Jannette Porter is celebrating 30 years of membership in Trakkers. In an interview last week, she shared some reflections of her time in the club.
When and why did you join Trakkers?
Jannette confides that she never thought of herself as an athlete, but when she tried cross- country skiing, it felt natural and right. She began skiing as member of a different club, but after being invited to join a Trakkers trip, and having such a great time on it, she switched to Trakkers in 1979. During her early years as a Trakkers member, she used the club’s free ski lessons to improve her technique and courage to tackle big hills. Except for several years when she lived away from Toronto, this dedicated club member has never looked back.
In what ways have you benefited from being a member?
In addition to the fitness and social benefits, Jannette says the club provided her a place to develop leadership skills and confidence. She reports that when she was nominated for club President, she was so flabbergasted she didn’t protest and it was only when she received the materials from her predecessor that she realized how big an opportunity (and challenge) she had taken on! The experience was so rewarding, she accepted the President role again, years later. Club executive roles such as Membership Director and Publicity Director also helped her learn and grow her leadership abilities and friendships in the club.
Many Trakkers members don’t know that the club was started under the auspices of the YMCA. During her first term as President, Jannette shepherded the club’s transition to an independent non-profit organization.
What are some highlights of your early and more recent experiences as a member?
Longer trips and off-season activities have been especially memorable. Kayaking around Toronto Islands and paddling down the Don River with fellow Trakkers were fun too. Jannette helps run the popular Trakkers Spokes and Spiggots Winery Bike Tour.
She recalls a Year-End Party where Earth Hour was observed with candles and time for contemplation. It is always a pleasure to re-connect with ski friends and meet new cross-county skiing enthusiasts every November at the annual Club Open House.
What are some things you like about the club now?
Jannette likes the family-friendly orientation of the club and new destinations that have been added to the list of resorts we travel to, especially Arrowhead and Kawartha.
Most of all, Jannette loves the quiet peace of being outside in a winter wonderland on her skis enjoying the austere beauty of fresh snow hanging on tree branches under a brilliant, cloudless sky. Gliding along groomed, double tracked trails in conversation with a fellow member is a special pleasure.
Congratulations Jannette!
