Another season has come to an end. I congratulate all those who managed to achieve a new level of certification in either cross country or telemark skiing this season. I often make mention of those achieving the highest levels of certification because I know how much time and effort goes into a Level IV pin. But I also know how hard it is to achieve that first level of certification. I want to thank all those folks who went for their Level I and tell you how proud I am of you.
Building the confidence to teach skiing is something not easily done. Trust and comfort with your course conductors is a key to success. I often think of June Hawkins, Scott Lemon, Mark Simpson and John Gallagher for their roles in helping me get to my Level IV in cross country. In telemark, I think of Karen Reader, Denis Vézina and Guy Paulsen for creating the trust and comfort I needed to develop into the telemark instructor I am now. These course conductors all started out as Level I candidates hoping they could ski and teach well enough to achieve the standard required to get that first pin. You have to start somewhere, and I am extremely proud of the job CANSI does in training course conductors. I hope you never forget the mentors you’ve had.
This summer promises to be busy at CANSI. I know the technical committee will be working to upgrade our Teaching and Technical Guides (available to members at cansi.ca). Our video library will also see some upgrades, and planning is already underway for early-season development camps and refreshers. September 1 is a key date as this is when memberships can be renewed and courses will be posted. I encourage you to think about your goals for next winter and sign up early. I know I’ll be looking to work on achieving my telemark Level IV next winter. What will you work toward?
Finally, as I have mentioned before, now is the time to consider ordering a CANSI jacket for either cross country or telemark. Please let Marie, our This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., know if you are interested before the April 30 deadline. (Find more details on uniforms below.) Now is also a good time to check out what is available in terms of pro deals for CANSI members. There are many options to choose from, and availability is good at this time of year.
Have a great summer, once you summer wax your skis and clean your boots. Remembering in November what you should have done in April or May is the worst feeling...
Now, where's my paddle?
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