Cross-country skiing is one of the oldest skiing sports, and is a sport with a long history, dating back to Viking times when it was used as a mode of transport as well as a means for hunting in the winter months in Nordic countries.
It is a low impact sport and is easily learned, with no boundaries for age, gender or fitness level. Cross country skiing is truly a “sport for life” – in that participation is open to any age group.
Biathlon combines cross country skiing with target shooting and is a popular TV winter sport. Ireland is an affiliate member of the International Biathlon Union, IBU.
Cross Country Skiing in Ireland
There are no active CC skiing clubs in Ireland though there is an active roller ski league in the UK.
Cross Country Skiing in Ireland is affiliated to FIS, through the Snowsports Association of Ireland and its aims are to:
• Promote Irish participation in cross country skiing
• Provide coaching and development opportunities for youth in the sport
• Support the national team members and facilitate Ireland’s representation at FIS, World Championship and Olympic events
National Representation
Ireland has had athletes attend the World Championships in 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2011. Ireland also had an athlete compete in CC in the 2002, 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
Events
There are no CC races held in Ireland currently but the opportunity exists to organize roller ski events should number be sufficient. The event calendar of www.fis-ski.com gives a comprehensive list of races as well as ski marathons throughout Europe and the rest of the world.
For further information please contact:
Rory Morrish, CC coordinator
e-mail: rorymorrish@yahoo.co.uk