It sounds funny to call the snow and ice of the Grand Traverse region a “hotbed” for winter sports, but that’s what it is.

This year’s North American Vasa Festival of Races, February 10-11, is expected to again draw as many as a thousand citizen competitors from all over the U.S. – and at least a few athletes from such traditional Nordic ski strongholds as Sweden, Norway and Germany.

As in past years, all races will start and finish at Timber Ridge Resort east of Traverse City at the end of Hammond Road.
 
A Grand Traverse Tradition
Started in 1977, supporters say the event has thrived thanks to some 350 volunteers, a year-round board of directors, sponsors, the site (the Vasa Pathway in the Pere Marquette State Forest) – and the (mostly reliable) annual snowfall. Over the years the event also expanded, from one day to two, with the addition of freestyle events like skate skiing and fat tire bike races. 
 
Saturday
The action begins at 9am Saturday, February 10 with the grueling 51k Okerstrom Ski Marathon and finishes in the afternoon with two fat tire races (for exact starting times and details in each “wave,” visit vasa.org).
 
Sunday
Events on Sunday are a return to the the event's roots – traditional or “classic” Nordic ski techniques on freshly-groomed trails.
 
Amenities
Skiers and spectators alike can chow down at the “Vasa Pasta” dinner Friday night starting at 5pm at Timber Ridge Resort. The food is provided by Kelly Catering, which will also sell soup and fresh bread Saturday and Sunday.
 
Staying Warm
Staying warm won’t be a problem, promises Vasa board president Mike Haley. In addition to Timber Ridge’s two (heated) buildings, organizers have constructed a 40 foot-by-120-foot tent behind the banquet hall. “The tent is heated, has a floor, and there’ll be food, beer and lots of room,” says Haley.
 
Parking
Parking at the event is always at a premium. Timber Ridge will plow a large area for overflow parking. There is no public transportation to Timber Ridge.
 
Last Minute Changes?
Vasa Board President Mike Haley tells The Ticker the event has been completely cancelled only once in its long history. However, weather conditions can determine whether modifications are made to the race schedule. Haley says any changes will be decided upon on Wednesday, February 7, and can be monitored via the Vasa website, a newsletter emailed to all participants, and press releases sent to local media.