FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SISU '19: Record Turnout!

Thanks in large part to Mother Nature and the Lake Superior snow guns, the 10th Annual SISU Ski Fest had a record number of registrations (680), with 628 participating on race day. Conditions were excellent with ample snow, firm deep tracks, and temperatures hovering around 24 degrees. Times were fast and it seemed that everyone was smiling all day long.

Kiitos to all who came together to make SISU '19 memorable as a perfect day of racing. Perfect due to the weather, the snow, the sportsmanship, the volunteers, the crowds, the course, the food, the awards, and the ten years of memories collectively celebrated.

Conga se Menne regaled us with their unique brand of reggae-inspired tunes at the Historic Ironwood Theatre Saturday night, and many skiers were spotted celebrating at SISU Sponsor Cold Iron Brewing throughout the afternoon and evening.

We hope to see you all next year (January 10-12, 2020) for the 11th annual SISU Ski Fest (always the weekend before MLK weekend). Until then enjoy the rest of your ski season.

Racer Death Confirmed

We are devastated to report that one of our racers, Mike Fauerbach, passed away on-course during the 15K Heikki Lunta race. He was found unresponsive 0.5K from the starting line by other skiers, several of whom halted their own race to render aid. Trained volunteers and race officials responded immediately with CPR and an AED, then transported him by rescue sled to a waiting ambulance.

Mike was a retired lawyer from Hurley, WI who skied at ABR almost every day and was very active in ICORE (Iron County Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts) and other silent sports advocacy groups. The entire community will miss his dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to public service. Our hearts go out to Mike's family and friends.

We are deeply grateful to all those that stopped to help. We would still like to talk with everyone that saw or assisted in this tragic situation, so if we have not spoken to you directly, please contact Ski Patroller Melanie Fullman at [email protected] or 307-761-8299.

Jackie Powers
Race Director and Media Consultant