Racers Invited Back to Traverse City for the 50th North American Vasa

The North American Vasa, presented by Cherry Capital Airport, will celebrate its 50th anniversary Feb. 14–15, 2026, at Timber Ridge Resort in Traverse City. Registration is open at www.vasa.org.

The Vasa began in 1976 when Ted Okerstrom, George Lombard and Olympic skier Vojin Baic organized a small race with about 40 participants. A year later, 234 skiers lined up at Cherry Capital Airport and raced to Ranch Rudolf. In the decades that followed, the Vasa grew into one of the Midwest’s premier Nordic ski events, drawing Olympians, local champions and recreational skiers from across the country.

To honor its 50-year history, this year’s festival will bring back the original 50-kilometer classic and freestyle races. Other events include 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 inviting past racers, families and longtime supporters to come back and celebrate the legacy of the Vasa,” said race directors Ken Dawson and Cliff Onthank. “The 50th is more than a race weekend. It’s a reunion for everyone who’s ever been part of this event.”

Organizers have also partnered with Traverse City Parks and Recreation to ensure the celebration goes on regardless of conditions, with Hickory Hills serving as an alternate venue featuring snowmaking and dependable terrain.

“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, that dream is still alive, and we’re excited to welcome back the skiers who helped build it.”

Photos available upon request.

Media Contact:
Libby Schnepf
Marketing & Communications, North American Vasa
libbyschnepf@gmail.com | 989-574-5919