Funski 2018 Recap

Is it possible to reinvent a fundraiser that will turn 30 next year? Of course, we have been doing just that for going on 30 years. The 29^th annual Media One Funski, a benefit for Children's Inn, enjoyed great participation and record fundraising for its 29^th edition January 19^th and 20^th at Great Bear Ski Valley.

The snow-block carving contest grew to 16 teams and sponsors from area architectural/design and engineering firms, a 60% increase. Approximately 75 people spent Friday evening outside under the lights coaxing magic from 4' X 4" X 6" snow blocks. Check out all the photos at funski.org.

The downhill ski slalom event also posted record numbers. Over 40 racers tweaked their wax and charged out of the start gate chasing medals and fame as fastest man and woman on skis. A number of very skilled young racers also joined the event racing in skill level and age brackets. This event is growing because of increased membership in Great bear's Wednesday Adult Race League.

The Fat Bike snow race is also attracting a growing number of riders and the word is spreading. 28 riders from Sioux Falls, Vermillion and Sioux City rode the new Pond Loop course with men, women and youth competing for Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals. This event has tremendous growth potential as fat bikes are attracting winter athletes looking for some fun and competition.

Corporate Team tube Races, Kickball, Ziphy Sled, Snowboard Slalom and Rail Jam events rounded out the two-day fundraiser raising $37,000 for the operating Budget of Children's Inn. The 2019 30^th Annual Media One Funski will be the biggest and best ever.