The Oosik is hosted by the Denali Nordic Ski Club and is one of the most fun and funky races in Alaska. The course changes every year, but there are three divisions - 10- 25- and 50-kilometers. While competitive skiers definitely participate every year, it's the recreational skiers that have given the Oosik a well-deserved reputation as a great time. Many of the racers dress in costume for the race, and having fun is given high importance among the racers. This year's race is set for noon on Saturday, March 9.

The race is enormously popular and often sells out. Denali Nordic Ski Club caps the race at 800 skiers, and registration is now open, through March 7 or until 800 skiers register.

The race has evolved into a weekend-long celebration in Talkeetna, as all of Talkeetna fills up with racers, spectators and fans. Live music is taking place throughout the weekend at Denali Arts Council and the Fairview.

While the race is a fun way to get into the spring season, it's also an important one for the Denali Nordic Ski Club and skiers in the Talkeetna area. The event serves as the primary fundraiser for the club, and proceeds from the race help the club's volunteers groom, maintain and develop Nordic trails in Talkeetna. It also allows the club to support programs such as the Talkeetna Junior Nordic program. For more information and to register, visit www.denalinordicskiclub.org.

 

Scenes from past Oosik races