After more than five decades of serving the Fairbanks community, the iconic family-owned store, Beaver Sports, has officially transitioned to new ownership. On September 17, 2023, Greg Whisenhant and his family announced the sale of the store to local entrepreneurs Kristen and Nick Janssen.
“It’s bittersweet in a way because it’s been a family legacy for several years,” said Greg Whisenhant. “All members of the family have been involved with it at one point or another.” The store, located on College Road, has operated since 1972, when Greg’s father, Jim Whisenhant, started selling canoes from their garage to support the Lathrop High School cross-country ski team during the summer months.
Legacy of Growth and Community Engagement
Over the years, Beaver Sports has expanded significantly. Initially a modest canoe shop, it evolved into a full-scale outdoor sports retailer, offering a wide range of equipment for hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing. The store also provides services such as bicycle and ski repairs, pack fitting, and equipment rentals. Greg Whisenhant, who has managed the store for nearly 30 years, has witnessed its growth firsthand.
The store has played a vital role in the community, hosting numerous local events including a canoe race series and the Beaver Sports Triathlon. Greg noted, “The business couldn’t go into any better hands than the Janssens. They’re very passionate about it and I like that. We’ll see the business continue to thrive and even grow with them at the helm.”
Beaver Sports has been on the market for a few years, with the Whisenhant family prioritizing a buyer committed to continuing its legacy. “We wanted to see the store continue. A lot of people said they wanted us to find someone to continue Beaver Sports because it has become such a pillar in the community,” Greg explained.
Adapting to Change and New Beginnings
The Whisenhants faced challenges over the years, including contemplating a sale in the 1990s before eventually deciding against it. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic further reshaped the business landscape. “Fairbanks was a ghost town,” Greg recalled, reflecting on the early days of the pandemic when many businesses struggled to survive. “A large call to support local businesses helped keep Beaver Sports afloat.”
Despite the hardships, the store experienced a surge in demand as outdoor activities gained popularity during the pandemic. “What better way to keep social distance than to be out in a kayak or on a bike? All of a sudden, we ran out of equipment and couldn’t order new bikes because there was a shortage of all kinds of stuff,” Greg noted.
As the Janssens prepare to take over, they have expressed their excitement about the future of Beaver Sports. Their introduction on the store’s social media highlighted their commitment to the community and their passion for outdoor activities. “Nick is an active participant in the Fairbanks and Alaska-wide endurance scene, both as an athlete and a race director,” the post stated. “Kristen is a passionate triathlete, spending time at the pool and on her bike.”
The transition marks both an end and a new beginning. The Janssens are set to carry forward the rich legacy of Beaver Sports while adding their own energy and vision. The store will celebrate this new chapter with a welcome party from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, honoring Greg Whisenhant’s retirement and welcoming the new owners.
