Tay Valley Cross Country Ski Club

HISTORY: The Tay Valley Cross Country Ski Club was founded in 1972. Since then, it has become a well-established institution serving skiers from Perth, Smiths Falls, and the region. In 1982, it entered into a partnership with Murphys Point Provincial Park and established its main trail network there. Four years later, it was incorporated as “The Tay Valley Ski and Fitness Club.” It continues to operate as a volunteer not-for-profit community organization. We continue to enjoy a close cooperative relationship with Murphys Point Provincial Park.

TRAILS: The Club, in cooperation with the authorities at the Park, designs and maintains the ski trail network. We have invested in state of the art grooming equipment which is housed at the park. Volunteers clear and prepare the trails prior to the snow season.

AFFILIATIONS: Since 1995, the club has been a full participating affiliate of Cross Country Ontario and, through it, Cross Country Canada. The regional organization is the National Capital Division. Membership in this structure provides opportunities for mutual support for the growth and development of our sport.

LOPPET: The club organizes an annual Loppet which attracts local skiers as well as skiers from the broader Ottawa-Kingston area. In recent years, we have expanded the Loppet to include shorter races and a “Cookie Race” for youth participants.

PROGRAMS: Youth activities have included the popular Jack Rabbit and Ski Fast programs. We have also introduced a skills clinic for adult skiers and to introduce new skiers to the sport. Moonlight Skis offer an opportunity to experience the dark stillness of winter.

ADMIN: Executive Meetings take place at least three times per year, with routine business accomplished through email. Annual General Meetings occur generally on the first Monday in November. AGM’s generally include a guest speaker or some sport related informational and event of related interest.