Who are Jay and Jo?
Jay has been our club president since 2023 and Jo started this year helping lead the XC program of 87 youth, and more than 20 parent coaches and volunteers.
What’s their take on Nordic skiing?
Having grown up downhill skiing in Dawson Creek, Jo was used to jumping hay bales on skis and chasing after her older brothers and sister at top speeds. She made the jump to Nordic skiing in 2018 when she and Jay joined the club. Believe it or not, Jo’s first formal lesson was just last week (January 2025), and she can’t wait for more!
Jay grew up skiing with Caledonia Nordics in Prince George where he was a competitive athlete in both XC skiing and biathlon. He pursued these passions all the way up to University.
For any of Jay’s biggest fans, please take note: his mum just sent him a box of his childhood medals – and they’re up for grabs! Single file please, no pushing…
Why do they volunteer with the Sea to Sky Nordics?
The wonderful people and the exercise. Their entire family gets in a great workout every weekend and then they head home for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Skate or classic?
Jay: Both
Jo: Skate. Unless there’s a bunch of fresh snow…
Best moves on skis
Ask Jay to do a 180° kick-turn – this guy can spin on a dime. Jo says, “Brent tried to teach us to step turn; my fall was pretty great.”
Best après ski food? Or XC snack?
Jay: Hot chocolate (with marshmallows)
Jo: Tea. Always tea
What do they do when not on skis?
To fund their adventurous lifestyle, Jay works as an engineer with Quantum Technology and Jo is a nurse practitioner with a family practice in Whistler.
When they’re not volunteering as club president and XC coordinator extraordinaire, they spend their time mountain biking, trail running, climbing, gardening, travelling and more with their two young kids.
Thank you from the Sea to Sky team to these Nordic leaders
A big thank you to Jay and Jo for all of their continued hard work and dedication to the club.
“Jay and Jo are the dynamic duo who help make our Nordic ski club the welcoming community we all love,” says XC board representative, Chrissie Arnold.
“As Club President and XC Coach Coordinator, they’re the behind-the-scenes heroes who keep everything running smoothly, ensuring coaches and groups feel supported and connected. But beyond their roles, it’s their warmth, dedication, and community spirit that truly stand out; they embody the values we strive for as a club.
For me, getting to know Jay and Jo has been one of the biggest highlights of becoming more involved in the running of the club this year. Their energy is contagious, their passion inspiring, and they remind us how much of a difference volunteers can make. If you haven’t had the chance to meet them yet, go find them next Sunday…you won’t regret it!”
Clearly, not all heroes wear capes, ya know!?