STORY BY HEATHER FOSTER

PHOTOS BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Cross Country Program is hosting its second annual Après Snowmaker Fundraiser on Saturday, Jan.10, at the Sage School Barn in Hailey.

The event hopes to bring together the broader cross-country skiing community in support of both SVSEF XC programs and the community-wide operations that support the Lake Creek Trail System.

The Apres Snowmaker Fundraiser brought together Nordic enthusiasts who enjoyed the chance to interact socially.

“As we step into an Olympic year, we are humbled by the support of this incredible community, which continues to encourage athletes of all ages as they pursue their cross-country skiing dreams,” said Becky Flynn, SVSEF XC Program Director. “Since 1972, the SVSEF Cross Country Program has been committed to shaping not only exceptional athletes, but a culture rooted in perseverance, joy, and connection.

“For our athletes, whether the journey leads to the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics and Paralympic Games or winds around the trails at Lake Creek or Quigley, it’s about far more than a single event—it’s about commitment, resilience and the strength of a community that believes in them. This event supports dreams of world-class success and homegrown victories, all rolled into one.”

SVSEF XC strives to shape the future by supporting and engaging the community through such tangible opportunities as:

Inspiring our valley’s youth to participate and celebrate cross country skiing and the active lifestyle and lifelong sport it presents.

Offering world class facilities that allow athletes to train at the highest levels.

Grooming and maintaining the Lake Creek Trail system, in cooperation with BCRD.

Hosting special events including FIS-sanctioned races that bring the world to Sun Valley, and celebratory gatherings to celebrate the sport, its history, and its traditions.

Presenting guest lectures and instruction open to the broader community.

Serving as a community land partner with the BLM, US Forest Service and BCRD.

Providing logistical and volunteer support for iconic events like the Boulder Mountain Tour.

The Apres Snowmaker Fundraiser will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $150 each and include heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine.

Tickets also include a free entry to the Snowmaker Classic Cross Country Ski Race, a fun event for all ages and abilities hosted by SVSEF XC earlier that same day on the Lake Creek Trails just north of Ketchum.

Raffle tickets are available online for $100 each through midnight Friday, Jan. 9. Winners will be drawn at 7 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Apres Snowmaker for a Salomon Skis/Boots/Poles Package along with a Skida hat set and a six-month membership to Zenergy Health Club & Spa.

Winners need not be present to win.

Tickets for both the fundraiser and raffle tickets are available at https://svsef.org/events/xc-snowmaker-fundraiser/.

The primary event sponsor is Ramsay Solutions, Inc. Supporting sponsors include Salomon, Skida, Zenergy, Idaho Mud, Elephant’s Perch, BCRD and Sun Valley Resort.