Who is a Master?
For MNC it is any adult skier that has a passion for skiing and the outdoors and enjoys the camaraderie and social benefits of skiing with friends! For NENSA it is a formal racing age definition that starts at age 25 and above. Typically every season we have around 100 registered Masters spanning the a broad set of ages, experience and racings interests.
Skiing Experience
Racing Interest & Fitness
Training Sessions
When are training sessions?
Masters weekday training sessions take place Tuesdays and Thursday from the first week of December through Mid-March. Sessions begin at 3:45PM and 6:00PM session. Registered participants can choose either time and switch at any time.
We ask that all Masters have skis on and be on snow and meet at their colored group flag by the planned session start times. Being on snow on time helps our Masters Coaches keep sessions organized, avoids having fellow skiers standing in the cold and maximizes ski time. For classic technique evening it is recommended to arrive a little early in order optimize your kick wax selection.
Where do I go?
Training sessions take place at Camp Ethan Allen Biathlon Training Facility operated and owned by The Vermont Army National Guard, 113 Ethan Allen Rd, Jericho, VT 05465. Directions to the range
Pass through the gate then turn right on Essayons Road (just past “Red House” on your left) and after about a mile up the hill you will come to the range. NOTE: In the Google Maps Essayons Road is labeled as West Hill Road.
The skier’s parking lot is the large lot on the left, just as you crest the steep hill and before you get to the Groomer’s Garage. Access to the trails and Walker building can be obtained through the tunnels that go beneath the ski trails. Please do not park on the side of the road near the smaller lot at the top of the hill. Typically we have access to the Walker Building for bathrooms and changing prior to and after practice.
Are their rules regarding range use?
Use of the Range is made available through the Civilian Use Agreement and is only for registered members of licensed clubs/organizations and the Guard is now checking ID at the Range entrance. Bring your Driver’s License and be sure to drive the posted speed limit in the Range (25mph). They check! Also, please limit your access to the groomed trail networks.
How do I find my coaching group?
Athletes will be emailed their coaching groups prior to the first session. Initial groups are set based on registration surveys and we will be adjusted as we get to know skiers in the early sessions. As the season progresses, athletes are free to step up groups but we ask that athletes not drop down groups as this often creates coaching imbalances, shifts group focus and negatively impacts other skiers. We prefer the athletes speak to their coaches and discuss other training alternatives within their assigned group.
Equipment & Waxing
What equipment do I need?
Masters skiers should have both wax-able skate and classic gear. Selecting the proper gear is dependent on skier size, ability and budget. There are many options for purchasing equipment, including local ski swaps and stores such as Ski Rack where MNC meters receive a club discount. Typically knowledgeable sales people are on hand at these locations to guide you through the selection process.
What do I need to know about waxing?
Waxing an important element of the sport and can range from basic glide and kick wax options to very sophisticated options for racers. MNC coaches hold ski wax clinics early in the season to help teach new members the basics of ski wax and equipment. For those new to skiing our website contains a Very Basic Guide to get you started.
Finally, don’t forget that MNC Members also receive significant club discounts on Toko and Start wax products.
Do I have to Race?
No, but Masters racing can be a fun experience, and while not required it is something our coaches encourage skiers all levels to try. Recently there has been a push by NENSA to encourage more Masters racing by creating more new racer friendly events. MNC Coaches generally work race preparation into the weekly training sessions to help skiers build fitness and confidence.
Club Communication
Where do I find training information?
The MNC website (www.mansfieldnoric.org) contains a wealth of information on training schedules, club apparel, range snow conditions etc.. Also, every MNC member will receive a weekly eBlast that contains links to the Masters Training Doc. This document is updated by Monday evening and contains for each training group the coach, technique (skate or classic), and the planned activity for the evening.
Due to often rapidly changing snow conditions, please plan to review the Snow Report and Masters Training Doc around 3PM to confirm the plan for the day. If you are unsure or if conditions are likely to change, consider bringing both skate and classic equipment. Additionally, early in the season please be prepared for dry land training (ie sneakers & bounding poles) or alternate locations (the Notch, Sleepy,…)
