Event Recap 2025 - Provo, Utah

The SFL 2025 event at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center was an amazing experience for everyone who attended. The event featured challenging skiing on the Olympic trails, surrounded by beautiful scenery and plenty of sunshine. The apres ski sessions were filled with engaging and fun topics like travel adventures, athletic competitions, guide dogs, and even backyard chickens.

Evening activities were just as exciting, with a lively line dancing class, a silent auction that was anything but quiet, a trip to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir rehearse and record their music, and a dance featuring the Gina Marie Osmond band.

Norway night exceeded all expectations with a delightful array of surprises this year. The evening began with an engaging exhibit set up by members of a nearby Sons of Norway lodge. Located just outside the banquet hall, the exhibit provided attendees with a fascinating glimpse into Norwegian heritage and culture, setting the tone for the festivities to follow. As we all settled in for a delicious salmon dinner, we learned some exciting news: two surprise visitors from Norway had joined the celebration. Svein Thorstensen and Reidar Storvik, renowned figures from the Ridderrenn, made an appearance, much to the delight of many attendees who recognized and admired them. Their presence added a special touch of familiarity and warmth to the evening, making it even more memorable. In fact, there were 9 Norwegians in the Norwegian contingent this year, all but one who have been at past SFLs. And the surprises didn't end there. We were also joined by a distinguished guest: Anniken Huitfeldt, the Ambassador from Norway to the United States. She arrived on Thursday evening and actively participated in the remainder of the event.

Everyone enjoyed the comfort and excellent service provided by the Marriott Hotel and Conference Center throughout the event. Special recognition goes to Haley Amasiu, the Event Manager for the Marriott, for her exceptional dedication, responsiveness, and attention to detail. She was always there when we needed her.

The success of the SFL event is truly due to the hard work and dedication of the many volunteers who make the SFL organization great. I want to especially thank the event planning committee, with a big shout-out to Nancy McKinney Milsteadt, vice-chair, for her invaluable contributions.

I am also grateful to our special guests from Norway, and Ambassador Huitfeldt, for joining us to help celebrate 50 years of Ski for Light. Their presence underscores the heritage, friendship, and support we share with Norway and the Ridderrenn and made the entire event especially memorable. So here's my toast to the first 50 years of Ski for Light and to the new friendships and memories of the next 50 years!