More than 200 show up for Aspen Nordic races, Ullr Fest celebration
Scott Lacy/Courtesy photo
Joining for spirited competition, more than 200 community members gathered Sunday at the Nordic trails at Aspen High School for the Skate Off the Cobwebs race, according to an Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club news release.
The race, including 20 events among youth and adult divisions, was accompanied by Ullr Fest, a celebration of winter, community, and the 40-year legacy of Aspen’s Nordic trail system.
One of the most poignant moments of the event was honoring the original Aspen/Snowmass Nordic Council and Trustees, whose vision and dedication established the foundation of the Nordic trail system, according to the release. The founding members, including Executive Director Craig Ward, and Board of Directors members Bob Wade, Skip Hamilton, Greg Mace, Roger Moyer, Toby Morse, Al Burnham, Dick Jackson, Carolyn Moore, Rob Burnett, George Madsen, Jeff Tippett, and Dick Knecht, were recognized for their contributions.
A special recognition was also given to Carolyn and Tom Moore, whose generosity made the trails at the high school and many of the connecting trails between Aspen’s major hubs possible, according to the release. Their commitment to Nordic skiing and the community has left an enduring legacy that continues to be enjoyed by thousands each winter.
“Our community is what makes events like this so special,” August Teague, Nordic Program director, said in the release. “It was incredible to celebrate both the start of the Nordic season and the legacy of those who made it all possible 40 years ago. Their vision created something that has become integral to the Aspen experience.”
With over 200 attendees and a heartfelt celebration of Aspen’s Nordic history, this year’s event was a resounding success, the release states. The Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club looks forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.
“Special thanks also went to AVSC coaches, who not only competed but also handled setup and takedown, and to Jared Dubois for managing the event’s many moving parts with skill and humor,” the release states. “AVSC Executive Director David Baugh stepped up to the grill, serving food to the crowd, while volunteers and community members created an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration. Proceeds from Ullr Fest and the Skate Off the Cobwebs race will be placed in a restricted fund for the sole benefit of the Nordic program.”
Among the standout performances were the following winners:
Men’s 10K
1. Iver Skaarseth (senior, 21-49): 29:46.8
2. Kian Sullivan (U20): 30:57.5
3. Owen Cruz-Abrams (U20): 31:17.8
Women’s 10K
1. Lina Sutro (senior, 21-49): 31:54
2. Hailey Swirbul (senior, 21-49): 33:14.1
3. Rachel Bachman Perkins (senior, 21-49): 36:28.6
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