Jackrabbits
ABOUT
The Jackrabbit program is a great way for children to learn and develop all the skills necessary to enjoy the sport of cross-country skiing.
Chelsea Nordiq offers a 9-week program for Jackrabbit levels 1, 2 and 3/4. Our focus is on providing a positive learning environment that is both fun and rewarding. The children learn the basics of classic skiing at level 1 and 2 and skate skiing is introduced at level 3/4.
A big highlight is the end of season Jamboree – fun activities, hot chocolate and maple taffy make for a winning recipe.
NEW! This season we are introducing our Jackrabbit 3/4 dryland training. This program is for 7 year olds (born 2019) who have completed Jackrabbit 2 and will run on Sundays 1-3pm for 9 weeks from Oct 18 - Dec 13. The program will focus on fitness and friendships while exploring the Gatineau Park and surrounding area . Activities will include games, scavenger hunts, orienteering, hiking/trail running, obstacle courses and loads of fun.
This program is not a prerequisite for the winter Learn-to-Ski program but is for those who want a little more time and focus on outdoor fitness and fun this fall season. If your child has completed JR2 and is 8 yrs old or older, consult our program guide for the appropriate program.
Note: The winter session for the Jackrabbit 3/4 group will be at the same time 1-3pm from Jan-March with sessions at Larrimac Golf Course and in the Gatineau Park.
Please note: All families will be required to volunteer as a coach, parking attendant or hot chocolate duty. There will be a sign up sheet prior to the start of lessons.
FAQ
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Choose Jackrabbit level 1 if your child has completed Bunny Rabbits, or if your child is new to skiing.
Choose Jackrabbit level 2 if your child has completed Jackrabbit level 1.
Choose Jackrabbit level 3 if your child has completed Jackrabbit level 2.
See our Program Guide for further information.
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The lessons start Sunday January 10, 2027. There are nine Sunday sessions, including the Jamboree.
Session start times:
Jackrabbit level 1 and 2:
Choose 1:00 pm or 2:45 pm.JR1 is 1 hour long, JR2 is 1h30m long.
Jackrabbit level 3/4:
1:00 pm for 2 hoursFall Dry Land training for Jackrabbit level 3/4:
1:00 pm for 2 hours Oct 18 - Dec 13 -
Most of the lessons take place at Larrimac Golf Course, 1148 Route 105, Chelsea. Some programs may do one or two lessons in the Gatineau Park or along the Voie Verte.
The fall dryland Jackrabbit 3/4 program will be at various locations in the Gatineau Park. The winter Jackrabbit 3/4 program will be at Larrimac Golf Course with some lessons in the Gatineau Park.
It is strongly recommended to car pool to Larrimac as parking is limited.
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Programs are coached by parent coaches with the addition of a youth coach when available. Training sessions will be offered to parents who help lead a group.
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JR1: Classic skis (skins or scales recommended) and ski boots that fit the skis. No poles. Skis should be about the same length as the height of the child.
JR2: Classic skis (skins or scales recommended), ski boots that fit the skis, and poles. Skis should be about the same length, or slightly longer than the height of the child. Poles should be up to the armpit, with boots on.
JR3: Classic skis, skate skis*, boots and poles. Classic skis should be about a hand length taller than the child. Skate skis about the same height as the child. One pair of boots (combi recommended). One or two sets of poles. Classic poles up to armpit with boots on. Skate poles up to the mouth with boots on.
*Note: your child can use waxable classic skis for skate skiing by removing the wax. It’s very difficult to skate ski using classic skis with ‘skins’ or ‘scales’ and therefore is not recommended.
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The cost for the 9-week program is $176.
Additionally, all registrants must pay for affiliation with the Provincial Ski Organization and Nordiq Canada ($36) and purchase a Family or Individual Child “Learn To Ski” Chelsea Nordiq Club Membership ($32 to $137).
More Questions?
For further information please email programmanager@chelseanordiq.ca