2025/2026 Masters Travel
Over the course of the season, many of our masters athletes travel to places both near and far to either race or enjoy a bit of nordic ski tourism. Here’s a sampler of what our BBNT got up to this season!
This year, I participated in a few races: the McCall Remaster, Rendezvous, and two events in the Bogus Racing Series. Every race is a blast and leaves me with amazing memories. Participating in these events, I’ve made new friends every time and really enjoy the camaraderie and the cheers you give and receive from fellow racers. Everyone at BBNT is incredibly supportive and helpful, which makes the races feel welcoming and comfortable. The best part is spending time with awesome people, learning new racing techniques, and gaining more experience with each event. Honestly, these races are usually the highlight of my year — there’s nothing better than traveling and skiing with a group of great people!
- Katey Jones
Racing in the American Birkebeiner (the Birkie) was a truly incredible experience. The sheer size, scope, and energy of the event were remarkable. Having participated in several Ultramarathons before, this was by far the largest endurance race I’ve ever attended, with nearly 10,000 skiers competing across different distances. The enthusiastic support from volunteers and the lively crowd provided me with great motivation throughout the entire 53K classic Birkie. Another source of encouragement was the skills and techniques I gained from training with the BBNT Masters team. My progress over just one season—even with less-than-ideal snow at Bogus—transformed my skiing so much that it was almost unrecognizable from where I began. I’m deeply grateful to all the coaches and fellow athletes who assisted me on this learning journey!
-Eric Johnson
For some reason entering Nordic ski races is daunting for many of us. If that is true for you, please consider that there are many reasons to sign up and participate in a race. First and foremost it is FUN! I have made some good friends and ski buddies by racing, whether traveling locally to a race or just up at Bogus. No matter your speed or race place, fellow skiers and BBNTers are always encouraging and supportive building a camaraderie that just doesn’t happen otherwise. The second reason to race is that it reveals the things in your technique that you need to focus on to improve and so racing will make you a better skier. Finally, for me the fun of racing is challenging myself and pushing myself mentally and physically in ways that can’t be done alone. But, if that is not your thing, it’s more than okay. You can simply race for fun and camaraderie. So get out there and go get it! Of course the real reasons to race are so that you can wear glitter and that the “Kaiser” will probably give you a nickname:)
- Patti Bellan
My highlight of the season was attending three out of town races, one being a marathon distance, eating dinner with everyone at west Yellowstone, and getting lessons from a variety of coaches who each brought something to my attention that was really helpful. Looking forward to next year.
-Brian Cavanaugh