Skip to content

It's almost Rabbit season in Golden

The Golden Rabbits Program, the youth cross-country skiing program, is gearing up for a new season in the snow.

The Golden Rabbits Program, the youth cross-country skiing program co-ordinated by the Golden Nordic Club, is gearing up for a new season in the snow.

The Rabbits participate in Cross Country Canada's Skill Development Program, in which children ages five to 14 years old are taught the proper techniques used in cross country skiing by trained volunteer coaches in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

This year the group will include Bunnies (five to six year old beginners), Jackrabbits (six to nine year olds) and Track Attack (ages 10 and up). The season runs from Jan. 2, 2013, to Mar. 13, every Thursday after school from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Dawn Mountain.

"We look forward to another fun year full of games, skill development, fun races, hot chocolate and cookies," said Joan Dolinsky, youth programs co-ordinator for the Nordic Club.

The program is going through some changes this year, and the club is hoping that some new volunteers will step forward to help out.

"Our Rabbit Program is really in transition this year, and we are looking for parents of young families to infuse some energy, ideas, and leadership in the Rabbit program. We need both coaches and a co-ordinator, and we can provide free training," said Dolinsky.

"You don't have to be a top-level skier—just enjoy working with children and have basic skills and of course that rarest of things — time. The coach training will help you develop both your leadership and skiing skills, and look sgreat on your resume."

Costs for the Golden Rabbits start at $50 per child, per season. There are also some club skis available for rent for the season at $30 a pair. Registration forms for the program are on the Golden Nordic Club website at www.goldennordicclub.ca.