It is with great pleasure to provide an update on our ongoing NENSA Club Challenge:
It’s been just over a year since the skiing world was shut down for the foreseeable future by the Covid pandemic — fortunately this season was a great success because of the nature of cross country skiing, our communities adherence to guidelines and the creativity of event organizers. Last season the New England Club Championships were not able to be held. A relay by nature brings people together — and there is no more fitting way to celebrate the end of this season — and hopefully the beginning of a new normal by bringing this event back, albeit in a virtual arena. Important and exciting details are that our skiers here in New England have circumnavigated the planet more than twice already, and we currently have 118 clubs on the Leaderboard.
As many clubs know there is money on the line — provided by the generosity of Kathy and Marty Hall (as well as prizes from Swix). While larger clubs have a distinct advantage at the top of this contest, A Hall Mark of Excellence allowed NENSA to create a new format for Club scoring this season. The system brings together competitions across the spectrum of our racing programs — allowing clubs with junior athletes, colleges and those with robust masters programs to stack up against each other. The intention of the competition is to reward participation as well as excellence.
Craftsbury Nordic, now commands the leaderboard, with a lead of only 150 pts. We will see what happens when Mansfield Nordic provides the final virtual opportunity for clubs across New England (and beyond) to compete regardless of their location. Registration is now open. There is even a discounted registration fee for interstate teams. We hope we will have robust participation in this event — create your dream team and dream route and get out on the snow before it’s gone!
