Vasa news!

Thu, Jan  26, 2023 - By Gussie Peterson

Vasa Nation!

As races in the lower peninsula get canceled, many are asking what’s the fate of the North American Vasa? At this point there is snow in the forecast and we are optimistic. Planning is running full speed ahead! But we are also realistic, and if the NAV Board determines that a safe and fun race is not to be had, we will cancel it. The ski, snowshoe and fat bike races will all be looked at individually, and if conditions allow for any of these races to be held, we will strongly consider it. Our creative Board has even jokingly considered a “Cancelation Party” – come to our party tent, drink Shorts beer, dance, socialize and bemoan our snowless curse! The bottom line is, nothing has been decided at this point, but we are hoping for the best. Stay tuned!

Volunteers! What would we do without them!?? It takes a small army to pull all our events off, and we could use all the help we can get! If you’re too busy with race, maybe a friend or family member is willing to pitch in? There are indoor and outdoor jobs, sitting and standing jobs, and jobs from Friday to Sunday. Volunteers get a cozy “Crew” hat, a coupon for a sandwich at the event, plus many heartfelt thank yous from our racers, To sign up, go to https://vasa.org/ and scroll down to hit the “Volunteer Here” button, or contact Fran Alfs at [email protected].

Snowshoers! We are proud to be included in the TC Track Club’s Grand Prix Circuit race series for the first time! Racers in the series get points for participation and placement. Speaking of our Vasasaurus Snowshoe race, our Snowshoe Race Director Todd LaBonte and his minions have been working on a NEW! IMPROVED! course. Come check it out! If you are a participant of the TC Track Club’s Big Foot snowshoe race, look for your $5 off coupon in your packet.

The North American Vasa recently honored Oleson's Food Stores for their more than twenty years of great support to supply our aid stations and feed our volunteers. Board President Gussie Peterson presented a beautiful plaque to the store manager of the Oleson's Hammond Road store, Hiram Angell. Mr. Angell commented that they are very pleased to support such a great community event like the Vasa. Oleson’s is located on the corner of 3 Mile and Hammond, on the way to Timber Ridge. Be sure to stop in for your race and other nutritional needs and thank them for their many years of feeding us at the Vasa!

Vasa Board President Gussie Peterson presenting plaque to Hiram Angell, store manager of the Oleson's Hammond Road store.