After 53 years of operation, Beaver Sports, a beloved family-owned sports and outdoor recreation store in Fairbanks, has officially changed hands. On September 17, 2023, Greg Whisenhant and his family announced the sale of the store to fellow family members, Kristen and Nick Janssen. This transfer marks the end of an era for the Whisenhant family, who have been integral to the business since its inception.
Greg Whisenhant expressed mixed emotions about the sale, describing it as bittersweet. “It’s been a family legacy for several years,” he said in an interview. “All members of the family have been involved with it at one point or another.” The store was founded in 1972 by Greg’s father, Jim Whisenhant, who began selling canoes from the family garage to support the Lathrop High School cross-country ski team during the summer.
Legacy and Growth of Beaver Sports
From its humble beginnings, Beaver Sports has grown into a comprehensive outdoor action sports store, specializing in a wide array of activities such as hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, and skiing. Over the years, the store expanded its offerings to include gear and clothing for hunting, fishing, and camping, among other outdoor pursuits. It also features a pro ski shop, bicycle and ski repairs, and equipment rentals.
Greg Whisenhant has managed the store for nearly 30 years and shared many memories from its early days. “I can think of many stories when we were starting out and were very small,” he remarked. The store has relocated twice and even expanded operations to Valdez, where Greg’s son, Chris, now oversees the branch.
Beaver Sports has long been a cornerstone of the Fairbanks community, hosting events such as canoe race series, triathlons, and cold-weather training clinics. The store’s mottos, “Beaver Sports is a Fairbanks tradition” and “If you’re active in the outdoors, you’ll feel right at home at Beaver Sports,” reflect its deep-rooted connection to the community.
A New Chapter for Beaver Sports
Although the business has been on the market for a few years, the Whisenhants were selective about the new owners. Greg Whisenhant noted that they received inquiries from potential buyers interested in repurposing the property for uses like schools or office spaces. “We weren’t excited about that,” he stated. “We wanted to see the store continue.” The family ultimately found the right fit in the Janssens, who share a passion for the outdoor lifestyle.
In a statement on social media, the Janssens outlined their commitment to Beaver Sports, highlighting their active involvement in the Fairbanks and broader Alaskan endurance scene. “Nick is an active participant in the Fairbanks and Alaska-wide endurance scene, both as an athlete and a race director,” they wrote. “Kristen is a passionate triathlete, spending time at the pool and on her bike.” Their shared enthusiasm for sports and the community promises to keep the store thriving.
The Whisenhants and Janssens plan to celebrate this transition with a party on September 19, 2023, from 5-7 p.m. This event will honor Greg Whisenhant’s retirement while officially welcoming the Janssens as the new owners of Beaver Sports.
As the store embarks on this new chapter, it remains to be seen how the Janssens will build upon the legacy established by the Whisenhants, but the community can be assured that the spirit of Beaver Sports will continue to thrive.