Although preparation for spring/summer activities is underway, don’t let the spring like temperatures out there fool you into believing winter is over.
Not so, as there’s still plenty of local winter time fun to be had. I’m told even though there’s been little new snow the ski conditions are still great.
•The Nelson Nordic Ski Club is hosting its annual Teck Kootenay Cup on Sunday, February 2. There will be race categories for all ages from U5 to Masters. The race is freestyle technique so you can skate or classic but most will be skating. There will even be an easy course for the recreational skiers that is 7.5 km. Everyone is invited to participate, have some great food, perhaps win a draw prize but most of all enjoy the fun. If anyone would like to volunteer at the race, please contact Louise Poole at klpoole@shaw.ca or call the ski club and leave a message.
To register for the race go to zone4.ca/onlinereg.asp?id=6343. Bib pick up is at 10 a.m. Bunnies and Atoms (7 and under) start at 10:30 a.m. All other ages start at 11 a.m.
• With a slate of 14 competitors, the Nelson Figure Skating Club tested its mettle against other regional clubs at the West Kootenay Invitational Competition January 17 to 19 in Rossland. The second major competition of the season, the meet gave skaters another opportunity to have their performances rated by a team of judges as well as an opportunity to pass High Test and Elements evaluations. Club members are building towards hitting their peaks for the STARSkate Super Senior Series Final in Kelowna this March where provincial champions at all levels will be crowned.
For skaters competing at STAR 4 and over, their marks will also count towards qualifying for the Provincial Development Camp later this year. The next major event for club members is the West Kootenay Regional Championship February 1 to 3 in Beaver Valley.
• Talking of spring sport preparation, Nelson Youth Soccer is in full swing of registration for the season starting April 22.
Registration for REP Soccer is today (Friday, January 31). A commitment to the Rep program (11 to 18-years-old in 2014) includes Rep practices twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays, and travelling several weekends to tournaments across BC and the north-west USA. For U11 and U12 REP players it is also mandatory to play in House league.
Therefore, attendance at House games and practices is required. For U13 to U18 REP players, House league is optional. Cost: Rep tryout registration $30 plus tournament costs and House registration fee when applicable.
NYSA House registration is also open with a fee of $155. Deadline for early bird fee of $125 is March 1. Every House player will receive a full uniform kit (jersey, shorts and socks). Shinpads and outdoor soccer shoes are responsibility of the player. Volunteer coaches are needed. Join the fun and lead our youth to a better understanding of the game of soccer. Professional coaching support is available.
• Last but not least, Nelson KidSport is able to raise their annual grant amounts once again. Thanks to the past year of generous local donations, provincial government grant, and the Hyundai Hockey program, the local chapter can increase the annual amount from $250 per year, per child to $275. This allows a child to use that entire amount on one sport or divide it up accordingly over the year.
For information, criteria or application forms please go to nelsonsports.ca. The annual appreciation reception night for supporters and donors is happening on February 1 at the Nelson Leafs game against Fernie. Give them a round of applause for supporting our local kids.
