Ten years ago, local resident and Rotary Club member David Barkhausen took up cross-country skiing somewhat seriously in his early 60’s.  While still living in Illinois, he began participating in several races in northern Michigan and Wisconsin.   This year, deciding to do this with a larger purpose, he contacted the Barnabas Center to suggest how his skiing might help raise money for the organization.

He is reaching out to his fellow Rotary Club members and other friends and acquaintances asking them to consider supporting Barnabas based on his race participation.

“I’m very lucky to be able to do this at my age,” Barkhausen said.  “This is a way to express my gratitude.”

These events consist of 6-8 races over seven weekends from late January to early March, a few of them as long as 50 kilometers (30 miles), including the American Birkebeiner in northwest Wisconsin that draws international participation.

Those willing to support David’s efforts might do so on a per-mile basis or with a specified amount.  The total distance for all races, if all goes well, would likely be 100-150 miles.

In the absence of Florida snow, David has been training on “roller skis” near his home on the south end of the island. He was recently spotted on the Amelia Island Trail by Jamie Reynolds, Barnabas President & CEO, who was inspired by what she saw and is enthusiastic about his idea.

You can support David’s skiing and Barnabas by clicking here!  Be sure to select David Barkhausen Cross Country skiing as a fund option. For those interested in a per-mile donation, we will have the results ready to post in mid-March. 

For anyone seeking more information, check back on the Barnabas Center website and social media and we will update David’s activities.  David can also be reached directly at dbarkhausen50@gmail.com.