Ski jumpers from around the globe will begin arriving in Fox River Grove on or about January 23rd. to begin preparation of one of the most exciting and certainly most daring winter sports ever created.
Norway, Finland, Poland, Canada and Slovenia will all be sending its top ranked ski jumpers in efforts of capturing top honors at North America’s oldest, most prestigious ski jumping competition. The Norge ski jumping competition dates back to 1905. The first two years of the clubs existence the competitions were held in Chicago, first at Humboldt Park and the following year at Reis Park. The annual ski jump competition has never been cancelled .
Slovenia will be making its first appearance ever at Norge. The Slovenian team is ranked one of the very best in the world but they know that if they are to make it onto the medal podium they have a large obstacle to overcome. American ski jumpers have been training at a whole different level than years in the past. Historically the Midwest produces one or two top name jumpers per year. This year however Norge athletes have dominated the podium receiving top honors at almost every ski meet in the country. Led by Norges top rated flying ace Michael Glasder of Cary, IL who is still fighting it out for a spot on the 2014 Olympic Team going to Sochi, Russia, the team is also flanked by repeated champions A.J. Brown and Hunter Smith of Fox River Grove, Casey Larson of Barrington, Ben Kaiser of Crystal Lake and Kevin Bickner of Wauconda.
The jumping will begin on January 25 with a junior competition on all of the jumping hills at Norge consisting of all the younger jumpers under the age of 18. The Senior Meet will take place on Sunday, Jan. 26. This will be the international competition and will include all of the “top guns” in ski jumping. Both days the jumping will begin at noon. On Sunday there will be an opening ceremony. Tickets at the gate are $15; however pre-sale buttons are available at local merchants for $10 if purchased by Friday, Jan. 24. Further ticket information as well as directions can be found at www.norgeskiclub.com or by calling 847/639-9718. Pre-sale buttons are good for both days of competition. Children 12 and under are free!! Parking is also free!!!!
As always there will be concessions such as hot dogs, brats, hot chocolate, pop, etc. available on the grounds. Beer and hot beverages will be available for those 21 and older. No pets are allowed on the grounds for safety reasons and no carry in food or beverage will be permitted.
For those who have never attended a Norge ski jumping competition there are a few points to remember…#1.) This is the largest attended event in McHenry Co. #2.) This events draws the most diverse, international pool of competitors possibly in the state. #3.) You will NEVER encounter such a lively, unique, friendly , family oriented gathering of folks who love the winter outdoors!
