Ski Club to Add Eagles Tailgating at Jan. 1 Fundraiser

Carrying on a long-held tradition, a bevy of water skiers will brave winter’s chill on New Year’s Day – possibly chanting E-A-G-L-E-S – as they fundraise for a Montgomery County camp.

The Port Indian Ski Club will hold its 37th annual Ski Freeze on New Year’s Day. Since it’s also Eagles game day, organizer Brian Birsa is giving football fans and water skiing enthusiasts the best of both worlds.

“We decided to turn Ski Freeze into a giant Eagles tailgate party,” he said, adding that big screen TVs will show the game and tailgating favorites like chili, hot drinks and baked goods will be available for sale.

Besides water skiing, the day features a polar plunge, and a “Parade of Thunder,” featuring the

A-Team motorcycle club, who are organizing a charity ride for the event. This year, the ski club is partnering with French Creek Racers, a triathlon club, who will be hosting a 5K run and a chilly 100-yard swim. The ski club will also hold an auction and raffles, and offer a fire pit and warming hut for skiers.

The day’s contributions will help fund Camp Rainbow Inc.’s week-long overnight summer camp. Each year, the camp provides a camping experience to hundreds of children.

In 2016, Birsa said the ski club raised about $9,000 and hopes to raise even more money in 2017. The camp, which is in Lower Salford Township and operates as a nonprofit organization, provides a camping experience to children ages 7 to 16 each summer.

Anyone willing to sign a waiver and donate can come and water ski, however, space is limited.

“Ideally, you’ll know how to water ski – it’s not a good time to learn,” Birsa said. Spectators are welcome to cheer on the participants, and often come with noisemakers from the previous night’s festivities. In 2016, more than 250 people attended.

“It’s a fun time for spectators and skiers alike, and a great way to start off the New Year along the Schuykill River,” Birsa said.

If you go

The 37th annual Port Indian Ski Freeze will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Jan. 1 at #18 East Indian Lane, located next to the Norristown Boat Club. Skiers must donate to participate. All funds benefit Camp Rainbow Inc. For more information on the event, email Brian Birsa at bbirsa@yahoo.com or visit www.portindianskiclub.org.

For more information, or to donate to Camp Rainbow Inc., visit http://camprainbowinc.com/ and click on the donate button.