Youth race team
Building strong skiers, teammates, and leaders—one stride at a time.
At Durango Nordic Ski Club, our Race Team is where passion meets performance. Designed for competition-oriented skiers ages 8–18, the program helps athletes reach their full potential through skill development, teamwork, and racing around the region. Whether your skier dreams of Junior Nationals or simply loves the challenge of racing, this program builds strength, technique, and confidence—all while having fun on snow.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Durango Nordic Race Program is open to skiers who want to train and compete at a high level throughout the season.
Season: October through March (snow-dependent)
Races: Junior National Qualifiers (JNQs) across Colorado and Utah
Age Groups: U10, U12, U14, and older competitive divisions
Transportation: Van transportation available for a nominal fee (priority to race team members). Email info@durangonordic.org for details.
Practice officially begins earlier than our registration system allows—please select January 6, 2025, at 4:00 PM when signing up. After registering, you’ll receive detailed information about gear, training, and coach contacts.
DRYLAND TRAINING
Our season starts before the snow flies!
In late October, the team begins dryland training to build endurance, strength, and balance. Athletes roller ski, run, hike, and complete bodyweight workouts to prepare for the winter season. These workouts simulate ski movements, build cardiovascular fitness, and create strong team bonds before the snow even falls.
JUNIOR NATIONAL QUALIFIERS (JNQS)
DNSC athletes compete in Rocky Mountain Nordic (RMN) Junior National Qualifier races across the state, with opportunities to earn points toward Junior Nationals. Races include both skate and classic techniques and vary in format from sprints to distance events.
2025–2026 Race Schedule
JNQ #1 – Snow Mountain Ranch
Location: Granby, CO
Dates: December 20–21, 2025
JNQ #2 – Super Q at Soldier Hollow
Location: Midway, UT
Dates: January 23–24, 2026
JNQ #3 – Maloit Park
Location: Minturn, CO
Dates: February 7–8, 2026
JNQ #4 – Aspen Valley Ski Club
Location: Aspen, CO
Dates: February 21–22, 2026
Mike Elliott Youth Festival – Hosted by Durango Nordic
Location: Durango, CO
Dates: February 28–March 1, 2026
Junior Nationals
Location: Cable, Wisconsin
Dates: March 9–14, 2026
Eastern U16 Championships
Location: Hanover, NH
Dates: March 13–16, 2026
Race Team
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For the Competitive Skier
Train and compete with athletes across the region! Travel to Rocky Mountain Nordic Junior National Qualifiers.
Key Info:- Includes pre-season dryland training
- Recommended ages are 9-18 -
4-5 days per week; races take place on weekends
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$1,000-$1,475
Meet Your Coaches
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Abe Ott
Head Coach
headcoach@durangonordic.org