The Big Nansen: The History of Ski Jumping in New Hampshire with Scott Halvorson

08/28/23 • 42 min

The Big Nansen Ski Jump

Region: Berlin, The Great North Woods

The Nansen Ski Club was founded in 1872 and is one of the oldest ski clubs in the United States. The club is named after Fridtjof Nansen, a Norwegian explorer, scientist, and humanitarian. Between 1936-1938, the Big Nansen was the world’s tallest ski jump and was the site of the first ever ski jumping Olympic trials in 1938 and the FIS World Championships in 1939 which attracted more than 25,000 spectators who traveled to the Great North Woods navigating small windy backroads and snow trains. More than 87 radio stations broadcasted the event live. The jump eventually hosted four U.S. National Ski Jumping Championships, a North American Championship, Eastern Championships, and numerous international competitions before holding its last event in March of 1985.

In 2017, former World Champion ski jumper Sarah Hendrickson, who has family in Plymouth, NH, decided to join the effort to revive the Big Nansen. She convinced her sponsor, Red Bull Energy Drink, to re-deck the jump for one “Last Leap.” On the morning of March 4th, 2017, Hendrickson launched off of the Big Nansen, symbolizing the beginning of a new era for the jump. Even now, with restorative efforts, enthusiasts say the jump is one of the scariest they’ve ever experienced—it sways with the wind!

Read more about Hendrickson’s jump
In this episode of the 603podcast, Dan Egan sits down with guest Scott Halvorson to discuss the history and culture of the Big Nansen Ski Jump. Scott Halvorson is a member and the treasurer of the Friends of the Nansen Ski Jump Committee. He is also the grandson of Alf Halvorson, who oversaw construction of the jump back in 1937-38.
Tune in for more on the Big Nansen and ski jumping in New Hampshire.

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The Big Nansen Ski Jump

Region: Berlin, The Great North Woods

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Previous Episode

Dave Cropper: Surfing in New Hampshire and Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Shop (Seacoast)

Dave Cropper is a born and bred New Hampshire beach bum. As owner of Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Co., in North Hampton, NH—which he has owned since he was 19, Cropper is a local expert on NH surf history and culture. In this episode of the 603podcast, Cropper shares with Dan Egan how the sport of surfing has exploded with the availability and affordability of wetsuits, boards, and the accessibility of surf forecasting and live wave cams.

Folks come from far and wide to experience NH’s mild winters, consistent surf, and relatively warmer days. When there is a good swell, folks gather from across the Northeast, sometimes all the way from Montreal. The surf culture in New Hampton is also multigenerational. You can often find folks of all ages out on the water. North Hampton has a year-round surf community, and Cropper attests that there is “nothing like the good days at home.” Much like skiers in New England, surfers in New Hampshire appreciate a special day on the water because perfect conditions are infrequent but amazing when they come.

In this episode, Cropper shares the trialing story of his building catching on fire, the closing of his shop, immense community support in saving the store, and what the future holds for the surf shop. “The only certain thing is uncertainty,” says Cropper. After the first summer of COVID, surfing boomed in the granite state, as well as local interest in paddleboarding. Since then, there has been a strong enthusiasm from surf veterans and new surfers alike on the New Hampton shore and in the Cinnamon Rainbows store.

“A wave comes from thousands of miles away, and you’re meeting it as it washes on the beach,” says Cropper.

Cropper shares with Dan some of his favorite parts of his surf community and also some tips for those just getting started in the sport.

Why should people surf in North Hampton?

North Hampton beaches boast sandy bottoms, point breaks, accessible parking along highway 1A, and an incredible community at the beach. One thing Cropper loves about the North Hampton surf scene, is that people are always willing to help. People will offer tips, mentorship, and education, and recognize their responsibility to pass on the knowledge of those who showed them the ways of the waves.

What are some tips for learning how to surf?

1. Take a lesson- learning to surf with an experienced surfer will help you identify hazards, make smarter decisions, and learn the fundamentals of what to do and where to be.
2. Pick the right day- ask your local shop and do your research. Will the waves be appropriate to learn? Will the weather be comfortable?
3. Choose the right board size- Ask a shop owner for help. You want a board big enough to catch a ride and small enough to maneuver with your skills.

Check out Ralph’s Pic of the Week for updates, blogs, photos, wave cam footage and more on the North Hampton surf culture.
For more information on New Hampshire surf culture and Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Co., tune in to the full episode with Dave Cropper on the 603podcast. You can also visit https://www.cinnamonrainbows.com/.

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Next Episode

The Balsams: Les Otten on the History and Revival of an Iconic New Hampshire Resort (Great Northwoods Region)

The Balsams: Les Otten on the History and Revival of an Iconic New Hampshire Resort

Name: Les Otten

Region: Dixville Notch, Great Northwoods Region

Les Otten is the former CEO of The American Skiing Company with a lifelong career and passion for the New England ski industry. In 1971, Otten’s professional trajectory began as a lift mechanic where he worked his way through the ranks and began a fruitful career in ski area ownership and philanthropy. He has an eye for opportunity and a commitment to quality which has led him to his present day venture in northern New Hampshire.

In 2014, Otten embarked on reopening and reviving The Balsams, a year-round destination in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire. His efforts are pointed towards preserving the history and community of this unique location while creating a recreational hub of accessibility and inclusion. The views aren’t too bad either.

“The community wants to see mountains developed intelligently and doesn't want a giant or an over-expansion,” says Otten.

In this episode of the 603podcast, Otten delves into his trials and triumphs in business and the culmination of his learned process of bringing back The Balsams. His vision plans to revive this rural region and share The Balsams’ unique New England charm with everyone who wishes to experience it.

Why should people visit The Balsams?

There are extensive options of year-round activities for everyone on the 11,000 acres of wilderness. “We can all sleep in the same space, we can all eat in the same restaurants, but we can all go off in our different directions during the day," says Otten, "all without ever leaving the property."
Fun facts about the Balsams

• Largest ski resort on the East Coast

• Access to the US/Canadian 1,000-mile snowmobile “Superhighway”

• Donald Ross designed 18-hole Golf Course

• Mountain lakes for boating, swimming, and fishing

• Miles of maintained trails for biking, hiking, and designated recreational vehicles

• Fitness Center and Balsam Baths Nordic Spa

• Aerial Adventure Park

• Performing Arts Center and festivals

• Marketplace filled with unique local vendors

For more information, plans, and updates on The Balsams visit https://thebalsamsresort.com/ and tune in to the full episode with Les Otten on the 603podcast.

Produced by: Sammy Blair
Mixed & Mastered by Logan Watts
Written and Directed by: Dan Egan
Hosted by: Dan Egan
Sponsored by:
Mad River Coffee Roasters, Waterville Valley Resort, Jean's Playhouse and Ski Fanatics

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For more information about the 603podcast visit 603podcast.com