp’s new direction for the Worldloppet goes beyond his hopes of exciting wider audiences. He sees the organization facilitating resource and knowledge-sharing between world-class events that have, thus far, largely remained “in our own unique silos. We’ve all learned through trial and error. But we haven’t necessarily come together as a group.” A unified timing and registration system, for example, has seemed like a phantasmic “pipe dream on paper,” but each race is “spending an enormous amount of money on data collection, registration, and data storage.” In addition to reducing costs, the data could be leveraged to secure event sponsors. While the Worldloppet cannot be “the whole wheel,” it can be “the hub of the wheel”—a central source of direction, activity, and coordination around which individual races organize, and around which skiers structure broader cultural experiences.

Snowmaking is another prime example. This year’s “Miracle Birkie” took place on 10k of man-made snow; the 2024 China Vasaloppet was on 25k, hand-moved to the course. Fed by the guns of eight local alpine resorts and maneuvered into place by the Italian National Guard, the Marcialonga has been almost entirely on man-made snow for the last decade. Other events may not have that infrastructure—but they’ve developed their own strategies for coping with low snow that the Worldloppet can help systematize. Trails can be manicured in the off-season to maximize their ski-ability, even with minimal coverage; Norway and Switzerland have perfected long-term snow-storage with cement basins, drains, and coverings. Each nation’s Worldloppet race “wants to put on an amazing experience. That means we have to be the best at what we do,” even in a warming climate.

It’s with respect to climate that Popp also sees a distinct role for the Worldloppet. This is despite his recognition that there’s pronounced tension between the organization’s globetrotting ethos and any desire for more sustainable practices. Reusable gear bags—of which the ABSF has sold over 20,000 since 2017—could be one avenue for promoting conservation. So could carbon offsets, or broader opportunities for group travel to race events, including through partnerships with independent, curated trip coordinators. But the goal, Popp says, is to transform every Worldloppet skier into “an advocate, and to get them to get others to be advocates” for “green futures.” Telling the story of the reusable bag, or of a mass-transit journey to the start line, can create a network of climate-conscious athletes. While there’s “a long tail on that horse, we have to start somewhere,” Popp says. “We can’t get paralyzed with ‘what-ifs.’ We’ll get nowhere.”

Pedaling ahead.

Reflecting on his 11 years at the head of the American Birkebeiner, Popp is approaching his four-year presidency with an ambitious vision for the Worldloppet. “The Birkie has an amazing, storied history, and it’s been super successful.” But directing one of skiing’s signature marathons—let alone an international federation of such events—is “like riding a bicycle. If you’re not pedaling forward, you’re going to fall over. The challenge is to remain relevant.” What the Worldloppet “has been doing is awesome, and we have a lot of people that love skiing,” but the organization needs to “take a critical look and better evaluate whether we are doing the things that allow us to grow.” This will require closer dialogue with athletes, engagement with elite skiers, and coordination of FIS’ Popular Skiing Subcommittee, where Worldloppet representatives occupy a “huge majority” of the 20 seats. Popp expects a “day-to-day challenge.” But, “I think it’s worth the time and effort because we can have a real impact on global skiing.”

Ben Popp will continue to serve as Executive Director of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. FasterSkier thanks Popp for taking the time to speak with us about his new role at the Worldloppet International Ski Federation.

We live in an era where product lines are often dominated by several large companies. More and more, small companies are bought up by large corporations as soon as the small company shows an innovation or growth pattern which its lumbering competitor can’t duplicate. Consolidation, just shy of monopoly, is standard practice for many industries.  Fortunately for skiers, this pattern hasn’t held true for cross-country ski wax. There are the big two—which is really the big one—but there are lots of small “mom and pop” wax companies putting out shockingly good products which are every bit as good, and sometimes better than their major competitors.

FasterSkier has previously taken an up close look at family run wax companies, when we profiled Rex, Fast Wax, and Rode. We now turn our eyes toward another family run operation, STAR Ski Wax. STAR is the definition of a family run business.  STAR was founded in 1978 in the Italian town of Asiago by Roberto Mosele while he was employed in an Astrophysics laboratory where he was responsible for the design and implementation of a new digital orientation system for the observatories’ telescope. His occupation at the time as an observatory employee is how the company’s name was derived. Like many great ideas, STAR wax was the result of a dare taken on by Roberto Mosele over 45 years ago.

If there is something vaguely familiar about this story it’s probably because you might remember that Rode ski wax was also founded and manufactured in Asiago (population approximately 6,500). Whatever murky forces are at work in Asiago leading to the confluence of wax manufacturing is a mystery; perhaps it’s the cheese? But as wax consumers, it’s probably best to leave that puzzle to the ages and focus on the great products coming out of this small Italian town.

Davide Mosele the product manager of Star was kind enough to answer FasterSkier’s questions about the family wax business. Davide, 48 years old, is Roberto’s son, and is now responsible for the day to day operation of the business. His mother—Roberto’s wife— also works in the company along with Davide’s wife Cristina. With a grand total of six employees, it’s truly a family affair.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

FasterSkier: How was the company started and what was it like in the early days?

Davide Mosele: Star was founded in 1978 by Roberto (Davide’s father). Roberto was out cross-country skiing with friends, gliding through the snow-covered landscape. As they paused to wax their skis, one friend exclaimed, “Wow, it must be really difficult to make these products.” With a spark of determination in his eyes, Roberto declared, “I can do it!” What started as a lighthearted challenge among friends soon became a journey of passion and perseverance.

Over the next two years, Roberto poured his heart and soul into the project. It was far from easy, with countless trials and errors, but his unwavering dedication paid off. He eventually crafted an almost complete line of high-performing ski waxes. It was then that he began to dream of turning his new found expertise into a business.

At that time, Roberto was working for the Astrophysics Observatory of the University of Padova in Asiago. This connection to the stars inspired the name STAR for his burgeoning company.

Like many legendary startups, STAR began in the most humble of settings: a garage. As a child, I vividly remember his first laboratory being none other than  my mother Donna’s kitchen. It was a whimsical sight, finding spaghetti pasta and ski wax sharing the same stove.

In those days, ski wax was often seen as a mystical product, but Roberto approached it with scientific rigor. What began as a garage project has now grown into two thriving buildings, and the playful bet with friends has evolved into a globally recognized company.

Today, STAR stands as a testament to Roberto’s vision and determination, a shining example of how a simple challenge can spark the creation of something extraordinary.

FasterSkier: As product manager, what is your role?

Davide Mosele: I deal with “products” at 360 degrees, from developing to testing them on snow. I follow races, talk with wax technicians, skiers, and share information. At the same time, I am present in the production area when we are “ cooking/ melting” product lots.

In a small family company we all know about all the things that are happening. Our coffee break in the morning is what  a big company would call a “ general meeting” where many people, probably even located in different countries,  have to make decisions and share information.

Roberto is still following production and new product development as well, and can share a lot of experience.

FasterSkier: Are there other family members involved?

Davide Mosele: Donna (Davide’s mother, and Roberto’s wife) has been working in the company in the sales and accounting department for 40 years. I have been working in the company since I was 18. I graduated in  Engineering at Padova University in 2003 (which is the site of the observatory). My wife Cristina is managing the accounting office and sales for 15 years. My best friend Riccardo is also an important part of the company, taking care of all the mechanical department and running production machines.

FasterSkier: Do you see yourselves as underdogs battling the big two wax companies?

Davide Mosele: I believe that the size of a company is not always the key to success. In many industries, we often see large companies acquiring small start-ups that are able to innovate much faster.

STAR has carved out its space in the market thanks to the quality of our products and our ability to innovate and react quickly to market changes. While I respect the big companies as well as all other competitors, I do not feel like an underdog!

FasterSkier: What does your Research and Development (R & D) look like in terms of the skills and background of the people who work there and the size?

Davide Mosele: Research and Development (R&D) is the heart of our company; everything evolves around it. With over 40 years of experience, we approach each day with a curiosity that drives us to improve our products continually. We seek out anything that can help make skis faster.

Many of our products originate from specific customer requests—sometimes seemingly crazy ideas that turn into the perfect inspiration for a successful product.

I closely follow World Cup races, Ski Classics, and junior races. I am in contact with numerous professional ski technicians, and I gather all their insights to enhance our products. As a serviceman at these races, I know exactly which ingredients are used in our products. This firsthand knowledge helps me understand the effects of different ingredients on snow and enables us to respond quickly to any requests.

FasterSkier: What kind of seemingly crazy ideas do you get which lead to success?

Davide Mosele: Often, technicians find that a product works even in conditions for which it was not designed, or that when applied in a different way, the result seems better. Based on this information, I work on the formulation to optimize it for the new conditions of use. In other cases, the requirements are very specific. For example, last year we received many requests from Ski Classics teams. They needed a product that could last for their “long distances”… even 70-100 km. From this particular request, the “Durable” powder product was born, which was very successful. Later, they also asked us to develop the same product in liquid form! Durable Liquid proved to be very effective in extremely cold, abrasive, and dry snow conditions.

FasterSkier: Do you look to other industries to see what new compounds are available, or are you trying to invent new compounds?

Davide Mosele: As a product manager, I am always on the lookout for new material and innovative ideas. My curiosity, combined with my academic background, helps me understand the scientific advancements in materials.

I don’t just focus on new ingredients; I also explore how to achieve the best performance through different application methods. The same ingredients can perform differently when applied in various ways. For example, our fast-drying Next liquid, applied with a wool roller, has become a market benchmark. It’s not just about the chemistry but also about the application technique.

At STAR, we help our customers find simple yet highly effective methods to apply ski wax, ensuring optimal performance on the slopes.

FasterSkier: From the point of view of the wax industry, is the move away from fluoros a good thing? Has it been harder for small companies to adapt to this change?

Davide Mosele: When a new regulation comes into effect, it’s pointless to argue whether it is right or wrong; you just need to react and find a new solution. For those following the EU/EPA regulations, it was clear that fluorocarbons would have a short lifespan.

In 2019, I stopped considering fluorocarbons as an ingredient for ski wax and immediately began developing products using other material. It has been hard work, but also fascinating. This challenge opened up a new universe of opportunities, and I enjoy it!

FasterSkier: Are we close to having ski waxes without fluoros which are as good as fluorinated waxes in warm wet conditions?

Davide Mosele: Unfortunately, the chemical and physical characteristics—primarily the hydrophobicity and affinity to the ski base—of fluorocarbon waxes were exceptional, making them the “perfect” material.

This doesn’t mean we can’t have good working ski wax, but for now, it seems quite challenging to achieve the same performance offered by fluorinated ski waxes particularly in these specific conditions.

FasterSkier: What’s harder to develop, a really good kick wax or a really good glide wax?

Davide Mosele: Creating a good kick wax requires extensive experience and knowledge of raw materials. Achieving the best kick with the best speed is not easy; it’s a compromise. Since fluorocarbons are no longer available, developing a good glide wax has also become more challenging. We are exploring a large number of new ingredients/application methods, which consumes a lot of time and energy.

FasterSkier: Wax products seem to come and go and sometimes it seems like change just for change sake. But, it looks like smaller companies stick with proven products longer than larger manufactures. Is that perception accurate?

Davide Mosele: Changes are necessary whenever better solutions are found. Changing the packaging to make customers believe the product is new is not a good strategy. We aim to introduce new products to the market only when we are confident that they are better than their predecessors. Big companies can invest much more in marketing, in our company we believe that the best way to promote our  products is to have satisfied customers,  meaning we must have the “best” product and then the word will spread.

FasterSkier: Are we close to the point where people can throw away their wax irons for glide waxing?  Do you think we’ll see a day soon when ski bases evolve to the point of never needing to be treated with glide wax?

Davide Mosele: We conduct extensive research on application methods. I believe the use of a waxing iron is essential for treating ski bases.  Some liquid products deliver excellent results, and the use of wool rollers is becoming popular even for applying blocks. However, these products are a complement and do not replace the use of a waxing iron at a professional level.

For customers who do not compete, the use of liquid products and wool rollers is an excellent solution. Skis still need to be periodically waxed with an iron. Often, these customers turn to workshops or friends for hot waxing and use liquid products every time they go skiing, enjoying all the benefits of easy application while still achieving very fast skis.

FasterSkier: What’s the favorite product your company makes?

Davide Mosele: We love all our products and believe each one has special qualities that makes it unique. The fast-drying liquid products are very versatile and high-performing. Blocks applied with wool are widely used even in World Cup races and allow for easy layering of different products. The powders are perhaps the ones we cherish the most for sentimental value. In 1985, STAR introduced the first complete line of micronized powders to the market, long before fluorinated waxes. At that time, only blocks were used to wax skis. The easier and faster application with low waste was already a revolutionary idea. Of course during the years, raw materials have  changed a lot … but still the powder aspect is our favorite.

We also have excellent kick waxes in our catalog that, especially in recent years, have won over many ski technicians.  Many of these products were conceived together with a  valuable collaboration in the United States. Ten years ago, we introduced 70mm rotary brushes to the market, which are becoming a standard not only for their size but also for the absolute quality of the materials used.

FasterSkier: You mention the pride of introducing micronized powders. Was that your father’s invention?

Davide Mosele: Yes, STAR was the first company to introduce a complete line of micronized powder products (emphasis added). The idea was to simplify the application process. Until then, ski waxes were based on very soft paraffins, and the waxing irons were not as efficient as they are now. Using harder products made it necessary to simplify the application… the micronized powder form was a good solution to these problems. Nothing is easy, but Roberto’s persistence made it possible for a small lab like his to create that formulation of waxes and additives in powder form.

FasterSkier: What is the hardest part about being in the ski wax business?

Davide Mosele: I love my job, so there is no hardest part. I feel lucky to do what I like!

FasterSkier: What’s the wildest idea your research department ever came up with that never got the go ahead?

Davide Mosele: Over the years, we have developed products that have never reached  the public. Fortunately, as a company, we have decided never to release a product to the market before thoroughly testing it. We have a  trial program where we are supplying  product ideas to “professional people” who help in testing, knowing that some of these products may not turn into a valid ski wax proposal. The important thing is to never get discouraged and to learn from our mistakes.

FasterSkier: Are there any other products, other than wax, which you make which would surprise people?

David Mosele: Maybe people do not know that STAR waxing irons are produced in our factory in Asiago. It is 100 percent our project, and we are proud that it is highly appreciated in the market.

If you check our website, www.starwax.com, you will discover that we also produce a complete line of bike care products! This helps to keep us busy during the summer. We started producing bike care products 30 years ago, and our products are well known throughout Europe.

FasterSkier: Why did STAR get into bicycle maintenance equipment? Is there a lot of similarity between ski wax and bike products?

David Mosele: The idea is that skiers often cycle to train, so the brand remains in use even during the summer. Often, bicycle workshops become ski workshops in the winter. The chemistry used is not the same, but it is very similar.

FasterSkier: You are located in Asiago, Italy, which is also the home of Rode ski wax.
How did it come to be that Asiago is the home to two great wax companies?
Is there a big rivalry between the two companies?

David Mosele: Our relationship with Rode is the same as with all other companies in our industry. There is obviously rivalry, but at the same time, respect. I believe that all of us “small” ski wax producers share the same passion: making skis faster and helping athletes achieve their goals.

One funny thing is that whenever a team comes to Asiago to visit STAR, they end up visiting Rode as well—and vice versa. If you come to Asiago, you will certainly leave with the best ski waxes on the market!

FasterSkier thanks Davide Mosele for taking the time to share his family’s story and give us a glimpse into the life of a family run ski wax company.

The SMST2 Team is proud to announce this year’s Gap Grant program to support elite World Cup skiers in their pursuit of excellence on the international stage.  This initiative provides financial assistance to unfunded (D Team and non-USST) athletes that qualify to race on the FIS World Cup for any period of time.

Gap Grants were made possible by the generous contribution of an anonymous donor and will be available to SMST2 skiers for the 2024-2025 season. The $50,000 gift will be distributed among select World Cup skiers who have demonstrated a commitment to the SMST2 mission – international excellence and local inspiration.

SMST2 Program Director, Maria Stuber says, “We are going to use this money to directly subsidize World Cup racing expenses for unfunded athletes (USST D Team or non-USST athletes) and to cover some staff and travel expenses associated with the SuperTour so that getting to the World Cup is more accessible.  Our hope is that athletes will be able to combine this additional funding with grants from the National Nordic Foundation to have 100% of their World Cup expenses covered in the 2025 World Championship year.  Providing this to our skiers has been a long term goal and rolling it out this year is a dream come true”

The SMST2 Team has several Olympians on its Advisory Board who competed for Team USA and worked to cover the cost of racing and support their families.

1984 Olympian and SMST2 Advisory Board Member, Sue (Long) Wemyss stated, “I couldn’t have pursued my ski goals without outside help from acquaintances and family friends who generously chose to donate towards my ski racing campaign. The costs of racing and preparing to reach the highest levels of competition have only sky-rocketed over the decades! The financial support of our most generous anonymous donor will go a long way to enabling some of the U.S.’s most promising skiers to pursue their potential in cross-country skiing.”

Bob Gray, a US Ski Team athlete from 1962 to 1974, and VT native, reflected on his career saying, “Having spent 12 years on the US Ski Team and struggling to compete at the World level it has been inspiring to see the successes of the SMST2 Team!  This team is now competing at the highest level in the sport and winning.  It brings tears of joy to my eyes!  SMST2 includes young skiers just getting started in the sport and gives them a chance to train with the best in the world.  Now, these inspired athletes will have enough financing to take more international opportunities.  Having the necessary support to devote all of your energy and attention to the task at hand is absolutely necessary.”

Bill Koch, who also sits on the SMST2 Advisory Board, is perhaps the most significant figure in the history of American cross-country skiing, known for both his competitive achievements and contribution to the sport’s evolving technique.  Bill was the first and only American prior to Jessie Diggens to win an Olympic medal (1976) or the Overall World Cup title (1982).  Bill sees this grant help expedite the development process stating, “To get better at World Cup racing, you need to race on the World Cup. SMS T2’s commitment to support its unfunded athletes and help them get this experience will help expedite their development and raise the bar! It has been a thrill to watch the depth of US skiing explode over the last few years, and making European racing accessible to up-and-comers will help continue this trajectory.”

This initiative reflects the SMST2 Team’s commitment to its mission.  SMST2 athletes are training hard and have already started expanding community projects.  Gap Grants will ensure that financial barriers do not hinder athletic progress.  The SMST2 team is committed to supporting skiers on the world stage, with pride in both the US Team and their club and local community.

About the SMST2 Team:

SMS T2 Team is an elite cross-country ski team based out of Stratton Mountain, Vermont. We were founded in 2012 by a board of local people who believe Vermont to be the best training location in the World and to keep our athletes engaged in the local community.  The team’s mission is international excellence and local inspiration.  We value collaboration and foster an environment where athletes and coaches work together within the US Ski Team and College system to create development and opportunity for individual athletes.

Our first World Championship medal race was in 2013 when Jessie Diggins surprised the world, winning gold in a team sprint at the Val di Fiemme Championship.  Since then, the team has brought home 10 additional Olympic and World Championship Medals, achieved 54 Olympic and World Championship top 10 finishes, 94 regular season World Cup podiums and 1,293 World Cup starts by 22 different skiers.

SMST2 Alumni Andy Newell, Simi Hamilton, and Sophie Caldwell are all generationally significant skiers who helped to blaze this trail.  Andy competed on 4 Olympic teams and 9 World Championship teams, landing on the World Cup podium in 2006 as the first American male skier to accomplish this in over 20 years.  Simi Hamilton and Sophie Caldwell both ended their careers at SMST2 with World Cup wins and top 10 finishes at the World Championship or Olympics, Simi 9th in 2019 and Sophie 6th, 10th, 6th and 8th in 2014, 2015, 2017 and 2018 respectively.

In 2018, Jessie Diggins brought home the first Olympic Gold Medal in our sport’s storied history.  She solidified herself as the greatest American cross-country skier of all time with a Silver and Bronze in Beijing in 2022.  Since then, Jessie has been the first American to win an individual World Championship Gold, and she’s won the Overall World Cup crystal globe and Tour de Ski, both twice.

The success of the SMST2 Team doesn’t look like it’s slowing down anytime soon.  Current SMST2 teammates, Julia Kern and Ben Ogden have both been on the World Cup podium in the past 2 years.  Julia earned a bronze in the team sprint at the most recent World Championship in 2023 and was in 7 World Cup semifinals in 2024. Ben Ogden was the top U23 skier in the overall World Cup standings in 2023.  Lauren Jortberg notched her first World Cup top 20 finish last year and Sydney Palmer-Leger found the top 30 two times.  The team racked up 4 individual National Championships and youngsters Ava Thurston and Jack Lang were in the top 10 at the World Junior Championship this year.  Eight SMST2 members were named to the 2024-2025 US Ski Team, 5 of which are under 23 years old in a sport where many athletes peak in their 30’s.

The SMST2 Team has long been a dominant force in the world of cross-country skiing, consistently producing world-class athletes who make history.  Their enduring success is attributed to a passionate board of directors, a supportive community, rigorous training, the best dryland surfaces in the world, a coaching staff committed to collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of excellence by their athletes.  SMST2 athletes are highly engaged in the local community, hosting open workouts, visiting school and youth sporting events, public speaking, and sharing their love of the sport.  The SMST2 Team continues to set the standard in cross-country skiing success and community engagement.