Traverse City marks 50 years of the North American VASA Festival of Races

The North American Vasa Festival of Races is celebrating its 50th anniversary in Traverse City; the event began in 1977 and the permanent Vasa Trail was formalized in 1991.

The North American Vasa Festival of Races is marking its 50th anniversary this weekend in the Traverse City community. The annual cross-country skiing event began in 1977. Early editions started at Cherry Capital Airport and used varying route layouts. A permanent Vasa Trail was formalized in 1991 and is now managed by the Traverse Area Recreational Trails. Key details: - The festival began in 1977 and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this weekend. - The permanent Vasa Trail was established in 1991 and is managed by the Traverse Area Recreational Trails. - George Lombard, 95, led trail construction after retiring in 1989, managing a $100,000 grant and working with volunteers and donated equipment. - Lombard lost his leg at 19, began cross-country skiing in his 40s, earned a spot on the first U.S. Paralympic cross-country ski team, and competed for four years, winning two of three international races. - Tom Sutter, 77, has participated in every North American Vasa and recalled early airport starts and extreme winter conditions in the event’s early years. - The race now offers multiple distances, including 6K and 50K, and includes Vasa and adaptive skiing categories; Lombard also helped secure a warming shelter on the grounds. Summary: The 50th anniversary highlights a community-built trail system that serves both racers and recreational skiers. The milestone is being observed this weekend in Traverse City as the event continues its multi-decade local tradition.