STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK
Chances are no one has ever dressed as elegantly kicking and gliding their way around the Nordic tracks at Quigley.
AnneMarie Schmidt and her daughter Hazel sported authentic Norwegian dresses as they took part in the recent Inga Lami with father Ryan and brother Jed. The dress was AnneMarie’s grandmother’s, given to AnneMarie for her confirmation.
“It has a lot of history and when I get the opportunity to wear it, I do,” said Schmidt, who skied the course with Alli Beatty.
Vamps founder Muffy Ritz resurrected the Inga Lami, which she had held a few times in the past, and dozens of skiers turned out in Norwegian sweaters and Viking garb, vying for numerous prizes offered by The Elephant’s Perch and enjoying a potluck at the end of their ski.
The Inga Lami, founded in Norway, is the sister race to the world-famous Birkebeiner and honors the mother of young King Haakon who was carried to safety on skis during a civil war in Norway. Ritz directed entry fees towards The Advocates since, she said, Inga was a single mother with a kid and no support.
Advocates Director Tricia Swartling said her organization provides counseling, shelter and other types of support to 800 clients a year. It’s open 24 hours a day seven days a week.
To see more watch today’s Eye on Sun Valley video.