Event History

The Snow Express for MS — the prelude to the Vertical Express for MS — began in 1985, when skiing Olympian Jimmie Heuga and ten others set a world record, skiing one million vertical feet during 24 hours in Alyeska, Alaska.

This event raised the seed money to start The Heuga Center, a non-profit that supports people and families living with multiple sclerosis (MS) through educational/wellness programs.

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of that feat, the Vertical Express
aims to establish two new world records, while raising funds and
awareness of The Heuga Center.

The Heuga Center's roots run deep in the skiing world. When Jimmie was diagnosed with MS, it was a blow to the tight-knit racing community. Later, when he established the Heuga Center, the skiing world stepped up to the financial challenge. In May, 1985, friends and associates organized the first Snow Express for MS, a massive fundraiser in Alyeska, Alaska. Ten participants broke records when they skied one million vertical feet in 24 hours. The ski marathon raised $250,000 in seed money for the fledgling Center.

Over the years, Snow Express broadened to include racers of all ages and abilities. It grew to be one fo the premier on-snow fundraising events in North America. Thousands have participated in Snow Express races at 30 different ski areas, raising as much as $1 million per year for the Center.

Although The Heuga Center has now diversified its funding sources, Snow Express for MS — or Vertical Express, beginning in 2005 — continues to raise money, increase awareness about The Heuga Center's work, and maintain a strong connection to the skiing world. Participants enjoy the camaraderie, relaxing atmosphere and fun prizes. But most importantly, they race to make a difference in the lives of people with MS.