Late and Unique Nighttime Alternatives (LUNA) is again hosting recreational events through the winter season, open to members of the public and LUNA members alike.
Back by popular demand, LUNA is hosting a drop-in dodgeball night at Whistler Secondary School on Dec. 11, from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. Wear sports clothes and non-marking sneakers. No experience is necessary. Fees are $3 for LUNA members and $7 for members of the public.
On Dec. 17, LUNA and Lululemon are hosting free yoga at Millennium Place, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Bring your own mat if possible.
Soccer players can get their kicks on Dec. 18 with indoor soccer at Whistler Secondary, 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., no experience necessary. Same prices as dodgeball.
Events will continue through the winter, with dates to be announced.
Programs available for cross-country skiers
Whether you’re new to the sport or already a racer, the Whistler Nordics are helping to conduct a series of courses. There is a beginner program which is geared to skiers with some skills who wish to take part in a loppet, a personalized interval program for intermediate and competitive skiers looking to improve their times and fitness that is designed by Val Burke, and a masters program for someone who knows how to skate and compete and wants to improve on all their skills.
The cost is $135, and groups will meet on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. outside the Lost Lake Warming Hut. The first clinic was supposed to take place Dec. 4, but will be pushed back to Dec. 11 because of the rain. For more information or registration, e-mail registration@whistlernordics.com.
The Whistler Nordics are also planning their first Twoonie Race of the season for Thursday, Dec. 20, conditions permitting. To take part you will need a pass for Lost Lake cross-country trails and a Whistler Nordics membership. More information will be available next week.
Kokanee Series gets underway
The eight-race Kokanee Valley Race Series is hosting its first event on Thursday, Dec. 13, inviting all skiers, snowboarders and telemarkers to test themselves on a gated giant slalom course. Each racer will get two runs of the course, and will be ranked by their combined time.
The first race will take place on Blackcomb, with on hill registration at the Rendezvous Lodge until 9:45 a.m. The cost is $25 to take part, although you can save $5 by registering in advance at Whistler-Blackcomb Guest Relations. A pass for the entire series is also available for $120.
There are pro and amateur age classes, and participants have to be 19 years of age or older. There will be cash prizes in the pro categories, while amateurs are eligible to win merchandise. All participants, regardless of where they finish, are eligible for the prize draw which will include a pair of Atomic skis at every event.
The awards and prizes will be given out at the après party, at a location to be announced. The video playback of the race starts at 3:30 p.m., and the awards at 4 p.m.
Rail Jam next weekend
Skiers and snowboarders are invited to get their jib on as the Park Rider Sessions opens its six-event season with a rail jam on Sunday, Dec. 16 in the Habitat Terrain Park on Whistler Mountain.
Experienced judges will be on hand to grade participants as they session various rails in the park, and to keep the event safe.
Day of event registration is available in the Roundhouse Lodge until 9:45 a.m. for $25, and pre-registration is $20 in advance at Guest Relations.
Skiers and riders of all ages are welcome, and the categories range from Open 13 and Under to 17 and Over. All classes are amateur.
Helmets are mandatory for this event, and mouthguards and other padding are strongly recommended. In addition, participants will be asked to sign an additional event waived, and minors must bring a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian to sign-on. The waiver is available online at www.whistlerblackcomb.com/todo/events/mountain/parkrider.htm.
