Long Track Blades Purchase Poll
The club is polling membership to purchase Long Track Blades for interested Group 2 skaters. Please respond by midnight Nov 28 Friday.
One or two pairs each of sizes 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17. The blades we are considering are the CADOMOTUS NSX III LT blades, which Chris recommended last year as suitable for short track boots.
The regular price for each blade is approximately $379, with slight variations depending on the vendor. Purchasing this set is within the capital equipment budget, would provide maximum flexibility, allowing the club to rent them to skaters participating in BCLT events or other club teams.
Background:
Dear Club Members,
Many of you have recently inquired about BC Long Track (BCLT). We would like to clarify some background information to help everyone make an informed decision.
BC Long Track has no specific age or speed requirements, so it is recommended that all skaters have the opportunity to try it. However, the only Long Track rink in BC is located in Fort St John, so some travel is necessary. Since last year, more of our skaters have begun participating in Long Track competitions and have won many medals.
Regarding recent questions about Long Track blades: for younger children, such as club skaters, it is completely acceptable to compete using short track blades. The race distances are shorter and the skaters’ lighter weight means that long track blades with springs are not mandatory. This information comes from discussions with Coach Keven. For specific personal guidance, parents are encouraged to communicate directly with the coaches.
Last year, our youth skaters rented very old Long Track blades from the Vancouver club and were only able to try them briefly at our ice rink one day before the competition. Coach Chris had suggested purchasing Long Track blades last year, but for various reasons, this did not happen.
Now that BCLT registration has already started, some parents have raised this issue again. As a non-profit club, purchasing equipment does not requires the use of club reserve funds at this time and is within the capital equipment budget. Therefore, we are seeking input from all club members on whether the club should purchase Long Track blades.
The proposed blades would be available for rental to club members, either per session or per month (exact rental terms and pricing to be discussed). This would help ensure that equipment is not a barrier for members who want to try Long Track speed skating.
As you may know, it is currently Black Friday sale season, and we may have the opportunity to purchase at a price lower than the usual club discount. Due to this timing, the poll period is short, and we hope all members will vote thoughtfully and carefully.
Thank you for your attention and participation.
Natalie