NENSA is celebrating our 30th anniversary in 2025. As part of the occasion, we’re gathering reflections from skiers across New England on the people, moments, and values which have defined the NENSA community. This week, we are featuring Craftsbury Outdoor Center coach, 3x Olympian, 2x World Championship silver medalist, and former BKL skier, Susan Dunklee.
Your connections to NENSA and years involved?
Susan Dunklee (SD): I spent many years as a ski racer (starting mid 90’s through 2022); now I’m a ski and biathlon coach.
What does it mean to you to be a cross-country skier from New England?
SD: Whenever the weather got challenging, I’d tell myself that I had a competitive advantage over my competitors. Growing up skiing in New England made me tough and resilient.
Can you share a moment that embodies the spirit of New England skiing?
SD: One of my earliest ski coaches was Bob Townsend who used to organize an after school elementary ski program in the cow fields behind Glover school. Many years later, when I came home from the World Cup or the Olympics, he would always find me and give me a giant lollipop in honor of my racing roots (BKL lollipop races).
Northeast Vermont (NEVT) BKL district hat made my Susan’s mom, Judi Two NEVT BKLers sporting Judi’s NEVT district vest and hat
We want to hear from you! Send in your NENSA 30th reflections using this form HERE.
