On Sunday, March 22, Golden’s Special Olympic Cross Country ski program hosted a Ski-a-Thon to cap off a successful winter season. Under the leadership of head coach Jeff Dolinsky, the program saw one of its strongest seasons yet.
“Golden’s Special Olympic Cross Country ski program had a banner year this season with 9 athletes signed up,” Dolinsky said.
That success was built from the ground up. “We started with some dryland training outdoors, including lots of hiking and drills,” he explained, noting how early preparation helped athletes transition smoothly once winter conditions arrived.
Training throughout the season took place at Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre, where conditions played a key role in the team’s development. “We were very happy with the amazing conditions all season at Dawn Mountain with such a nice facility to enjoy,” Dolinsky said.
As the weeks progressed, the athletes’ commitment became increasingly clear. “The athletes were very focused and attentive, keen to become better, and as the season progressed, we coaches saw consistent progress and improvements,” he said. “They all got fitter, considering the vast differences in skill levels and experience.”
The team also gained valuable experience beyond regular training. “Several athletes raced at Nipika and Lake Louise, and hosted their friends on the Cranbrook Kimberley team at our Huckleberry Loppet,” Dolinsky added. These opportunities helped athletes test their skills and build confidence in a supportive, competitive environment within Special Olympics British Columbia.
Another highlight came when Golden hosted a provincial qualifier event. “Two weeks ago, Golden Nordic hosted a Provincial Qualifier which included 28 athletes from across the province, and our own team results were rock solid, which bodes well for the future,” Dolinsky said. He also noted the impact the event had beyond the competition. “The smiles generated by all those athletes, as they celebrated their achievements and enjoyed being out in the winter woods, were a huge reward for us coaches. And Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre was admired by many of those visitors.”
The season reached its peak with the team’s Ski-a-Thon fundraiser, a day that combined athletic effort with community support.
“The final program day for SO Golden was Sunday, March 22, and that included a Ski-a-Thon fundraiser,” Dolinsky said. “The total kilometres skied by the team was 153 km. This shows how dedicated the team was in helping raise their own funding for the program expenses.”
The effort translated into meaningful support. “Much thanks to the donors and supporters of the program,” he said. “Nearly $5,000 was raised, and will be put to good use, helping athletes become not only better skiers, but confident, well-balanced members of our community, ready to take on other challenges.”
For everyone involved, the event was about more than distance or dollars. It was a celebration of the commitment of this team and the tight-knit community centred around the Nordic Center.
“Athletes, families, and coaches really appreciate the support our community has provided over the years to keep this important program flourishing,” Dolinsky said.
With a strong season behind them and continued community backing, the Golden Nordic Special Olympics program is well-positioned for the future, building not just skilled skiers but confident individuals ready for whatever comes next.
