October 29, 2015 (Seattle, WA) – Madshus, the world’s leading performance Nordic ski company, is thrilled to announce Margie Freed and Lance McKenney as the winners of the second annual Peter Hale Memorial Scholarship. To aid in both recipients’ continued ski development, Madshus will donate a full set up of skis, bindings, boots and poles to their ski programs. With nominations received from across the country, the selected recipients were chosen based on exemplifying the following criteria:

• High school-aged athlete (14 to 18-years-old)
• Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to Nordic skiing within his/her community
• An exceptional ambassador for the sport
• Demonstrates great potential as outlined by his/her coaches and peers

Margie Freed © courtesy of Madshus

Margie Freed
Freed, from Eastview High School in Apple Valley, MN, was nominated by Madshus athlete Brian Gregg and her coach Brian Abery. “Margie is fully committed to Nordic skiing, working out for the sport six days a week,” stated Abery. “She is always willing to help new skiers and is a great example of a truly humble athlete who is always modest about her successes.”

“I’m thrilled and honored to receive the Peter Hale scholarship this year,” stated Freed. “It’s wonderful that Madshus supports the development of skiing in this way and that the Eastview Nordic Ski team will also benefit from this generosity.”

Lance McKenney © courtesy of Madshus

Lance McKenney
McKenney, from the Maine Winter Sports Center in Caribou, ME, has a commitment to training that has only increased over the years, commented one of his nominators. As someone who is exceptionally active in his Nordic community, he sets a great example of a true athlete.

“I am so thankful for this scholarship,” stated McKenney. “My goals for this season include placing top 30 at the  World Junior Championships and receiving an American title at the Junior Nationals. With Madshus’ help, I’m more prepared to reach my goals.”

“The Peter Hale Memorial Scholarship was created to help foster young skiers’ racing careers by providing the opportunity to use great gear, while also recognizing them for their contributions to the Nordic Community at large,” stated Carmi Schulman, US Marketing Coordinator at Madshus. “Freed and McKenney are great ambassadors for the sport, not only with their already impressive race resumes and dedication to training, but also because of the time they take to give back to others.”

Peter Hale committed his life to the Nordic skiing community through his many years as the Race Director for Madshus. After a long battle with cancer, Peter Evarts Hale (66) passed away on November 17, 2013 in his hometown of Bozeman, Montana. The Nordic community lost a great influencer, but through this Memorial program, Peter’s legacy will leave a great mark on the racing community and Nordic industry at large for many years to come. To keep up to date on Madshus news and events, please go to www.madshus.com.