Most people who witness someone kick sledding are immediately impressed by the ease and speed in which a person can glide over a winter trail. Their first question may be, “What the heck is that?” but it’s sure to be followed by an enthusiastic request: “Can I try?”
Ruth Chapman started kick sledding over twenty-five years ago when she operated the Nor’west Outdoor Centre with her husband, Doug. “I wanted to have something unique for the kids to try. Something different from cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and something anyone could do, no matter what their age or athletic ability,” Ruth says. “So, when I discovered the effortlessness and enjoyment of kick sledding, I was hooked.”
The kids loved it, and although the Centre is now closed, Ruth still takes her kick sled out. Now, however, she goes out with her dog, Miska, so that he can pull her along and get his well needed exercise.
For those who enjoy winter sports, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, it’s apparent that there are limitations when it comes to certain snow conditions and weather. Cross-country skiing, more often than not, requires a groomed trail such as a snow machine trail or an established trail that is made for classic or skate skiing.
On the other hand, snowshoeing requires snow – the deeper the better. Kick-sledding is one of those winter sports that uses more of the existing conditions than other sports. It certainly works best on a packed trail, but if there’s a little bit of ice, like in the late fall or early spring, well, that just means you have a little more speed.
There are several different types of kick sleds but one of the more popular models has a seat in the front that is perfect for toting along a toddler or even an elderly person who still wants to enjoy the fresh winter air but has limited mobility. Another advantage of this seat is it offers a perfect resting spot when you’re on the trail and it’s time for tea and cookies. Simply pull up to a tree stump, set out your wares and enjoy!
When Ruth invited Terri Gibbons, a ski instructor at Kamview Nordic Centre, for a go on the kick sled, Terri caught the kick sled fever immediately.
“There’s not as much of a learning curve as cross-country skiing,” Terri admits. “But it’s still an amazing way to get some exercise and enjoy the winter.”
Ruth and Terri decided it would be a shame not to share kick sledding with the rest of Thunder Bay, so they’ve organized several clinics for the upcoming winter season. Kick sleds will be provided and a great time guaranteed for all.
“We’re encouraging people of all ages and athletic abilities to come for the clinics and try out this great winter sport,” Terri says. Once the snow arrives and the conditions are favourable, the dates and times of the clinics will be posted at Thunder Bay’s outdoor recreation stores and listed on the Kamview Nordic Centre website.
“There’s no excuse for not getting out to Kamview – or any other outdoor rec trail, for that matter – when you can kick sled,” Ruth says with a grin. “It’s perfect for lots of different types of trails.”
