Olsen Named Honorary Warrior of Blackfeet Nation

Whitehall resident Stanley Olsen was recently bestowed a rare honor, the title of Honorary Warrior of the Blackfeet Nation. The title gift came as a surprise to Olsen, who had volunteered to help the Blackfeet Nation with their first-ever Skijor Race in Browning, MT.

Contacted for assistance by Skijoring Magazine Editor/Publisher Scotty Ping while working a race in Driggs, ID, Olsen thought it sounded like an adventure he couldn't pass up. After talking to Wendy Bull Child with Blackfeet Manpower that week, he made arrangements and traveled to Browning on March 4th.

Most often Olsen works as a race marshall, a finish judge, or a gate judge at skijor events; this time he enjoyed the race as a technical advisor - there to advise and train competitors.

Twenty-eight teams competed to full grandstands March 5-6.

"The Blackfeet Nation went all out to provide a great racing experience for both spectators and competitors," said Olsen. "The hospitality extended by the Blackfeet Nation was overwhelming."

To Olsen's surprise, he and Ping were asked to join presenters on stage prior to the awards ceremony where they were recognized for their help but also presented with Blackfeet blankets and honorary Blackfeet Warrior titles.

"No higher honor have I ever received. It was humbling," said Olsen. "Thanks go to the Blackfeet Nation, Blackfeet Manpower, Gayle Skunk Cap, Wendy Bull Child, and all the other First Nation members who made this race possible."