The Bedford High School nordic ski team hosted its home race at Waterville Valley last Thursday instead of at Earl Legacy Park in Bedford, where in previous winters a majority of the Southern New Hampshire high school races have been held.

All races that were planned for Legacy this winter have had to be moved to other locations further north.

“Gunstock and Waterville Valley really stepped up and helped out by allowing us to hold races at their resorts. Each race sees a couple hundred skiers and both ski areas have been incredible in welcoming the high school racers,” said Bedford varsity coach Jenn Rowe.

It’s not just the races that have

suffered.

“The lack of snow this winter has significantly limited our practice time on skis,” said Anders Vikstrom, head coach of the nordic varsity ski team. “Twelve skiers graduated last year. This year we have two senior and eight junior veteran skiers, and a large group of secon- year and novice skiers. Our novice skiers need practice time on their skis. The northern teams have been able to be on snow since November, which unfortunately puts us at a disadvantage.”

Vikstrom said they were grateful to McIntyre Ski Resort in Manchester for opening up some Monday evenings when man-made snow was available for practices.

In spite of the snow limitations, Coach Vikstrom says the team has performed well in races.

“Our team captains, senior Noel Desmarais and junior Maddie Beaton, have kept the team spirit positive. This group is high energy and committed. I’m really proud of how all of the skiers have adapted to this unusual season,” he said. “We’ve had to be creative in our work outs to optimize cardio and build the muscle strength required to be a competitive nordic racer.”

The Bedford Nordic Ski Team will be wrapping up its season in the next two weeks. The Division I State Championships will be held March 4 at Gunstock in Gilford, followed by the Meet of Champions March 12 at Proctor Ski Area in Andover.