October 30, 2012 (Bend, OR) – Bend Endurance Academy will offer a new development program for cross country skiing in Central Oregon this winter. The Mini Nordies program is designed for participants ages 3-6 and includes easy introductory ski skills and fun games with small class sizes. Parents can enjoy the ski trails while their children are in class. Activities are conducted at the Virginia Meissner Sno-park.

A Nordic program meeting, for both new and returning participants, will be held at the Bend Endurance Academy Conference room located at 500 SW Bond Street on Thursday, November 1st at 6:30pm. Program details and online enrollment is available here.

Mini Nordies Program for 2012-2013 includes:

The Grouse
Ages 3-6 Classic
Saturdays
Session 1: December 8, 15, 29 and January 5
Session 2: February 2, 9, 16 and 23
This class teaches basic skiing movements and exposes kids to winter play on skis.
Participants must provide their own skis, poles, boots. No experience necessary.
11am to 12pm at Meissner Nordic Community Ski Trails

The Ravens
Ages 3-6 Skate
Saturdays
Session 1: December 8, 15, 29 and January 5
Session 2: February 2, 9, 16 and 23
This is a skate class for young skiers who have some prior experience with classic technique. Participation in the Grouse program is suggested for kids who have no prior experience on cross country skis.
Participants must provide their own skis, poles, boots.
1pm to 2pm at Meissner Nordic Community Ski Trails

The Eagles
Ages 3-6 Skate and Classic
Sundays
Session 1: December 9, 16, 30 and January 6
Session 2: February 3, 10, 17, and 24
This is for experienced beginners. Perfect for students who participated in the class last year or who have participated in previous formal ski instruction. Participants must provide their own skis, poles and boots.
1pm to 2pm at Meissner Nordic Community Ski Trails

The Bend Endurance Academy “promotes healthy living through active, outdoor experiences. We emphasize teamwork, personal growth and community responsibility.” The Academy is a 501 c 3 nonprofit organization providing Nordic skiing, Cycling, and Rock Climbing development programs in the Deschutes National Forest under a Special Use Permit from the US Forest Service.