Sasha’s early season update

Time flies even faster when you spend your non-waking hours chasing Phil down the hill.

Since December 14^th I’ve spent more time on the hills than in the office. Two trips to Ste Anne later, one successful Christmas camp, I have to say I’m worried the season is going to fly by (oh wait doesn’t that happen every year?)

When I was growing up all I ever wanted to do was to go on a pre-christmas camp, whether it be to Europe, BC, or Quebec. This year I got to live my childhood dream and headed off to Mt. Ste Anne with Alpine Ski Club. With over 40 athletes at the camp we had a typical Eastern Townships early season ski week; we saw rain, then a flash freeze, followed by a little snow and then the typical bitter coldness of Ste Anne.

A New Year, a New Role

Shortly after that Christmas Camp started at Alpine Ski Club. This year I’ve taken on a new role. Where previously I preferred to coach and instruct the older children, I’m now in charge of the Nancy Greene Racing program; the racers between the ages of 7 and 10. I’m following the Canadian Ski Coaching Federation’s mandate and promoting my kids to learn basic ski skills, to spend less time in gates and to spend more time free skiing. Even though it’s early in the season I think I can say with some certainty that already there is a positive change in the athletes skiing.

Recognize when you need to make a change

But my season hasn’t been all ‘ups.’ This season has started off slowly with respect to my own progress. With all new equipment I’ve been struggling to be comfortable on snow. Phil has been extremely patient with me, listening to my whining, whinging and flat-out complaining. Alas I have found equipment that works and I have rediscovered my love for the sport. From learning the lesson the hard way, I have to say that if your equipment doesn’t feel like it is working than do something about it, change it and trust me you will be happier.

Looking forward I am excited for the trips to Ste Anne, to continue working every weekend with my Athletes and Coaches, and to spending as much time as I can skiing with my favourite person.