Races for all ages and skill levels
The annual VASA Festival of Races drew a huge crowd Saturday morning, all to watch a huge number of racers.
The races started at the Timber Ridge resort in Grand Traverse County. Skiers get to choose from the 12k, the 27k, or the 50k races. The event isn't just becoming legendary in the Grand Traverse area. This year almost 650 racers are here from 19 states and three foreign countries.
There are two more big races Sunday... part of the Gran Traverse Classic. For die hard racers, the 16k and 6k events also qualify for points for the Michigan Cup Series. Racing starts at 9 am.
The VASA races aren't just for the big kids. The Junior VASA lets kids take the trails in a number of races designed for the younger skiers. The races are for kids ages 4-15 who are not part of high school ski programs. Here it's not as much about winning... as it is about finishing the course and just having a good time. And the smiles on the kids faces are evidence that they did just that.
For moms and dads looking to have some fun... they can join in the Valentine's day tour. It starts at noon Sunday and you can ski at your own pace. Valentine's Day donations will benefit the Munson Women's Heart Health Fund.
