The program is named for Olympic Silver medalist Bill Koch. Bill, a native of Vermont, began skiing in the early 70's in a local ski club and was an active nordic combined skier before turning his efforts toward cross country ski racing. A few years later, he won the World Cup series. The club may be sponsored by schools, civic groups, ski touring centers, recreation departments, ski clubs, or a group of families or friends. Typical clubs meet as often as three times a week for skiing, outings, clinics, or club meetings.
Most clubs hold several special events or races during the season.
Often clubs within an area will organize a Bill Koch League Festival with regional competitions and special events. These events may include as many as 500 skiers and have the special features generally associated with a major national ski event. X-C skiing can be peaceful and relaxing, challenging and adventuresome, or strenuous and exhilaratingly fast. You can do it all your life, at any pace you choose. And even in the suburbs, you may be able to do it right out your own back door.