Volunteers prep for annual Mat-Su Ski for Women up Government Peak

WASILLA — The Mat-Su Ski Club is gearing up for their annual Mat-Su Ski for Women event, a fundraising trek through the Government Peak Recreation Area next Sunday, February 9.

The public is invited to ski, snowshoe or even ride fat tire bikes to support local women and families in need.

The Mat-Su Ski for Women skiing event is meant to be a fun and laid back trek. It’s untimed and attendees can choose between a 2k or 4k option.

“Everybody should try it,” Mat-Su Ski Club board member Terry Slaven said.

Slaven said there were more participants last year than the year before, and she hopes that trend continues this year.

“We try to grow it each year,” Slaven said.

All proceeds go toward Alaska Family Services in their efforts to prevent domestic violence in the Valley. Slaven said that she’s glad to be a part of a local fundraising effort that supports Valley women and their children.

“It’s pretty rewarding thinking that I can help donate and get some other people to go ski with me,” Slaven said. “We’ll all make a donation and we know the money stays in the Valley, and it helps families.”

In the spirit of the fun atmosphere, attendees are always encouraged to wear costumes during this event. The best costume takes home the Golden Ski Pole.

Slaven said that she’s taking five or so friends with her this year. She said they all plan to wear costumes, and they’re considering a Hawaiian theme. She’s looking forward to a fun-filled afternoon surrounded by new and seasoned skiers alike.

“It feels good to be helping other people just by skiing,” Slaven said.

This event is run entirely by volunteers from Mat-Su Ski Club, a nonprofit organization on a mission to promote cross country skiing across the Valley through events, trail building, grooming, educational clinics and ski swaps.

They aim to improve the overall quality of facility and trails across the community.

Slaven said they also aim to promote healthy living and physical activity for children and adults. She said that events like this are a perfect way to do that. It’s open to men, women and children of all ages.

Ski club volunteers are hosting a community potluck and raffle after the trek. Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish to share.

“It’s just kind of a fun community event,” Slaven said.

Registration opens at 1 p.m. the day of the event, February 9, and the treks start at 2 p.m.

For more information, 907-745-7547, email info@matsuski.org, or visit akafs.org. The event can also be found on Facebook.