North American Vasa celebrates 50th Anniversary in Traverse City

Thu, Oct  16, 2025 - By North American Vasa

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., Oct. 15, 2025 � The North American Vasa, sponsored by Cherry Capital Airport, will celebrate its 50th anniversary Feb. 14-15, 2026, at Timber Ridge Resort in Traverse City. Registration is open at "https://www.vasa org.

The Vasa began in 1976 when Ted Okerstrom, George Lombard, and Olympic skier Vojin Baic organized a grassroots race with about 40 participants. A year later, 234 skiers lined up at Cherry Capital Airport and raced to Ranch Rudolf. Now, fifty years later, hundreds of skiers from across the Midwest return to Traverse City each winter for one of the region�s premier Nordic ski events, attracting Olympians, local champions, and recreational skiers alike.

This year's festival will revive the 50-kilometer classic and freestyle races in honor of the event's 50-year history. Other events inciude 27- and 12-kilometer freestyle races, 15-kilometer classic races, a 6-kilometer tour, a 25-kilometer fatbike race, and the new Bigfoot Community Relay, sponsored by Cross Country Ski Headquarters.

�We're excited to bring back the 50K race as a tribute to the event's roots,� said Race Directors Ken Dawson and Cliff Onthank. �At the same time, we're looking to the future of the sport with the Junior Vasa, high school races, and the new Community Relay that connects generations through the fun and camaraderie of Nordic skiing.�

Organizers say they're hopeful for another snowy winter but have again partnered with Traverse City Parks and Recreation to use Hickory Hills as an alternate venue. The site�s snowmaking capabilities ensure the event can continue even if conditions at Timber Ridge fall short.

�This event started as a dream among friends who wanted to bring world-class Nordic skiing to northern Michigan,� said North American Vasa Board President Brian Beauchamp. �Fifty years later, the Vasa is still bringing together skiers and bikers of every age and ability.�