By Pete Edwards

Young cross country ski racers from as far away as Pennsylvania and as young as 2 ½ years old participated Saturday afternoon in the Junior VASA. Junior skiers ages 7 and under skied the 1km course. Skiers 8-15 skied the longer and more challenging (but very skiable and user friendly) 2km trail.

As all of the Junior VASA participants cross the finish line they received a North American VASA Championship Medal. The Junior VASA is all about participation. The event is not timed. All finishers are winners. The entry has always been a super value at only $5.00 per skier. VASA goody bag included.

"Junior Vasa skiers will be the Vasa skiers of the future," states Pete LaPlaca, Executive Director of the North American Vasa. "Hopefully they’ll remember the fun they had on skis in this event, and continue the sport for their entire lives. The smiles on these kid’s faces are our reward."

The North American VASA is recognized for its meticulous trail grooming and excellent ski conditions. The Jr. VASA receives the same quality attention. Trail grooming for both Jr. VASA courses were again performed by Timber Ridge Resort and Nordic Center’s grooming experts.

The date for the 2012 North American Junior VASA is Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012.

Kids wanted.

The North American VASA website: WWW.VASA.ORG

* Pictured: 2 ½ year old Brady Thelen and his 2011 North American Jr. VASA Championship Medal

Article courtesy of Pete Edwards, skiwalking.com