(A Fundraiser for the High School Nordic Team)
Join us for an exciting ski event on a world-class FIS-homologated course just minutes from downtown Traverse City! Whether you’re a competitive racer or simply looking to enjoy the trails at your own pace, the Raptor Rush has something for everyone. All adult races are freestyle, the 5km Junior Race is Classic and the Middle School Race is freestyle.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026
Location: Hickory Hills Ski Area, Traverse City, MI
Schedule: Course Inspection: 7:30–8:30 AM. Registration: Online registration open until Jan 9 at 8 PM. Day-of registration available.
Race Options
10km Adult Race: 3 laps on the FIS-homologated course (weather permitting). - Freestyle
5km Junior Race: A challenging course for high school athletes. - Classic
2.5km Middle School Race: A fun, competitive option for younger skiers. - Freestyle
10km Untimed Tour: Enjoy the trails while supporting the Vasa Raptors. - Freestyle
Registration includes a Hickory Hills Day Pass.
Costs
Due to the variability of the trail conditions at Hickory Hills we are making this a donation based event. We are committed to putting this event on in any form, but we may need to adjust distances and formats to suit the conditions and open trails. This is a fundraiser for the Highschool team, so we hope that participants feel comfortable making a donation.
We are required to collect $15 to cover day use passes for Hickory. If you have a Hickory Hills Season Pass you are not required to make this payment.
Divisions
Adult (19+): Men, Women
High School: Boys, Girls
Middle School: Boys, Girls
Schedule
7:30–8:30 AM: Bib pickup in the Hickory Hills Lodge
9:00 AM: 5km Junior Race
9:05 AM: 10km Race, with the Tour starting directly after (line up together)
10:00 AM: 2.5km Middle School Race
Awards
Celebrate post-race at the Wax Shed with awards for the top 3 finishers in each division and the overall Men’s and Women’s winners.
Course Info
Trails may change depending on weather conditions. We will most likely run the low-snow course unless conditions improve.
Why Race the Raptor Rush?
Support the Vasa Raptors High School Nordic Team while enjoying a fun and memorable race experience. Your participation directly helps young athletes pursue their skiing goals.
Questions? Email tcvasaraptors@gmail.com
Don’t wait—register today and join the fun!