Watch ski jumpers compete at Norge club

At noon Sunday, Sept. 19, ski jumpers from around the country and Canada will gather once again to try to claim rights to one of the most prestigious titles in American ski jumping, Norge Ski Jump Champion.

Richard Tonkin of the Canadian ski team will be on hand to try to outjump some of America's top aces in the sport. Tonkin has represented Team Canada for several years. If he is to capture top honors, he will first have to conquer some major obstacles.

A few of those obstacles will include being able to outjump local favorites Al Brown, Kevin Bickner, Conner Jacobsen and Norge's next Olympic hopeful, Michael Glasder.

These skiers have racked up thousands of miles traveling from one competition to another throughout the summer, fine tuning their skills and improving their distances week by week.

The September competition is the perfect time for "fair-weather fans" who like to avoid the chill of winter. Food and beverages will be sold on-site, as well as souvenirs. Parking at the Norge facility is free.

Norge Ski Jump is at 100 Ski Hill Road, just two blocks north of Route 14 in Fox River Grove. Admission is $10 in advance at many area merchants in Cary, Barrington and Fox River Grove; $15 at the gate. The gates open at 11 a.m.

For details, call Norge at (847) 639-9718 or (847) 630-4328, or visit norgeskiclub.com.