Q: This race seems expensive compared to other races I've done in town. Where does my money go?
A: When coming up with a price, we first looked at what 24 hour races typically cost, and then used typical participation numbers to come up with a budget. Then we added up all the costs associated with this race to figure out the cheapest registration fee we could muster:
We are also operating on a break-even budget. If we happen to have any proceeds, they will go directly to NSAA in support of their winter AND summer efforts in maintaining our ski trails. (If you haven’t bought a trail pin- this is another way to support the trails you’ve been using!).
We do offer discounts for students, military and our Junior Nordic racers. And remember, it is cheaper to register EARLY and ONLINE. The closer to the event it gets, the more expensive the registration fee.
- insurance & permits, credit card fees & online service fees, trail user fees
- portable toilets, race course marking materials
- race bibs, awards, FOOD (we provide dinner & breakfast)
- GROOMING - trail grooming is our largest expense; the courses are groomed more than once!
We are also operating on a break-even budget. If we happen to have any proceeds, they will go directly to NSAA in support of their winter AND summer efforts in maintaining our ski trails. (If you haven’t bought a trail pin- this is another way to support the trails you’ve been using!).
We do offer discounts for students, military and our Junior Nordic racers. And remember, it is cheaper to register EARLY and ONLINE. The closer to the event it gets, the more expensive the registration fee.
Q: Why 6K laps? I’ll get bored!
A: First, this is an event for everyone and pretty much everyone can ski 6K. Due to the nature of the trails at Kincaid, these courses will be a relatively challenging 6K.
Second, we will be having 2 courses to compensate. This allows for 2 things: 1) less mental boredom with the course and 2) allows for the other course to be regroomed and set up for the next six hours. You won’t have 18+ hours of skiing on sugar as the course gets skied in. There’ll be some other fun contests involved during the race- to be announced closer towards the race (think hot laps at certain hours, costumes, etc.).
Third, each course will be skied backwards the second time we use it, so it's really like you get FOUR courses - a change every 6 hours. WOW.
Third, each course will be skied backwards the second time we use it, so it's really like you get FOUR courses - a change every 6 hours. WOW.
Q: What’s in it for me?
A: A chance to challenge yourself under safe conditions- you’ll never be stuck in the middle of nowhere on a bonk. A chance to hang out with awesome people from the skiing community. A chance to try out demo gear on the course in conditions that you’ll actually use it in. Have we mentioned our generous sponsors? We’re talking FREE wax support, FREE coffee all night, FREE raffle every 3 hours on the hour (present and awake to win). Plus more- still working out a lot of details.
Q: Why so late in the season? Will there be snow?
A: When looking at the ski race calendar we found that this is the earliest race we could do without interfering with other NSAA or Besh Cup events. The plus side is that there will be more daylight and warmer temps. in March than in January or February. When it comes to snow, I’m sure we’re all aware that during any month in the year a race can be canceled due to lack of snow- whether it be in December from not enough snow to January from the rain. It’s always a risk. We’re typically skiing well into April on the trails here in Anchorage. We’re always keeping our fingers crossed just in case!
Q: What if I’m under 18?
A: If you’re under 18 you’ll need a parent/guardian to sign the liability waiver. Team captains will be responsible for all members under 18 on their team. If your entire team is under 18 then a parent/guardian will be required to be your team captain for all race issues, and will be responsible for your team. We would also like an ‘adult’ to be present at all times for your team. If it’s an issue, please contact the race directors.
Q: Who is directing this race?
A: In cooperation with the NSAA, Chet Fehrmann and Megan Piersma are co-directing this race. Megan is the Arctic Bicycle Club’s Mountain Bike Race Director, and is an avid skier and biker (of all sorts). Chet is a veteran of many ultramarathon events, having traveled to Europe as well as the lower 48 for 24-hour races and other ultramarathons (mountain bike, road bike, and x-c skiing). This duo combines the knowledge of what it takes to put on the race as well as what it takes to participate.
Q: What if I have other questions regarding this race?
A: Contact the race directors- they will be happy to give you straight answers and try talking you into coming out and being a part of the fun!
