ST. CLOUD - Norwegian heritage and cross-country skiing were celebrated at Riverside Park on Sunday for the 7th annual Sons of Norway Barnelopet.

Even with cold temperatures and blowing snow, dozens of kids aged 3-13 braved the elements to ski around the park. All participants received a medal at the free event.

Free ski equipment was provided by the Central Minnesota Youth Ski Club. Nicholas Snavely is a coordinator with the Club, he says the event is a great way to introduce kids to skiing.

"We enjoy the event because the kids get to try cross-country skiing for the first time," Snavely says, "that's what it's all about, it's about the kids."

Children and families also had a chance to eat Norwegian food, enjoy music and talk with Vikings in the warming house. Andrew Grosberg with the Sons of Norway was dressed up as a Viking, he says it was great meeting and teaching the kids Norwegian history.

"It's just great because you have the kids out here who probably come to do the skiing and then they also get to learn something," Grosberg says.

The Central Minnesota Youth Ski Club is a group that meets once a week through the Spring at Riverside Park. Additional information on the group can be found on their website. 

 

7th Annual Sons of Norway Barnelopet
(Dan DeBaun, WJON News)
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