Beaver Tails Nordic Ski Club

Well it was a pleasant surprise to actually be able to go to a ski centre that we had on our Calendar.  Orford was one of the few centers open and so apart from ourselves every skier east of Kalamazoo appeared to be at the park.  Never mind, it’s a large park and soon skiers get dispersed on the many trails.
 
Although open, Orford was not in prime conditions, but it was certainly very good with plenty of fresh snow and sun.  Anyhow 28 club members gathered at the Accueil Le Cerisier, on a chilly morning (-10 C) and with a little effort we managed to get most of them together to record the event for prosperity, although now we are having to resort to videos to contain the rabble.  Then we were off, one minute a bunch of skiers, the next a puff of blue smoke and they were all gone. It’s as though someone had asked them to buy the beer.
 
Many took the scenic trails on the East of Étang aux Cerises to start.  Groups formed at different speeds depending on their comfort zone, with the more competitive group finishing up at Jouvence at the north end of the park.  Others were pleased to reach La Grande Halte whilst others still were just pleased to be out.  It is on the return to the parking lot when people realize how large and hilly Orford park is, especially if you opt for the trail 11 finish. 
 
Many a club member had weary legs as they returned to the chalet having been out for over 3 hours, definitely one our longest days this season.  So how far did we go?  Well, claims of 27.5 km were being bandied around by the Tom and Ghyslaine after their last loop.  Others made more modest claims.  It is difficult to describe what everybody did however the photos on the web site help give a good impression.
 
Apart from the excellent skiing, the day also produced some quotable gems.
 
“Do you know you are going south, La Grand Halte is north” — a question asked of Glenn and Joanna as they set off down the 9 Trail.
 
“I am a follower, it’s just that I like to follow from the front” – Joanna’s response to where did she want to go.
 
“Loopy” — Ghyslaine’s new nick name after talking Tom into setting out for one last loop.
 
“Has anyone seen Mickey, we have several social engagements tonight!” —  Sharon, driving out of the parking lot.
 
“You breathe like an 80-year-old” — Loopy’s comment about our aging President.   The Pres took it in good part and just sprinted past Loopy to finish first.
 It was great to see so many members making the long drive to Orford and as a result having a great day