Welcome to the Redberry Ramblers Nordic Ski Club - Jackrabbits Ski Lessons! We are so excited to be launching and hosting ski lessons this season for skiers of all ages and abilities! Lessons and community ski lessons will be held either at Aspen Hills Farm Ski Trails OR in Blaine Lake. At the moment, the locations are set, but we will post on the BLCA Facebook page and send an email if there are any changes to location. Below is information about the levels for your skier. Please note, that the ski coaches may choose to shuffle skiers around to ensure they are in a group that is similar to their skills and abilities. The goal of any Jackrabbits program is to have FUN and get outside and move on skis!

Program Overview

The Redberry Ramblers Jackrabbit Ski Program is a fun, skills-based introduction to cross-country skiing for youth ages 3–13 (but we can be flexible on this, we welcome youth of all ages to participate).

Our focus is on:

• Learning fundamental ski skills

• Building confidence and coordination

• Having fun and enjoying the outdoors

All sessions emphasize fun, friendship, and skill development through games and outdoor exploration.

Registration & Membership

All participants must have:

1. Redberry Ramblers Nordic Ski Club Membership (for insurance through Nordiq Canada and Cross Country Saskatchewan)

2. Jackrabbit Program Registration

Parental Involvement

Parents of Bunnyrabbit and Jackrabbit 1 skiers are encouraged to assist during lessons. We also welcome parents to get involved in club activities — coaching, volunteering, social media, or helping maintain trails. There are no additional fundraising obligations (no bake sales, casinos, or bottle drives). Families are encouraged to ski together outside of lessons for additional practice and fun!

Skill Levels & Lesson Focus

Bunnyrabbits (Ages ~3–5)

• For beginner skiers new to snow and ski movement

• Requires parent chaperone

• Focus: balance, movement, and fun through games

• Skills: putting on skis, ready position, rising/falling, side-stepping, free glide

• No poles used

• Typical distance: short play-based circuits

Jackrabbit Level 1 (Ages ~6–7 or older beginners)

• Minimal assistance needed putting on skis

• Parent chaperone encouraged

• Focus: gaining independence and basic technique

• Skills: falling/rising, side-stepping, star turn, diagonal stride with poles, herringbone, snowplow braking, free glide

• Typical distance: ~1 km

Jackrabbit Level 2

• Not for beginners — skier can fall/rise independently on flat terrain

• Skills: snowplow stop, herringbone, diagonal stride, double poling

• Typical distance: 1–2 km

Jackrabbit Level 3

• Intermediate level — skier can fall/rise on gentle slopes, use poles effectively

• Skills: snowplow stop and S-turns, one-step double pole

• Typical distance: 2–3 km

Jackrabbit Level 4

• Advanced classic skier with good downhill control

• Skills: turns and stops on moderate hills, introduction to skate skiing (free skate and marathon skate)

• Typical distance: 3–4 km

Track Attack

• For strong, confident skiers ready for challenge and endurance

• Skills: advanced hill climbing/descending, obstacle navigation, and continued skate ski development

• Typical distance: 4–6 km

Additional Notes

• Groups are organized by skill level, not strictly by age.

• Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Program runs in most weather conditions—updates will be provided for extreme cold.

Registration Checklist

□ Club Membership purchased on Zone4.ca

□ Jackrabbit Program registration completed

□ Proper winter clothing and gloves

□ Ski equipment (or arranged rental)

□ Parent volunteer signup (optional)

□ Contact info confirmed with program coordinator