XCCM Shop Opening will be on Aug 28th, 2026
Hello guest. Welcome to XCCM!
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XCCM’s next 7 days:
- Wednesday, August 26, 2026
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AGM
Wednesday, August 26, 2026--6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
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Vision & Mission
Our vision
We are a performance cross-country ski club for masters’ athletes, fostering community, learning and love for our sport.
Our mission
To empower adult cross-country skiers to achieve their personal best through expert coaching and to foster community through a rich, supportive social experience.
Our history
XC Chelsea Masters was incorporated in 1998 by a group of passionate Ottawa and Chelsea based skiers who believed adults deserved the same high-quality coaching, structured training, and sense of community traditionally available to younger athletes. Our founder and longtime President, Natalya Kuziak, established the club to create a welcoming environment where masters skiers could compete locally, nationally and internationally while improving their technique and building fitness. Our original focus was skiing to compete and race.
XCCM has since grown into one of Canada’s leading masters cross-country ski clubs, and our focus has changed.
What began with a small group of enthusiastic ski racers has now evolved into a year-round community offering a variety of dryland and on-snow coaching, training camps, clinics, social events, and opportunities for skiers of all abilities to challenge themselves and enjoy an active lifestyle. The focus has broadened from racing to embracing a performance mindset.
Our coaches are at the heart of the XCCM experience. They bring a passion for cross-country skiing and a commitment to helping every member improve their technique, build fitness, and achieve their personal goals. Whether you’re a relatively new member or training for a competition, our coaches create a supportive and encouraging environment where learning, being challenged, and enjoyment go hand in hand.
Jamie Kallio – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI, SKI COACH, & ATHLETIC COORDINATOR
Jamie grew up in the Northern Ontario city of Timmins where he developed an appreciation for outdoor winter sports at an early age. Skiing, skating, snowshoeing during the winter and biking, running and eventually roller skiing began at an early age and were routine by age 14. Racing at the provincial and national level for the Porcupine Ski Runner club in Timmins became a year-round commitment for seven years. After that, the sport of Biathlon with the National Training Squad became the focus for 3 years in the mid-1980s. This led to a berth on the 1987 World Championship Team and eventually a spot on the Canadian team for the 1988 Calgary Olympics. Since then Jamie has been giving lessons in skiing and coaching from the club to the international level in biathlon and cross-country skiing. He also has an NCCP Level 3 Certification in both Cross-country skiing and Biathlon. Currently, racing is less of a priority; with the goal now of getting a permanent bib at the CSM.
Dan Mallett – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI, AND SKI COACH
Dan is a Chelsea resident, who has been involved in cross-country skiing for over 30 years as an athlete, coach and sports administrator. In the 70s he grew up in the Muskoka Lakes region of Ontario and competed for the Southern Ontario Team, where he was a member of the relay team which won gold at the nationals. In the 80s he raced internationally in Cross Country Skiing and represented Canada in Biathlon at 3 world championships and several world cups. Since then he has coached 100s of athletes in the national capital region where some have attained Olympic and Paralympic results. In addition, he has either lead or participated on teams as a coach at national championships, the Canada Winter Games and World Cups. As a volunteer sports administrator, he has contributed in several roles in club, provincial and national sports organizations. Employed as a project manager and engineer he has combined his skills with his passion to work at both the Vancouver Winter and London Summer Olympic games. Currently Dan can be found skiing in Gatineau Park and providing instruction to all levels of skiers.
Peter Lloyd – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI AND SKI COACH
Peter has been cross country ski racing for over 30 years. He has a BSc degree in Bio-Physical Education (Kinesiology) from Concordia University, has completed his Level 3 NCCP and is working on his Level 4 coaching certification. Peter coached with XCCM since 2011 and has previously with Nakkertok where he helped lead the Nakkertok juniors to a Team victory at the National Championships. Many of the athletes that Peter has worked with are now racing on the Junior National team or with National Training Centres. In 2005, he coached the Outaouais Divisional team at the Jeux Du Quebec. He enjoys seeing the athletes having fun, and continuing to improve in all aspects of their performance. Peter has also competed and coached Triathlon racing and holds a Level 1 Technical certification in that sport. In addition to coaching, Peter is also a member of the Board of Directors of Cross Country Canada.
Karen Nesbitt – SKI COACH
Karen is passionate about the outdoors and enjoys sharing her passion with others to help improve their experience, and create opportunities to explore new endeavours. She’s been living in Chelsea near the Gatineau Park for over 40 years and takes advantage of the beauty, and variety of the trails in every season. Karen grew up skiing in the Laurentians from a very early age, and has been involved with teaching and coaching both downhill and cross country skiing for over 25 years. She is a CANSI Certified instructor, and NCCP coach and has taught privately as well as with Chelsea Nordique, Mooney’s Bay, Nakkertok, new immigrants to Canada, and various Ski for Schools programs in the Ottawa/Gatineau area.
Etienne Grall – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI AND SKI COACH
Etienne grew up in France where he was introduced early on to the outdoors and the mountains with his family. He came to cross-country skiing in his late 20s, while living near the Alps, as a parallel activity to climbing, mountaineering and alpine ski touring. In Ottawa since 1999, his passion for – and involvement in – XC skiing got a boost when he and his wife Carolyn joined the Nakkertok ski club. Etienne followed their children up the coaching ranks, first as a Jackrabbit leader, later with the racing program. For the last several years he was a coach with Nakkertok’s Junior program and supported the team’s successes as coach and wax tech at several National Championships and many Ontario cups. He is a certified coach at the Train to Train level and is thrilled to see many of the athletes he coached remain active and engaged, and some of them excel on the national scene and beyond. Still missing the mountains, he sees winter in Ottawa as his “horizontal mountaineering”, which has earned him the nickname of “winter optimist” from some co-workers. Etienne is an International Relations graduate, speaks four languages and when he is not out in Gatineau Park works in International Development Finance.
Michael Lalonde – SKI COACH
Michael grew up in Ottawa and learned to cross-country ski at Gloucester H.S. He joined the racing team and the outers club, which back country skied, orienteered and went on canoe trips. Paddling on Lake Superior was one of his most memorable trips. Later on he was a member of the University of Ottawa ski team and the Chelsea Nordiq Ski Club. Mike has a bachelor’s degree in physical education. He attained his CANSI Level III instructor and Level II examiner certifications. In addition, he is fully certified as a Level II NCCP XC ski coach. Mike worked as a Recreation Programmer with the City of Ottawa for 31 years managing recreation, sports and fitness programs. He has twenty years’ experience teaching physical education to children, youth and adults and utilizes a learner centred approach to best support his athletes. From 2003-2006 he took on volunteer positions with CANSI Ontario as Communications and Technical Director. Mike coached the Chelsea Nordiq junior ski team between 2004-2006 and was the Coaching Development Coordinator from 2007-2009. In the off season he cycles, runs and trains in sprint kayaking and canoeing
Tom Kempt – SKI COACH
Coach Tom dabbled in Nordic skiing until daughters Laryssa and Roxanna became members of first the Skinouk and then Nakkertok Nordic ski clubs. It was the girls’ skiing years spanning over a decade and a half that added the Coach to Tom. Skilled in diagnostics, certified through the NCCP (National Coaching Certification Program up to and including Train to Train), CANSI level I (Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors), Tom is happy to assist skiers increase their capacity in technique, endurance and waxing. Tom is retired from being an elementary special education teacher for thirty-nine years. As side hustles he now tutors high school Math, plays drums and sings backup for a handful of bands, completes a modest number of triathlons annually, and participates in a few Nordic race events each winter. Tom, wife Donia and standard poodle Freddie call Carleton Place home.
Peter Ostrom – SKI COACH
Peter reluctantly started cross-country skiing at age 6 at the Viking Ski Club, as he preferred downhill at that time. With the passing of time, his love for Nordic persevered. He skied competitively for Queen’s University. A level II Cansi Instructor and Level II Coach, Peter has coached high school and instructed adults with the Ottawa Learn to Cross Country program and at Nakkertok Ski Cub. He convened the Ottawa Carleton District School Board cross-country racing program for several years. A lover of Loppets, he has ski toured/Nordic skied in Norway, Finland, Switzerland, Kenya, and India. He acquired his permanent Gold bib with the Canadian Ski Marathon in 1984 and continues to ski it “never again”. He was the XCCM Athletic Director for many years.
Even Kealey – SKI COACH
Evan grew up skiing, riding, and running all over the Outaouais region. He gained performance ski experience through participating in the Nakkertok racing program, then competed for the University of Ottawa through his post-secondary years while earning a degree in Economics. Now, when he isn’t out skiing or riding his bike, Evan spends his time talking about doing those things while working at a local shop. And is more than willing to chat while out on the skis too!
Hanna Smith – SKI COACH
Hanna grew up in Ottawa, Ontario and was lucky enough to have parents who introduced her to skiing at a very young age. While she may not have fully enjoyed it right away, the community and ability to continue being active through the winter kept her participating in the sport for many years. Hanna skied for Nakkertok Nordic with their racing team until 2016. Then she went on to pursue her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at Queen’s University, where she skied with and helped coach the student-led Nordic team over the course of four years. She continues to enjoy skiing recreationally with friends and family.
Interested in private ski lessons? Click here
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XCCM is led by a volunteer Board of Directors who guide the club’s direction, oversee operations, ensure financial sustainability and help maintain a member-focused approach. If you are interested in joining our board, please send us an email.
The Board of Directors consists of three offices: President, Secretary, and Treasurer, and five Directors who fill various roles as required.
Peter Mallory – President
Description of office, as defined by the By-Laws: The President shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and of the members. The President shall oversee all operations of the Club.
Bio: Peter has been skiing since he could walk, growing up in Peterborough, Ontario where he enjoyed skiing the Kawartha Nordic ski trails and back country skiing. Peter raced for the Kawartha Nordic Ski team, the Southern Ontario Ski team and for the Carleton U Varsity team. He was also the assistant coach of the Carleton University Varsity Nordic Ski team in ‘85 & ‘86. He is passionate about all things skiing including Nordic, downhill, alpine touring & roller skiing. Peter has really enjoyed the Silver Star ski camp each year and has got back into skate skiing thanks to the excellent instruction from our XCCM coaches. He is looking forward to helping out on the board of directors and giving back a little to this wonderful club while continuing to develop new friendships.
Philippa Gross – Secretary
Description of office, as defined by the By-Laws: The Secretary shall enter or cause to be entered in the Club's minute book, minutes of all proceedings at meetings of the executive, Board meetings and committees of the Board. The Secretary shall give, or cause to be given, as and when instructed, notices to members, Directors, the public accountant and members of committees. The Secretary shall be the custodian of all books, papers, records, documents and other instruments belonging to the Club. The Secretary, along with the President and Treasurer, shall help enforce the Club bylaws and ensure that the Club operates according to the laws and regulations of the Act.
Bio: Way back in Montreal, Philippa 'xc-skied' as a teenager/young adult. Basically she ski walked in the woods with a group of friends with wine skins. After a thirty five year hiatus she restarted and got absolutely hooked. With help/instruction/laughter from friends and then about six years ago, XCCM coaches and more friends, she’s progressed from cheap fishscale to heavy touring skis to racing skis and started skate skiing a few years ago. Parts of the CSM done, a number of Gatineau Loppets done, teaching at Mooney’s Bay now and who knows what comes next. Still so much to learn, but she’s loving every aspect of it. From 'OMG, winter is interminable' to 'OMG, winter is way too short. We need more snow.'
Morag Cowell – Treasurer
Description of office, as defined by the By-Laws: The Treasurer shall be responsible for all financial matters pertaining to the Club. These include but are not limited to, accounting, reporting of financial information to the Board and Member’s annually or upon request, and the filing of tax returns or other financial information to government authorities.
Bio: Morag learnt to cross country ski at the age of 11 at the Black Jack Ski Club in her hometown of Rossland, BC. After moving east and taking a few years' hiatus from skiing, she got back into the sport in a big way after discovering Gatineau Park. She loves nothing more than getting into the far reaches of park on her skis, away from the crowds. Morag joined XCCM in 2014 with the goal of improving her fitness level (and therefore decreasing her level of suffering) during the Canadian Ski Marathon, her favourite event. She appreciates that XCCM members are serious about their skiing, but equally serious about their socializing. Aside from skiing Morag enjoys many other outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, sea kayaking and the odd foray into downhill skiing and climbing.
François Dubrous – Athletics Director
Role: The Athletics Director is responsible for assisting the President for all athletic operations of the club including but not limited to, hiring/removing coaches, training programs, reserving training areas and deciding on locations for training.
Bio: François hails from the French Alps. As a toddler, he kept skiing down this scary steep hill in his home backyard (that seems only to be a meter high these days). When Francois moved to Canada 40 years ago, he tried xc skiing dressed in his faithful one-piece downhill ski suit … on trail #5 … and had never sweated so much while skiing, back then. Getting a sharp looking racing suit was what motivated this Frenchman to join the club, where he discovered proper technique, friendship and the beauty of skiing without lineups. Francois is honoured to serve, for the second time, on the board of a club that offers high quality performance programs and has such a vibrant and inclusive social atmosphere.
Allan Butler – Registrar
Role: The Registrar/Membership Director is responsible for maintaining membership records, ensuring that all members have signed Cross Country Ski Canada waiver forms and collecting all forms and membership dues. He is also responsible for ensuring that all members have paid their dues and bringing to the attention of the board the names of those members who have not paid their dues.
Bio: Allan joined the Club in 2010. He hails from snowy Corner Brook NL, where he started skiing shortly after learning to walk. He is equally comfortable in classic and skate and loves to bomb down hills. Always up for company on long skis and going for coffee (or beer) après ski
Martin Loken – Member at Large
Role: The Member at Large will be responsible for Club sponsorship arrangements and designing and ordering club uniforms. The Member at Large will also be involved in assisting in other activities of the Club as required.
Bio: Growing up in Ottawa, Martin first tried cross-country skiing not long after starting to walk, but it wasn't until his 30s that he began to embrace the sport, albeit only as a 'weekend warrior'. In 2024, when he retired from a 34-year career as a Canadian diplomat, one of Martin’s goals was to get more serious about cross-country skiing. He signed up for XC Chelsea Masters fall and winter programs. It was the first time he’d been part of a ski club and had coaching. Martin really values the community, camaraderie, coffee and first-class coaching offered by XCCM. He and his wife Marianne, also an XCCM member, are working towards becoming 'Worldloppet Masters', which will entail completing marathon ski races in ten different countries around the world. Martin is pleased to join the XCCM board, to contribute in a small way to keeping the club vibrant.
Jeff Hammell – Social Director
Role: The Social Director is responsible for arranging all social activities of the Club such as parties and potluck suppers.
Bio: Jeff's skiing journey began in 2016 when he borrowed skis for his first real experience on the trails. Captivated by the beauty of the shelters and the Parc, Jeff found himself returning year after year. As the pandemic stretched on, Jeff increased his ski-trip ratio and tried skate. This decision paid off, and in 2022, he took a significant step forward by joining XCCM. Since then, he has received solid coaching and discovered a warm, supportive community. The summer of 2024 had Jeff organizing XCTRA-curricular activities for the club, focusing on social exercise and building connections. As winter approaches, Jeff is excited to channel his passion into organizing fun and inclusive social ski events and sharing the joy of skiing
Laurel Louden – Comms Director
Role: The Communications Director is responsible overall club communications.
Bio: Laurel started cross-country skiing as a kid in her native Nova Scotia. Skiing in those days meant shuffling after her father across lakes, down trails and through the backcountry on adventures short and long. Laurel joined XCCM shortly after moving to Ottawa in 2019 and was shocked to discover that this kind of cross-country skiing involves more lycra and much less boiled wool and leather. Since then she's learned to skate ski, taken part in the CSM and Gatineau Loppet, attended winter camp and has towed her young children in a chariot as far as they will tolerate. Like the rest of the board, Laurel has benefited tremendously from XCCM's excellent coaching and friendly, supportive members, and is delighted to have the opportunity to give back to the club.
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Welcome!
If you are a potential new member, this page is for you. Below you will find the background and history of the club, as well as the level of skiing and fitness required.
We have many programs depending on how much and what type of training you are looking for and when you are available. It is an à la carte system where you can do as much or as little as you would like. Some members join just for the social activities.
XC Chelsea Masters (XCCM) is a community of adult cross-country skiers who share a passion for staying active, improving their skills and fitness, and enjoying the sport together. Based in Canada’s National Capital Region, XCCM offers coaching and training opportunities for recreational and competitive skiers.
We recognize our members come from a wide range of backgrounds and have different goals, experience, and fitness levels. So, whether you’re training for an event or looking to become a stronger skier, our coaches tailor sessions to the needs of masters’ athletes, balancing skill development, fitness, recovery, injury prevention, and the enjoyment of skiing.
Build dryland and on-snow fitness
Our programs are designed to help you build fitness, improve your skiing, and be ready for the winter season. We assume you are active throughout the summer months and are prepared for 2-3-hour workouts hiking, ski striding, or running starting in September.
Training begins in the fall with dryland sessions focused on endurance, strength, and ski-specific fitness before moving to on-snow practices as the conditions allow.
Throughout the winter, our progressive training approach designed in 4-week blocks helps you focus on endurance, threshold and peak speed to allow you to enjoy loppets, racing or touring.
Improve your technique
Qualified coaches provide technique assessment and correction, instruction and feedback in both classic and skate skiing techniques. You can expect feedback on your technique at every practice.
Get stronger through strength training
Follow a comprehensive indoor strength training program with a certified strength and conditioning specialist. These sessions focus on ski-specific strength, endurance and injury-prevention techniques. Strength training is done within a group setting making it challenging, stimulating and fun!
Participate in loppets and races
Racing can be a fun way to set personal challenging goals for yourself and to celebrate your success!
We encourage all masters to try at least one event per year. The Gatineau Loppet, held each February in the Park, is a favourite among club members and is an excellent introduction to ski
Attend focused training camps and clinics
There will be two multi-day training camps to develop both fitness and ski technique and afford athletes the opportunity to build their ski community.
In addition, we offer shorter, technique focused clinics in the fall and winter.
Our programs are designed for skiers who already have experience with both classic and skate skiing and want to build on that foundation.
You should be comfortable skiing intermediate to advanced trails and be able to participate in outings of approximately 20–30 km. You must also be a master skier, i.e., aged 30 and over.
Here are some useful links for new members:
- See the Club’s Vision, Mission, and History for more background on us.
- See the Membership page for info on how to create an account and buy a membership.
- The Shop is our e-commerce store where memberships, programs, camps, and clinics are purchased.
- The Calendar / Next Practice page has information on upcoming practices and social events.
- Still have questions?
- Have a look at the FAQ. There is a lot of good information there.
- If that does not answer your questions, contact us at xcchelseamasters@gmail.com
This is a full listing of the programs offered by XC Chelsea Masters. (For purchases, go to the XCCM Shop )
To improve your endurance, strength, power, speed, flexibility, and ski-specific fitness. Sessions combine ski walking, ski bounding, running, strength training, agility exercises, and aerobic interval training.
You will need ski walking/bounding poles (i.e. slightly shorter than classic XC ski poles), an exercise/yoga mat, a water belt, a headlamp, and dry clothes to change into afterward. Dress for running. The last four practices will be with Mike Patone at Evolve Strength and Conditioning on Sommerset St. W, Ottawa.
Tue Dryland – Sep 15 to Dec 15
6:30 – 8:00 pm at Mooney’s Bay and Evolve Strength and Conditioning, Ottawa.24 Nov to 15 Dec at Evolve (4 weeks)
$150 for 14 weeks
Live, in-person strength training. Under the supervision of Mike Patone, strength coach and owner of Evolve Strength and Conditioning, you will follow a phased, structured strength training program designed to improve your joint mobility, flexibility, and build strength. The practice will involve dynamic activation exercises starting at 6:00, strength circuits, and recovery rolling. During the practice, you will receive instruction and individual supervision. The training goals will be to build joint strength, specific ski strength, and avoid injury. Bring your water bottle, snacks, dry clothes for after, your towel, and dress for weight training.
Thu Strength – Sep 17 to Dec 10, 2026
- Time: 6:15 pm
- Participants: Min 8 / Max 12
- Price: $375 Register directly through the Evolve website
- 13 weeks
Focus on endurance, aerobic and anaerobic intervals, strength, flexibility, and ski-specific fitness. Members are divided into groups based on fitness level, including a low-impact option for those recovering from injury or looking for a less demanding workout. Sessions are adapted to meet individual goals and abilities.
Oct 3rd's session will be at Lac-Ste-Marie (fall camp)
If early snow arrives, some sessions may move to on-snow training
Training includes a dynamic warm-up, strength exercises, easy distance and interval training, a cool-down, and stretching.
Sat Dryland – Sep 12 to Dec 12, 2026
(INCLUDING A LOW-IMPACT GROUP)8:30 am – 11:30 am, in Gatineau Park (Except Oct 3th at Lac-Ste-Marie)
$240 for 14 weeks
Roller Ski Clinic 1 – Sun, Sep 20, 2026 – Beginner (opens below under clinics)
Roller Ski Clinic 2 – Sun, Sep 27, 2026 – Refresher (opens below under clinics)
The camp is held at Mont Ste-Marie ski resort. Participants may choose to stay overnight or commute each day. The weekend combines dryland training, technique development, low-intensity endurance activities, and lots of social time. MSM is a beautiful place, and it is the perfect weekend to improve your skills, build fitness, and enjoy great company before heading home.
Accommodation: One chalet pre-booked.
Tentative Schedule
- Saturday morning: Regular dryland training session.
- Sunday afternoon: Choice of roller skiing (Blue Sea), road cycling, or dynamic hiking. The day wraps up with a potluck dinner for camp members and other Saturday participants if they wish to join.
- Sunday morning: Fun orienteering event. Final group lunch at a local restaurant.
Fall Training Camp – Oct 3 to 4, 2026
- Location: Lac-Ste-Marie, Quebec
- 9:30 am – 12:30 am Oct 3. Regular Saturday morning practice
- 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm Oct 3. Rollerskiing, cycling, or hiking
- 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Oct 4. Orienteering
- 1 chalet will be pre-booked for XCCM for those staying overnight
Join XCCM coaches for five days of early-season skiing at SilverStar, one of Canada's premier Nordic ski destinations. The camp focuses on technique development, video analysis, and skill refinement in the mornings. Participants are encouraged to arrive a few days early to acclimatise to the altitude and maximize their training experience. Book flights and accommodations early for the best prices and availability.
Morning activities include classic and skate skiing, video analysis. Afternoons are left open for easy distance skiing, recovery sessions, or exploring the extensive trail network.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation, accommodation and food as well as trail passes.
Winter Camp – Dec 7 to 11, 2026
- Location: SilverStar, British ColumbiaTime
- Time: Coached sessions Monday to Friday 9:00 am to Noon.
Afternoons and evenings are self organized. - Participants: Max 24
To give an idea of the winter programs we run these are the programs from last year (except the new Thursday daytime program). They will go on sale later in the fall.
This training program for skiers who want to improve their technique, fitness, and confidence throughout the ski season. The program welcomes members who enjoy challenging themselves while training in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Sessions alternate weekly between skate and classic skiing (subject to snow and trail conditions) and include technique instruction, video analysis, endurance training, and ski-specific fitness work. The first two months focus on building fitness and training intensity, while the final month emphasizes technical refinement and performance. Special end-of-season activities may include crust skiing or ski orienteering.
This program usually sells out. Priority is given to returning participants. It can be difficult to get into.
Saturday Spartans
- Jan 3 to Mar 21 (except Feb 14)
- 8:30 am – 11:30 am in Gatineau Park
Spartans, it’s Tough and It’s Friendly
French Roast is designed for intermediate and advanced skiers looking for a challenging evening workout. Sessions focus on cardio, intensity, and movement, with minimal technique instruction to help participants stay warm and keep moving on cold winter evenings.
Training alternates weekly between skate and classic and follows courses that keep the group together, ensuring everyone enjoys the workout regardless of pace.
French Roast
- Jan 6 to Mar 24
- 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm in Gatineau Park
French Roast, It’s Dark and It’s Intense
For intermediate to advanced skiers only. Must be at ease with classic skiing on narrow, windy backcountry trails.
Focus on technique and agility improvement, on-snow strength work, and finishing off with an enjoyably paced ski. Some video analysis of ski techniques.
Mostly classic skiing on secondary single-track trails. Experience backcountry skiing in lesser-known areas of the Park. Coffee afterwards at Les Saisons, XCCM unofficial Clubhouse in Chelsea.
Nordic Nomads
- Jan 7 to Mar 25
- 10:00 am - 12:30 pm in Gatineau Park
Nomads, It’s Adventurous and It’s Challenging
This new week-day timeslot offers a training program for skiers who want to improve their technique, fitness, and confidence throughout the ski season. The Thursday program welcomes members who enjoy challenging themselves while training in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Sessions alternate weekly between skate and classic skiing (subject to snow and trail conditions) and include technique instruction, video analysis, endurance training, and ski-specific fitness work.
Thursday Espresso
- Jan 7 to Mar 25
- 9:00 am - 12:00 pm in Gatineau Park
Espresso, a fun jolt to the system
Members self-organized ski outings on Sunday mornings. No formal structure other than the organizer posting on Facebook details about the outings, including at least the time and place of the gathering, and preferably proposed route options and ski technique. Typically, 2- to 4-hour Long Steady Distance skis following a good Saturday practice, excellent for endurance training.
These outings are not part of the club-sanctioned official programming. The club encourages GOOFS as beneficial to members' enjoyment of xc skiing.
No registration, no cost.
Usually on Sunday morning in Gatineau Park
GOOFS, It’s Great Organic Outings For Sundays.
Winter Clinics: Three Skate Clinics, one XC-Downhill, one Classic
Rollerskiing is an excellent way to prepare for the winter season and make the transition to early snow skiing easier. These clinics are designed to help skiers develop confidence and improve their rollerski technique.
The Beginner Clinic introduces basic rollerski skills, balance, and safe movement techniques.
Rollerski Clinic 1 – Sep 20 2026
Session 1: Beginner- Time: 9 am to 11 am
- Participants: Min 4 / Max 10
- Price: $50
Rollerskiing is an excellent way to prepare for the winter season and make the transition to early snow skiing easier. These clinics are designed to help skiers develop confidence and improve their rollerski technique.
The Refresher Clinic builds on those skills and focuses on skate skiing techniques such as double poling, one skate, and offset.
Rollerski Clinic 2 – Sep 27 2026
Session 2: Beginner/Intermediate- Time: 9 am to 11 am
- Participants: Min 4 / Max 10
- Price: $50
You will be able to buy the following 5 on snow cliincs togeather as a mini-program (at a discount), or buy individual clinics. Below are example of the winter clinics from last year.
Registering to the full series will allow for better integration and mastery of skate techniques early on in the ski season. Participants are encouraged to practice on their own right after the clinic.
Clinic instructors will provide more details to participants before each clinic.
Skate Clinic 1
Sunday, Jan 11, 9:00 am – 10:30 am in Gatineau ParkThis clinic is part of a series of 3 clinics about skate technique. There will be a progression in the level of technique skills and exercises over the series.
Registering to the full series will allow for better integration and mastery of skate techniques early on in the ski season. Participants are encouraged to practice on their own right after the clinic.
Clinic instructors will provide more details to participants before each clinic.
Skate Clinic 2
Sunday, Jan 18, 9:00 am – 10:30 am in Gatineau ParkThis clinic is part of a series of 3 clinics about skate technique. There will be a progression in the level of technique skills and exercises over the series.
Registering to the full series will allow for better integration and mastery of skate techniques early on in the ski season. Participants are encouraged to practice on their own right after the clinic.
Clinic instructors will provide more details to participants before each clinic.
Skate Clinic 3
Sunday, Jan 25, 9:00 am – 10:30 am in Gatineau ParkThis clinic is part of a series of 3 clinics about skate technique. There will be a progression in the level of technique skills and exercises over the series.
This clinic is for strong novices and intermediate-skilled classic skiers who wish to improve their classic ski technique.
Classic Ski Clinic
Sunday, Feb 109:00 am – 10:30 am in Gatineau Park
A great way to practice and gain more confidence when going downhill. Participants must be at least strong novices able to ride most Gatineau Park hills. The clinic will cover key skills to control speed, including snowplow and parallel skidding, stopping, emergency stopping, cornering, step turns, lane changes, and parallel turns.
Gaining Confidence Downhill Clinic
Sunday, Feb 909:00 am – 10:30 am in Gatineau Park
If you want private ski lessons, the following coaches offer them. Contact them directly to make arrangements.
Dan Mallett – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI, AND SKI COACH
Dan is a Chelsea resident, who has been involved in cross-country skiing for over 30 years as an athlete, coach and sports administrator. In the 70s he grew up in the Muskoka Lakes region of Ontario and competed for the Southern Ontario Team, where he was a member of the relay team which won gold at the nationals. In the 80s he raced internationally in Cross Country Skiing and represented Canada in Biathlon at 3 world championships and several world cups. Since then he has coached 100s of athletes in the national capital region where some have attained Olympic and Paralympic results. In addition, he has either lead or participated on teams as a coach at national championships, the Canada Winter Games and World Cups. As a volunteer sports administrator, he has contributed in several roles in club, provincial and national sports organizations. Employed as a project manager and engineer he has combined his skills with his passion to work at both the Vancouver Winter and London Summer Olympic games. Currently Dan can be found skiing in Gatineau Park and providing instruction to all levels of skiers.
Contact: danielmallett57@gmail.com
Jamie Kallio – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI, SKI COACH, & ATHLETIC COORDINATOR
Jamie grew up in the Northern Ontario city of Timmins where he developed an appreciation for outdoor winter sports at an early age. Skiing, skating, snowshoeing during the winter and biking, running and eventually roller skiing began at an early age and were routine by age 14. Racing at the provincial and national level for the Porcupine Ski Runner club in Timmins became a year-round commitment for seven years. After that, the sport of Biathlon with the National Training Squad became the focus for 3 years in the mid-1980s. This led to a berth on the 1987 World Championship Team and eventually a spot on the Canadian team for the 1988 Calgary Olympics. Since then Jamie has been giving lessons in skiing and coaching from the club to the international level in biathlon and cross-country skiing. He also has an NCCP Level 3 Certification in both Cross-country skiing and Biathlon. Currently, racing is less of a priority; with the goal now of getting a permanent bib at the CSM.
Contact: jamiekallio1@gmail.com
Peter Lloyd – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI AND SKI COACH
Peter has been cross country ski racing for over 30 years. He has a BSc degree in Bio-Physical Education (Kinesiology) from Concordia University, has completed his Level 3 NCCP and is working on his Level 4 coaching certification. Peter coached with XCCM since 2011 and has previously with Nakkertok where he helped lead the Nakkertok juniors to a Team victory at the National Championships. Many of the athletes that Peter has worked with are now racing on the Junior National team or with National Training Centres. In 2005, he coached the Outaouais Divisional team at the Jeux Du Quebec. He enjoys seeing the athletes having fun, and continuing to improve in all aspects of their performance. Peter has also competed and coached Triathlon racing and holds a Level 1 Technical certification in that sport. In addition to coaching, Peter is also a member of the Board of Directors of Cross Country Canada.
Contact: plloydchelsea@gmail.com
Raylan Stroud – DRYLAND, ROLLERSKI, and SKI COACH
Raylan grew up in Northern Ontario exploring the woods; canoe tripping, hiking, and skiing with her outdoor enthusiastic parents. In grade 6 her family moved to Huntsville, Ontario where she joined the Arrowhead Ski Program as a Jackrabbit and subsequently the Huntsville High School Cross Country Ski Team. Thanks to some amazing teammates and coaches Raylan’s love for cross country skiing was developed. She continued to race at the provincial and national level with the University of Guelph Varsity Ski Team. After university her athletic focus changed slightly, and she spent a few years racing triathlons nationally and internationally with the Ontario Development Team. An eager young athlete, Raylan was not only a cross country skier but a competitive dancer, soccer player, alpine ski racer, cross country runner, and triathlete. This diverse background allows her to coach in a very comprehensive style. In 2019, Raylan moved to Ottawa, drawn in by the biking/triathlon and skiing community. She began coaching Jackrabbits with Kanata Nordic and downhill skiing at Camp Fortune. Raylan is planning to attend teacher’s college next, but for now you can find her spending every free moment cycling (road, gravel, mountain or cross), trail running, or skiing in Gatineau Park!
Contact: raylan.jamison@gmail.com
Karen Nesbitt – SKI COACH
Karen is passionate about the outdoors and enjoys sharing her passion with others to help improve their experience, and create opportunities to explore new endeavours. She’s been living in Chelsea near the Gatineau Park for over 40 years and takes advantage of the beauty, and variety of the trails in every season. Karen grew up skiing in the Laurentians from a very early age, and has been involved with teaching and coaching both downhill and cross country skiing for over 25 years. She is a CANSI Certified instructor, and NCCP coach and has taught privately as well as with Chelsea Nordique, Mooney’s Bay, Nakkertok, new immigrants to Canada, and various Ski for Schools programs in the Ottawa/Gatineau area.
Contact: karen.m.nesbitt@gmail.com
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