FSx, the newly formed Fischer/Swix cross country race program, along with Team Today, an independent fundraising program run by athletes of the US Ski Team and Think Racing, a nonprofit organization that promotes and develops amateur athletes, have joined forces in an effort to change the current financial conditions of cross country skiing in the US.

“We all have the same goal – to help raise the level of the sport. Our methods are not identical, but similar enough that we actually complement each other,” said Pete Vordenberg, Assistant US Cross Country Ski Team Coach. “Think Racing and Team Today are non-profits working to support athletes. FSx is a professional racing team also working to support athletes. Together we have created an opportunity for sponsors and donors to become involved in ski racing and we are a growing force for athlete and program support.”

With the recent news of USSA budgetary problems leading to a cut back on programs, there couldn’t be a better time to rally together to improve the situation. Within this new partnership, athlete development is the goal. The mission of Think Racing, Team Today and the FSx program is to increase the support for developing American cross country skiers. “Within our programs, 85% of every dollar goes to support athlete travel and training expenses,” said Todd Carter, President of Think Racing. “I am excited to be working with Fischer, because they are not only the leading brand in the sport, but also the leader in giving back to the sport.”

The FSx program is the only professional race team in America that is made up entirely of domestic athletes. Eli Brown, Fischer Race Director commented, “I like that we have high level foreign athletes competing here in the US. This increases the competition, but USST needs our help!” In an effort to help raise the level of US Skiing, FSx will provide direct support to only American Athletes.

The FSx Athletes and Ambassadors have a mission; to find additional opportunities to raise awareness and support for cross country ski racing in America. Already FSx Elite Team members have been identifying potential donors for not only the FSx program but Team Today as well.

“As a group, we (FSx, USST –XC, Think Racing and Team Today) have taken responsibility to get things to the next level. Instead of complaining and just taking what we’ve come to expect, we quit shrugging our shoulders and put them to the wheel. This is our opportunity and we’re not going to let it slip away.” said Vordenberg.