Torrie Cookman of Marquette leans into a turn to help steer his way down the Lucy Hill track in Negaunee during a competition several years ago. (Escanaba Daily Press file photo)

NEGAUNEE — The Upper Peninsula Luge Club is gearing up for the winter season, and they’ll have opportunities for the public to learn to luge beginning next year.

The club’s public sliding events, running from early January to late February, welcome newcomers to the sport of luge, or returning athletes who want another chance to slide down the track. Differing from the iced tubes (also known as Kunstbahn luge or artificial track) typically shown on television, like during the Winter Olympics, Lucy Hill’s Naturbahn gives sledders a chance to fly down a natural track of unrefrigerated snow lined by boards and snowbanks.

“(Luging) is a great way to make winter more fun,” said Kirsten Matthews, U.P. Luge’s public relations director. “I’d compare it to a step-up from sledding, where you’re able to go further and faster as you learn to control the sled.”

Matthews and her family became involved with U.P. Luge after trying the sport in 2021, and have since become involved with club memberships, volunteering and advocating for luge in the U.P. She also displayed gratitude for the volunteers and sponsors that help support the track, and how none of this would be possible without them, as the organization and track are maintained entirely by volunteers.

The Lucy Hill track, built in 1990 and designed by Swedish civil engineer Per Vinberg, also provides a training ground for national and international naturbahn luge competitors, hosting events such as the upcoming Midwest Junior Championship Race in honor of Fred Anderson on Feb. 22 and the North American Championship Race on March 2. Races are free for anyone to watch.

Helmets, braking shoes, and sleds are available to borrow upon arrival, and the club asks that you come dressed for the weather on the day you’re set to luge. Spectators are welcome to join their sledding companions.

People and businesses can become sponsors for a club member’s membership or helping donate to maintain equipment, waive race fees, purchase medals and host post-race potlucks at no charge. Levels of sponsorships and prices are available on the club’s website.

Public sliding hours will be from 6 to 9 p.m. on Fridays, and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Depending on the weather and track conditions, there is potential for the U.P. Luge Club to have some available luging times at the end of the December.

The clubhouse and Lucy Hill track are located at 230 E. County Road in Negaunee.

Reservations, track condition updates, directions and more information about the luge club can be found on its website at upluge.org.

Abby LaForest can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 548. Her email address is alaforest@miningjournal.net.