An Open Letter to Nordic Ski Racers

Tue, Feb  25, 2020 - By John Gravlin

A hearty congratulations to all the nordic skiers and skiing groups that have been promoting and growing our sport in. Michigan this year. Snow Making at Forbush, A new Committee taking over to continue the White Pine Stampede, Excellent work and growth of the Vasa festival of races, a new Groomer and improvements at Hanson Hills, the continued outreach and work at the Headquarters, and of course the amazing work of the Frosty Freestyle and Krazy Klassic crew as they pull off miracle after miracle of holding races in southeast Michigan. There are other ski areas and groups that advance skiing through youth activities and we must congratulate and encourage those of us who work with the young skiers.

There is one more ski group and event that I would like to highlight. As you consider your skiing plans for the remainder of the season, I would like you to consider making the trip to The Black Mountain Race weekend on Saturday February 29 (Black Mountain 31K Classic and 10km Tour) and Sunday March 1 (Black Mountain 10km Freestyle). While talking with my long time friend Bill Brundage last year at the World Master's in Norway, I registered a complaint that only one member of the Vasa team raced in the 2019 Black Mountain Race. In fact our numbers have been slowly decreasing over the past several seasons from all race teams. Bill recognized my consternation and asked about our situation. When I explained that the Black Mountain Race weekend is OUR ONLY FUNDRAISER for the year and that our Black Mountain Nordic Ski Club does all of the care and grooming of the 40 Km of trails at the Mountain WITHOUT ONE PENNY OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT FROM THE DNR, He was very surprised. Our hearty group of 15-20 people here in northeast Michigan have been trying to provide a venue for nordic skiing on our shoestring budget and thousands of hours of volunteer time. On top of that, our Black Mountain Race weekend has provided quality events with great luncheon, unique awards, and great fun as our racer feedback has indicated over the years.

I would like you to consider participating in the 30km Classic Race or the10km Tour on 2/29, or the 10km Skate Race on 3/1. The conditions are excellent and the forecast is for near perfect temps and fresh snow for race weekend 2020. If you can't make it this year, please put it on your calendar for next year. Our equipment is aging and repair bills have gone up this year in particular, so also consider a donation to our efforts by visiting trailscouncil.org and designate "Black Mountain "for your donation.

Thanks again to all of us who continue to promote and grow cross-country skiing in Michigan.

See you on the Trails
John Gravlin