July 29, 2011 (Silver Star Mountain, BC) – As I am preparing for my annual backcountry camping trip, my mind is flooded with random thoughts. Did I double check the gas stove? Did I pack enough socks? What about the weather? Along with my pre-trip anxiety is also my overwhelming need to reach out to all of our XC campers since stepping into the position of Silver Star Mountain’s new Nordic Manager just over a week ago.

It has been a whirlwind of the meetings, phone and e-mails. Although busy, the amount of positive change and forward thinking directed towards our Nordic product here at the resort has been heart-warming.

On my first day back a photo on the wall by my new office reminded me of the Nordic culture created at Silver Star Mountain Resort starting with the Silver Star Mountain Cross Country Camps 25 years ago.

Since 1986 “the camps”, over the years, have seen a medley of iconic Nordic figures such as Marty Hall, Jack Sasseville, Rob Henderson and Tom Jones along with numerous National and International skiers take lead roles as coaches and instructors.  The camps had their beginning when then National Team coach Marty Hall and Silver Star Mountain General Manager Norm Crerar decided to do “something” for Masters Skiers.  Over the past 25 years thousands of skiers have benefited from exceptional coaching and instructing, Silver Star Mountain’s excellent trail system and our world famous abundant early snow.

I have been fortunate enough over the past 25 years to either be directly involved with the camps as a coach or observe from a close distance while working at the resort. The camps may have an outward appearance of being targeted toward expert and competitive Masters racers but I want to assure you all that our basic philosophy is to assist skiers of all abilities on their individual journey towards meeting their skiing goals.  This underlying philosophy is a cornerstone to our approach when helping a camper in his or her journey to becoming the best they can be.

I invite you to join us in our 25th year of the Silver Star Mountain Cross Country Camps this fall. Our coaching and instructing staff and resort community is looking forward to your return.  “There is nothing like returning to place that remains unchanged to find the ways in find which you yourself have altered…” Nelson Mandela

Please watch for upcoming anniversary specials and incentives. Pass this note on to all your XC ski friends and invite them to join our mailing list HERE and not miss out on our exciting XC Camps this fall!

Cheers,
Guy