Denali Junior Nordic coaches combine moose awareness with fun games

by Katie Writer

The Junior Nordic Ski Program has 33 skiers this year as well as a new assistant coach, Tucker Chenoweth. At the beginning of Wednesday’s practice, the coaches discussed with the young skiers what to do when they see moose on the trail. At this time of year, there are more moose on trails with a deeper snowpack. Head coach, Aubrey Smith offered common sense tips, including turning around and going the other way, especially if they see a cow and calf on or nearby the trail. Tucker suggested to get behind a tree for protection. Fortunately, at this Wednesday’s practice, there were only visible moose tracks and no moose encounters. As a Talkeetna Elementary School teacher, Coach Aubrey knows how to combine fun memory games and ski conditioning into practice.

Upcoming activities include a long tour ski, orienteering course, ski bingo, an egg hunt and a poker ski. Organized ski activities are not only for kids, but also for adults seeking social winter fun on snow. This year, the Denali Nordic Ski Club is really encouraging beginner skier development by offering ski lessons and clinics for new skiers. For more information, check out: www.denalinordicskiclub.org.