November 03, 2017 (Stowe, Vt) – The New England Nordic Ski Association (NENSA) and the Trapp Family Lodge have partnered to create a roller ski race for an elite field of cross-country skiers including past and future Olympians. Upwards of fifty athletes representing colleges and clubs from throughout New England will compete in a challenging 10-kilometer race that will finish at the top of Trapp Hill.

Spectators are encouraged to park at the Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center parking lot and cheer skiers to the finish.  We are excited to announce that Marty and Kathy Hall will be sponsoring prize money to the event in a continued effort to support development in cross-country skiing.  The top overall male and female competitors will be vying for $300 for 1st, $200 for 2nd and $100 for 3rd place finishes.

Top-ranked New England athletes in their respective age groups will join Olympians Elizabeth Stephen, Ida Sargent, and Kris Freeman for this head-to-head competition designed to showcase Nordic skiing.  The majority of the field is comprised of athletes who were named to the NENSA Elite and Development Teams – a group who has demonstrated national and international success.  Skiers from the University of Vermont, Dartmouth College, Stratton Elite Team and the Craftsbury Green Racing Project will be in attendance.

The course will begin on Nebraska Valley Road before turning onto Barrows Road and conclude by climbing Luce and Trapp Hill.  The race begins at 3pm and skiers are expected to complete the course in approximately thirty minutes.  Racers will depart the start in thirty-second intervals, making for non-stop spectating for nearly an hour.

An award ceremony will be held at the von Trapp Bierhall at 4:30pm just before the Winter Kickoff Party.  Spectators are encouraged to attend the party where they can meet athletes and socialize with members of the New England skiing community – tickets can be purchased in advance at www.skireg.com/new-england-winter-kickoff-party or at the door.

About NENSA
NENSA is the Community Olympic Development Program (CODP) for cross-country skiing in the East as well as the umbrella for most organized Nordic skiing events in the region. Cross-country skiing, as practiced by our youth skiers and families, is a lifetime activity firmly rooted in New England tradition. It is NENSA’s mission to sustain a vital and active skiing community in New England. Visit www.NENSA.net to learn more about our organization.

Questions about the event should be directed to Justin Beckwith at justin@nensa.net