August 17, 2005 – Forty eight athletes from nine different clubs across Ontario traveled to Thunder Bay to participate in the 5 day Ontario Development Dryland Camp hosted by Lakehead XC.

Athletes aged 13 to 21 braved the sunny, hot and humid July weather of Northwestern Ontario to develop their endurance, speed, strength, and ski walking and roller ski technical skills.

Although the majority of the training was completed in and around the Kamview Ski Area, participants had the opportunity to sneak a peek at the Lappe trails, host of the 2006 Canadian Ski Nationals. Training was also held on the Lakehead University Campus and the Sleeping Giant, of the Ontario Parks system.

The NST strength test was conducted along with a multiple roller ski time trial session that had athletes compare their personal times completing a 1km or 2km course using legs only, arms only and regular skate technique. Results can be seen at: http://www.bigthundernordic.com/

The camp finished off with a 3-4 hour run/hike up the Sleeping Giant, a cool dip in Lake Marie Louise and then a mean beach volleyball tournament. Ontario Nordic skiers are known for their great beach volleyball skills and are willing to take any province on in a high stakes game.

Other events throughout the week included a good mix of fun and serious training such as: ski walking technique session, talk by Eric Bailey – NTDC coach on being a successful ski racer, skate rollerski technique session, poker run, Kamview 5km Trail Run race, Lakehead University scavenger hunt, strength circuit and core strength, dynamic and PNF stretching sessions.

This camp was the 2nd annual Ontario Development camp hosted by the partnership of Lakehead University Nordic Ski Team and the Big Thunder Nordic Ski Club known as Lakehead XC. Participation doubled from last years 22 participants.

Many thanks go out to the time and efforts of the assisting coaches: NTDC coach, Eric Bailey; Patti Kitler of Laurentian Nordic; and Mac Davies of Big Thunder Nordic Ski Club. Also to be thanked are the efforts and hospitality of the countless billets, drivers and food preparation volunteers who make this camp so special.

Thunder Bay is known for the awesome volunteer support of Nordic skiing events and is ready to host the rest of Canada at the 2006 National Championships this March. See you there!