Cathe joined VISAS / Alpine in 1995, making the 2021-22 season her 26th with the adaptive program. She first learned to ski on the Plains of Abraham in Quebec City, then moved on to downhill at Stoneham, QC and the Gatineau, QC before heading out west.
"I've been involved in coaching and teaching some form of adaptive sports (swimming & skiing) since the 1970s. It's always a thrill to see the smiles on our students when they master a new skill".
Longtime resident of the Comox Valley, Cathe has served on a number of community and non-profit boards.
In the winter months you'll find her at Mt Washington, wild swimming at Point Holmes, and pursuing a few creative projects.
In the off season, Cathe teaches Nordic Pole Walking programs in the Valley and Campbell River, does more wild swimming,
and paddle boarding.
Along with her partner Jeremy, she also spends time gardening and trail blazing on their rural property, in between chasing
after their Golden Retriever, Murphy, and their terrier-size Mexican rescue dog, Mookie.
Christine was first introduced to VISAS with her son, Benjamin. He learned to ski thanks to VISAS and this motivated her to join as a instructor.
It has been very rewarding for her to give back to the organization that made such a difference in her son’s life.
Steve joined VISAS Nordic in 2010 - the same year he and his wife, Brenda, moved to the Comox Valley from Alberta.
As a P.E. teacher for thirty years in Red Deer, cross country skiing was an integral part of the school curriculum during the winter months.
Transitioning to VISAS volunteer at Mt. Washington was a given and the opportunity to work with a very specialized clientele has been very rewarding.
When he is not on the mountain, Steve likes to ride his bike, golf, kayak, garden and volunteers with a local Christmas hamper program.
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I started Nordic skiing when I was around 21. I had been raised on downhill in the Laurentians of Quebec. X-country skiing was hard work in comparison.
When I moved to Courtenay in 2011 I discovered that there was a vacancy in the Nordic Visas program and was thrilled to be accepted on the team...I have a real interest in teaching (I teach Yin Yoga now as well) and in having youth and adults alike find joy in the activity, joy in being out on the mountain in nature, and celebrating accomplishment.
Being with children with some cognitive challenges has challenged me and I am thankful for all the relevant training we have been offered to make our few hours together on the mountain fun for them. Working with our adult students has been a true gift. They face the challenges with determination and an inspiring attitude. And that is a gift for us all.