The value of well run localized events was perhaps one of the biggest takeaways from conducting races during the pandemic. NENSA is committed to taking this learning forward and believes highlighting the Popular Race Series will help grow participation numbers and create a more accessible pathway for skier development.
NENSA is placing new emphasis on our Popular Race series this season – our initiative is to highlight these excellent regional opportunities as the core of our racing calendar and make accessible and celebrated race experiences for all levels and ages of skiers. NENSA will offer two tiers of Popular Race calendaring this season, with increased NENSA support and media opportunities at Zak Cup events. The goal is to grow participation numbers and development opportunities for venues and athletes alike, by highlighting the Popular Races Series including broad circulation of a NENSA Popular Race calendar posters at venue and retail locations throughout the region.
Venues still interested in having their event(s) named to NENSA’s Zak Cup, Club Cup, and/or New England Marathon Series should contact NENSA.
The Zak and Club Cup Series brings together NENSA’s New England’s finest citizen races. These events offer regional racing opportunities for developing skiers, and season-long head-to-head competition for senior and masters. There are often Bill Koch age offerings held in conjunction with many of the events. All events that are part of this Zak Cup Series are also scored for Club Cup points. One distance (per age group) on each day is scored for the Zak Cup to ensure appropriate competition within age groups. All timed race distances will be scored to Club Cup scoring.
While Zak Cup events often draw 100+ participants we hope to grow field sizes in the coming years with increased promotion and NENSA staff involvement. New this season, organizers can submit for Zak or Club distinction — with Club races serving a vital role for local communities, those seeking lower key events and clubs that incentivise skier participation based on Club Cup points. On request, NENSA will provide Technical Delegates at these Series events for the same criteria as Eastern Cups. Zak and Club Cup Series Organizers should contact the Eastern TD Coordinator to request a TD for your event. Race sites with strong volunteer bases and event hosting experience are encouraged to bid for a Zak and Club Cup Series events. Click here for more information on NENSA’s Zak Cup and Club Cup Series.
In the last two years the Popular Race Series has grown from approximately 10 events to over 20 events. As we review the schedule for 2021-2022 we hope to create a balanced schedule between Zak and Club events. Races will have varied techniques and distances throughout the season to make for an exciting calendar. Many events are now offering untimed or touring classes – branded with fun names like, “What the Heck” and “Just Try It!” We also look forward to and support the addition of terrain features, which is not so far removed from old school cross country skiing! We are encouraged by the growth of participation prior to the pandemic and can’t wait for winter and highlighting this awesome series.
Zak Cup and Club Cup Series events are selected by NENSA’s Masters Committee.
To Bid:
- Bidding is now open for the 2021-2022 Zak Cup & Club Cup Season. Bids are typically submitted in early summer. Please direct questions to [email protected] and [email protected]
- Full details of expectations are listed in the Bid Sheet and Event Organizer Handbook.
- Organizers are strongly encouraged to use SkiReg for registration.
- Entry fee is up to the host. NENSA will assess a $5 per participant for Zak and $2 for Club (BKL excluded) head-tax which is set up to automatically withdraw via SkiReg.
NEW ENGLAND MARATHON SERIES
The events of the New England Marathon Series offer a classic cross country ski experience with fully supported courses showcasing some of New England’s premier venues. There is something for everyone, welcoming skiers of all levels to test their endurance, or just make the most of a winter’s day on courses ranging from 25K to 50K. Elite racers and recreational touring skiers alike are invited to enjoy a traditional ski marathon experience and some of the finest skiing in New England! Visit our NENSA New England Marathon Series page for more information.
To Bid:
- Bidding is now open for 2021-2022 New England Marathon Series and follows the same format as Zak and Club criteria.
- Each season, 6-8 events will be named to the New England Marathon Series as selected by NENSA’s Masters Committee. Marathons, whether designated Zak or Club will count towards the Marathon Series hats and recognition.
