Rockford Rollerski Rally Report
by Tom Walsh
September 24, 2001
RAIN, RAIN, and more RAIN: Temp 55F
That sums up the weather conditions of the first annual
Rockford Rollerski Rally on September 23, in Capron IL. Seventeen
rollerskiers watched under the shelter at Lion's Park as rain
poured down outside. After the raffle a group of fifteen determined
rollerskiers set out in a downpour to take on the 32 K of
paddle laden trail. This group of athletes impressed me. They
possess that "Just Do It" attitude that I like. I saw the
same attitude a few years ago when they canceled the Birkie
due to lack of snow. Many skiers went out in spite of the
cancellation and with smiles on their faces took on the challenge
of the day. This Sunday's rollerski event was no different.
It was through shear determination and will that those rollerskiers
just went out and "Did It" even in the down pouring rain.
Athletes are strong people. Yes, they have strong bodies,
but it is the strength of their will and determination that
set them apart from the rest of society (Either that or we
are all crazy). Surprisingly, skating on the wet trail was
not a problem, and the Boone County Conservation Department
minimized leaves by power brushing the trail on Friday.
The rain gave way for Dale Niggemann to run his Endruo Rollerski
Clinic. The group took part in rollerskiing drills to improve
their technique and efficiency. I highly recommend Dale's
clinic to all levels of skiers. Check out his web site for
additional clinic dates this fall @ www.planetxc.com. Watch
the NIN web site for updates of fall/winter activities and
trail conditions @ http://members.aol.com/ninordic/index.html
Special Thank You To:
- Joe Gollinger for all the help planning and contacts.
- Raffle Items:
- V2 gloves - 3 pair of ski gloves
- Native Sport Sunglasses -one pair of sport sunglasses
with extra lens
- G Push cap and shirt
- G Push Sport Drink
- Dale Niggemann
- Bob Richards
- Silent Sport Magazine
- Dale Brines of Capron Manufacturing Company
- Dan Kane Boone County Conservation Department
- Lion's Park Board Capron IL.
- Erica and Kathy Walsh
Hope to see you all at next years Rollerski Rally,
Tom Walsh
Group photo
(Photo: Tom Walsh)
|
Related links
|
