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From the FasterSkier archive — posts syndicated from athletes’ and coaches’ own blogs between 2004 and 2012, kept online as published. Current coverage is at fasterskier.com.

Author: American Birkebeiner

  • Birkie Trail Run Festival & USATF Half Marathon Trail Championship Results

    2017 Birkie Trail Run Marathon podium finishers. (Photo: American Birkebeiner Foundation © Randolph)

    (Press release)

    Birkie Trail Run Festival & USATF Half Marathon Trail Championship Finish with Podiums from Coast to Coast!

    Birkie Trail Run Festival Continues to Grow & Attract Runners Nationwide

    Hayward, WI (September 30, 2017) – Runners and trekkers were welcomed with perfect temperatures, sunny skies, and cool autumn breezes at Birkie Ridge, Seeley, WI, for the 16th Annual Birkie Trail Run Festival and USATF Half Marathon Trail Championship race. With a record field of over 1200 runners in the day’s events, participants were amped up for the festival which included an ultra-marathon, marathon, marathon relay, half marathon, 5K, 10-mile Nordic trek, and fun run for kids.

    Birkie Half Marathon & USATF Half Marathon Championship Race

    The Birkie half marathon proved to be the most competitive and exciting event of the day as it played host to the USATF Half Marathon Trail Championship. The appeal of the National Championship race enticed participation from some of the best elite trail runners from across the U.S. The elite field didn’t disappoint.

    Joseph Gray – USATF National Half Marathon Trail Champion (Photo: American Birkebeiner Foundation © Randolph)

    Joseph Gray, Colorado Springs, CO, blew through the finish line amongst the cheering crowds at Birkie Ridge. The 33-year-old emerged from the forested trail and into the final stretch with Justin Grunewald, Minneapolis, MN, not far in his rearview mirror. Gray finished with a time of 1:10:11, with Grunewald, age 31, on his heels at 1:10:51. No stranger to the top step on the podium, Gray has amassed 13 U.S. National titles.

    “It was a dream come true to run on so many miles of grass. I was amazed at the Birkie Trail course, it was heaven out there,” said Gray, after collecting his USATF National Championship award. “I really dug the course, there was awesome energy, it was well marked, lots of enthusiasm from spectators along the way. It was a great day.”

    12.4 Mile – USATF Half Marathon Trail Champions – Men

    • 1st Place – Joseph Gray, Colorado Springs, CO – 1:10:11
    • 2nd Place – Justin Grunewald, Minneapolis, MN – 1:10:51
    • 3rd Place — Tyler Sigl, Seymour, WI – 1:13:03
    Ashley Brasovan – USATF National Half Marathon Trail Champion (Photo: American Birkebeiner Foundation © Randolph)

    Twenty-six-year-old Ashley Brasovan ripped it up on the trail and flew across the finish line with a time of 1:18:30. While not a stranger to running in the mountains, this was Brasovan’s first trail run.

    “When I’m going to compete, I’m going to run hard. You just go out and see whose day it is going to be. I really wanted to podium today, it was a really great day,” said Brasovan. “Everyone has been super friendly and laid back, the race was well run, spectators were great, running my race was just the cherry on top. I’d love to come back next year,” Brasovan continued.

    12.4 Mile – USATF Half Marathon Trail Champions – Women

    • 1st Place – Ashley Brasovan, Westminster, CO – 1:18:29
    • 2nd Place – Dani Moreno, Santa Barbara, CA – 1:23:40
    • 3rd Place – Amber Kranz, Boise, ID – 1:28:58

    Saturday’s running events started early with the Ultra race (100 kilometers) at 5:30 am. Ultra marathon runners left Birkie Ridge with headlamps aglow as they made their way into the woods and the beginning of their journey on the Birkie Trail. The Ultra runners, proving their endurance and determination, were the first to start and last to finish their event. 26 brave souls started the race, with the first runners finishing over 11 hours later. Hayward, Wisconsin’s own Allison Parr, ran her first ever ultra marathon and placed a solid third in the women’s division with a time of 14:54 (unofficial time).

    Birkie 100 Kilometer Ultra Marathon Champions – Men

    • 1st Place – Brad Birkel, Middleton, WI – 11:38:00 (unofficial time)
    • 2nd Place – Matthew Bower, St. Paul, WI – 11:54:00 (unofficial time)
    • 3rd Place – Tom Kelby, Webster, WI – 14:48 (unofficial time)

    Birkie 100 Kilometer Ultra Marathon Champions – Women

    • 1st Place – Heather Norton-Bower, St. Paul, MN – 13:49 (unofficial time)
    • 2nd Place – Megan Blaszak, Marquette, MI – 13:55 (unofficial time)
    • 3rd Place – Allison Parr, Hayward, WI – 14:54 (unofficial time)

    The robin-egg-blue-sky-day continued with a variety of events for the hundreds of running and trekking enthusiasts in the festival. While the breeze was cool, the pace was hot for the following competitors:

    Birkie 24.8 Marathon Champions – Men

    • 1st Place – Andy Elvester, Minnetonka, MN – 2:52:53
    • 2nd Place – Alex Kasparek, Superior, WI 3:15:04
    • 3rd Place – Andrew Miller, Milwaukee, WI 3:39:41

    Birkie 24.8 Marathon Champions – Women

    • 1st Place – Michelle Pratt, Albany, NY – 3:33:20
    • 2nd Place – Carissa Laack, Wausau, WI – 3:58:23
    • 3rd Place – Mara Klein, Saint Peter, MN – 3:59:46

    Birkie 5 Kilometer – Men

    • 1st Place – Joshua Halverson, Cameron, WI – 18:54
    • 2nd Place – Joachim Marjon, Rochester, MN – 19:12
    • 3rd Place – Jason Slining, Ironwood, MI – 20:35

    Birkie 5 Kilometer – Women

    • 1st Place – Nancy Hobbs, Colorado Springs, CO – 22:51
    • 2nd Place – Louisa Ward, Woodbury, MN – 24:29
    • 3rd Place – Stella Meza, Lac du Flambeau, WI – 24:29

    Additional results for age-class and relay events are available at www.Birkie.com.

    All running and trekking events took place on the scenic and rolling hills of the Birkie Trail and single-track sections of the CAMBA (Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association) trail system. The festival was rounded out with live music, great food, Birkie Brew-Ski craft beer, CXC experiential truck, and the Dive for the Dirt obstacle course for kids.

    The 2018 Birkie Trail Run Festival is slated for September 29, 2018.

    The Birkie Trail Run Festival is sponsored by: Salomon – Title Sponsor Birkie Trail Run Festival; CARLSON MD – Presenting Sponsor Marathon; FITS – Presenting Sponsor Marathon Relay; HydraPak – Presenting Sponsor Half-Marathon; The Rivers Eatery – Presenting Sponsor 100K Ultra-Marathon; Corner Deli – Post-Race Food & Beverage; GU – Official Energy; NUUN – Official Hydration; Hayward Area Memorial Hospital & Waters Edge – Presenting Sponsor: Dive for the Dirt.

    About the American Birkebeiner® Ski Foundation and Birkie® Events

    Located near Hayward and Cable, Wisconsin, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is known for its signature American Birkebeiner Ski Marathon held each February. Today, the Birkie brand has grown to encompass a year-round lifestyle that provides healthy, active events for thousands of outdoor fitness enthusiasts of all levels.
    Birkie. Ski. Run. Bike. Live! Visit www.Birkie.com to learn more.

    About the USATF – USA Track & Field

    USA Track & Field (USATF) is the National Governing Body for track & field, long distance running and race walking in the United States. USATF encompasses the world’s oldest
    organized sports, some of the most-watched events of Olympic broadcasts, the country’s No. 1 high school and junior high school participatory sport and more than 30 million adult runners in the United States. For more information, visit: usatf.org

    About Salomon – Designed for Freedom –

    For more information about Salomon, visit www.Salomon.com

  • Birkie Canceled; ‘BirkieStock 2017’ Offered as an Alternative

    Birkie Canceled; ‘BirkieStock 2017’ Offered as an Alternative

    The new Birkie trailhead as seen on Friday afternoon in Cable, Wis. The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation announced Friday that it was canceling Saturday’s race due to a lack of snow. (Photo: Birkie webcam)

    (Press release)

    Hayward, WI (February 24, 2017) – After days of unseasonable weather, rain, and a predicted snow storm front missing the Hayward and Cable areas, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation regretfully announces the cancellation of the 2017 American Birkebeiner, Kortelopet, and Prince Haakon cross-country ski races.

    The American Birkebeiner is North America’s largest cross-country ski race which runs from Cable to Hayward, Wisconsin, finishing on the snow-covered Main Street of Hayward. After record high temperatures and over 1.5 inches of rain, race officials closed the Birkie Trail from Cable to Hayward 8-days ago to preserve the trail for this week’s originally planned races. Shortly thereafter, Lake Hayward was deemed unsafe for use in the ski-race which caused race officials to focus contingency plans on the Birkie Trail from the American Birkebeiner Trailhead, east of Cable, WI, to the OO Trailhead, east of Seeley, WI.

    After discussion with a wide constituency of key stakeholders including emergency and medical officials, trail crew, and others, the ABSF board determined the greater ski course was unsafe for a timed race. Areas of the Birkie Trail were lacking snow, icy, or simply unsuitable for use. As always, the safety of event participants is first and foremost in the minds of ABSF officials, followed by a goal of creating the best possible participant experience for all. Both things are weighed and considered with each and every decision the ABSF makes.

    “While we know Birkie, Korte, and Prince Haakon skiers are disappointed with this announcement, I am confident that the ABSF staff did everything within their power to preserve the trail for a safe race,” said Ben Popp, ABSF Executive Director. “We know that the Birkie is so much more than a race to so many. Birkie skiers are passionate about the overall experience. It is in that Birkie Fever spirit that we’re excited to celebrate the love of Nordic sports with skiers and spectators alike at the American Birkebeiner Trailhead. It’ll be a Birkie celebration like none-other!”

    In lieu of the annual iconic ski race, the ABSF looks forward to celebrating the inaugural use of the American Birkebeiner Trailhead and start area with BirkieStock 2017 – a Birkie celebration unlike any other!

    Skiers, spectators, friends, and the general public are invited! Beginning at 9:30am on Saturday, February 25, 2017, buses will begin transporting riders from the Como Parking Lot, off of Highway 63 and south of Cable, WI, to the American Birkebeiner Trailhead. For those anxious to get some time on their skis, the trail crew is creating an estimated 5K loop for skiers to ski once, twice or as many times as they’d like! Live music begins at 11:45am and plays to 5:00pm. Festival goers can visit the Birkie soup tent, try a Birkie Brew-ski, watch the Nordic World Championships on the jumbo screen, grab a brat, visit the Birkie Store, and more! Plus, we’ve moved the On Snow Ski & Bike Demo from Sunday, February 26, to Saturday, February 25, so guests can try out the latest ski gear and fat bikes!

    More details will be announced on www.Birkie.com at 1:00pm today.

  • American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Seeks Development Director

    American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Seeks Development Director

     

    ABSF American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation

    Have a background in Development and interested in joining the Birkie Team?

    Job Title: A.B.S.F. Development Director

    Organization Summary:  The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated, as reflected in the Birkie Mission Statement, to hosting one of the world’s best cross country ski events, the American Birkebeiner, maintaining one of the nation’s premier recreation trails, and promoting healthy lifestyles for people of all ages.

    Attributes: This position is responsible for facets of fundraising, membership, outreach, sustainer programs, honor wall, and grant submissions. The DD must be self-motivated, outgoing, organized and structured. A passion for sport and a strong team player is critical.

    Position Activities:

    • Create, oversee and execute ABSF fundraising initiatives and campaigns
    • Create, oversee and execute ABSF membership programs and related components
    • Create, oversee and execute Trail Friends and Birkie Honor Wall programs
    • Build, grow and further develop ABSF endowment and planned giving programs
    • Work with Executive Director to develop key organization messages for stakeholder audiences
    • Research, complete and submit grants that offer alternative funding sources to Birkie capital projects
    • Work with employment team on survey development and feedback mechanisms for foundation
    • General Foundation duties including taking notes at all ABSF Board of Directors meetings, acting as the primary point of contact for all Foundation related questions and coordinating all aspects of ABSF Board annual elections
    • Promote collaboration with other events and organizations, community stakeholders and foundations
    • Work with staff on integration of Foundation into all aspects of ABSF activities, events and programs
    • Data Management – Manage data of Foundation and fundraising audiences and messages
    • Content Distribution – Develop, manage and operate innovative content for foundation members and fundraising outreach
    • Work closely with Operations Team

    Required Skills: The following skills are required for the position, with a strong, proven work background in all areas.

    • Strong writing ability with a focus on message-oriented communications, including ability to both write and edit
    • Strong public speaking ability
    • Outreach and partnership building experience with a strong emphasis on audience and message management
    • Self-sufficient, with ability to develop long-term strategies and manage projects to completion
    • Business computer skills (Word, Excel, email, Web, etc.) with at least basic understanding of Web and graphic management applications (Basic HTML, WordPress, Photoshop, etc.)
    • Background in use of Web as communications tool including understanding of social networking (Twitter, Facebook, etc.), media distribution (YouTube, etc.) and blogging
    • Positive, upbeat presence with others, including both co-workers and outside contacts

    Compensation: Position will be salaried (based on experience) with a health insurance reimbursement, retirement benefits and paid vacation/holiday days available.

    Responsible to: The position reports directly to the Executive Director, but will have strong interaction with other team members.

    This job description outlines the primary roles and responsibilities of the position. Other duties may be assigned.

    Interested candidates should direct cover letter, resume, list of three references and at least one work example to:

    ben.popp@birkie.com

    Or mail to: 

    Ben Popp, Executive Director

    American Birkebeiner
    P.O. Box 911
    Hayward, WI 54843

    Complete applications are due by October 16, 2015, 4:00 p.m.

    Complete job description (PDF version)

  • Birkie Seeking Media/PR/Communications Director

    Birkie Seeking Media/PR/Communications Director

    (Photo: James Netz)
    (Photo: James Netz)

    Job Title: Media & Event Promotion Director (MPR)

    Organization Summary: The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated, as reflected in the Birkie Mission Statement, to hosting one of the world’s best cross country ski events, the American Birkebeiner, maintaining one of the nation’s premier recreation trails, and promoting healthy lifestyles for people of all ages.

    Attributes: This position is responsible for all external communications, providing communications leadership and strategies, message and delivery management, content development and management, and education. The MPR must be self-motivated, outgoing, organized and structured. A passion for sport and a strong team player is critical.

    Position Activities:

    • Work with Executive Director to develop key organization messages for stakeholder audiences.

    • Manage communications delivery systems to convey messages to key audiences including electronic and printed materials

    • Manage company advocacy programs (like Skiers for Cures)
    • Manage and develop innovative PR programs
    • Work with employment team on survey development and feedback mechanisms.
    • Promote collaboration with other events and organizations, community stakeholders

    • In conjunction with leadership, develop content to convey Birkie messages to the entire Birkie community. Current content includes eNewsletters, company communiqués, general news release content and company web and social media content

    • Develop standards for staff created content to convey Birkie messages to all audiences. • Oversee all content to ensure consistent messaging and delivery to key audiences

    • Develop innovative communications delivery systems to continually evolve using the most modern, efficient and impactful systems

    • Provide leadership, guidance and hands on support to all company staff in Web and social media content distribution

    • Educate and support staff on Birkie messaging and delivery systems
    • Writing – Develop impactful and targeted written communications content
    • Data Management – Manage data for communications audiences and messages

    • Content Distribution – Develop, manage and operate Innovative content distribution systems including Website, email, blogs and other means

    • Work closely with Sponsorship team on collaborative projects

    • Work closely with Development team on collaborative projects

    • Work closely with Operations team on messaging and content distribution

    • Web Management – Management of communications and content on website

    • Planning – Assist department leadership in developing communication strategies

    • Support – Provide general support in all areas as needed including at major Birkie events

    • Oversee all media and related needs for Birkie events

    • Develop and/or assist creation and production of ads, posters, and related promotional collateral, for use in print and online

    Required Skills: The following skills are required for the position, with a strong, proven work background in all areas.

    • Strong, proven writing background with a focus on message-oriented communications, including ability to both write and edit

    • Background working in communications or other area with strong emphasis on audience and message management

    • Self-sufficient, with ability to develop long-term strategies and manage projects to completion

    • Business computer skills (Word, Excel, email, Web, etc.) with at least basic understanding of Web and graphic management applications (Basic HTML, WordPress, Photoshop, etc.)

    • Background in use of Web as communications tool including understanding of social networking (Twitter, Facebook, etc.), media distribution (YouTube, etc.) and blogging

    • Background working with Internet content management systems
    • Background working with bulk email distribution systems
    • Ability to educate other other staff, colleagues or peers
    • Positive, upbeat presence with others, including both co-workers and outside contacts

    Responsible to: The position reports directly to the Executive Director but will have strong interaction with other team members.

    This job description outlines the primary roles and responsibilities include but not limited to the position. Other duties may be assigned.

    Interested candidates should direct cover letter, resume, list of 3 references and at least 1 work example to ben.popp@birkie.com or mail to: Birkie, P.O. Box 911, Hayward, WI 54843 by April 17th, 2015.

    PDF version of job posting here

  • American Birkebeiner Seeks Race Operations Director

    American Birkebeiner Seeks Race Operations Director

    American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation
    Now Accepting Applications for Position Of:
     
    Race Operations Event Operations / Race Director
     
    Applications Due by May 1
    Our longtime Race Operations Director, Shellie Milford, has announced that the 2015 American Birkebeiner will conclude her career with the Birkie. While she is looking forward to a well-deserved retirement, we are now looking to fill a position that she has run with consummate skill and wisdom for more than 20 years.
    This is a key, full-time, year-round position at the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. We are interested in hearing from individuals from a variety of event planning and operations backgrounds who can bring those skills and that experience to the Birkie.
    We hope you will assist us in this search by helping us get the word out about this position opening and also sharing it directly with anyone you know who may be interested.
    See details here about the positions and where to send a resume and cover letter:
    Warmest Regards,
    The Staff and Board of Directors of
    The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation
  • American Birkie Accepting Applications for Executive Director Position

    American Birkie Accepting Applications for Executive Director Position

    American Birebeiner - logo

    The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to hosting one of the world’s best cross country ski events, the American Birkebeiner, maintaining one of the nation’s premier recreation trails, and promoting healthy lifestyles for people of all ages. The American Birkebeiner is made up of several events in addition to the 50K and 54K Birkie marathon races and the 23K Kortelopet race.

    Position Description

    The Executive Director leads the day-to-day operations of the ABSF under the policies determined by the board and generates revenue for the Foundation. Qualified candidates will be able to demonstrate successful fundraising experience, financial management, and public relations abilities. Excellent human relation skills with the ability to promote the ABSF and inspire and manage both staff and volunteers are essential to this position. Other preferred skills include: leadership, project management, sales, oral and written communication, supervision, and experience in the Nordic skiing community. This position is based in Hayward, Wisconsin.

    How to Apply

    A letter of interest that addresses the above qualifications and resume must be submitted by March 8, 2013, to Sue Scheer, President of the Board of Directors of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation.

    Email To: Sue Scheer at sfscheerbrook@yahoo.com.

    American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation 

    Executive Director Responsibilities

    Reports to: Board of Directors, ABSF

    The Executive Director is the face of the ABSF. He/She will promote the vision and mission of the ABSF, act as a strong advocate for silent sports, and be responsible & accountable for all aspects of the foundation.

    Responsibilities:

    Execute the established Mission Statement, By-Laws, Policies, and Administrative Practices of the ABSF as designated by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director will be accountable for overall administration of the organization, including development and direction of all American Birkebeiner events, development and implementation of short and long-term strategies to market, promote, improve and expand all areas of the organization, and to secure adequate funding to ensure the Foundation’s continued success.

    • Provide leadership and direction to the overall organization including race operations, trail management, community relations, sponsor relations, and administrative staff and volunteers.
    • Be the primary figure to fund the organization and its growth through sponsorships, grants, donations, fees, and other fundraising activities.
    • Provide bi-weekly updates and recommendations to the ABSF Board of Directors related to all aspects of the organization.
    • In partnership with the Board of Directors, create, implement & maintain an on-going business plan, including short & long term goals for the ABSF. Ensure Policy and Procedure manuals are established and updated in a timely manner.
    • In consultation with staff and the Board of Directors and Board committees, develop an annual financial plan for revenues and expenditures for review and approval by the Board. Manage human resources, capital, physical assets and general operating expenses in a fiscally responsible manner.
    • Develop and implement programs to market and promote all American Birkebeiner events and stimulate interest, involvement and membership in the ABSF, with the intent of promoting active and healthy lifestyles, and to promote tourism to the area.
    • Act as a liaison between town/county/city Boards and Committees to encourage cooperation and support from these entities for all American Birkebeiner events and the American Birkebeiner Trail system.
    • Monitor state and local activities that may have an impact on the organization or trail system. Take action as needed to foster a positive impact for the organization.

    To view the job posting, click here.

    To read about current executive director Ned Zuelsdorff and his retirement announcement, click here.

  • Two More Ways to Get Birkie/Korte Entries

    1.) FROM NEW MOON SKI & BIKE – Hayward Store:

    2013 Birkie Entries!!!!

    Whoa, they piling up faster than our snow! We now have 3 Complimentary Birkie entries generously donated by our vendors Skhoop Ski Skirts and Vector450 Supplements. Drawing to be held January 29st, 2013. All entry winners are asked to make an equally generous (or even bigger) donation to the Birkie Trail Fund or Birkie’s partner charity, JDRF.org.

    A rare opportunity everyone! – Chris, New Moon Ski & Bike

    Sign up at New Moon Ski Shop in Hayward

    2.) FROM VECTOR450 – Email Address, Below:

    Vector450 Birkie Entry Contest

    As silver sponsors at the Birkie, we have five (5) Birkie/Korte entries to ski in the upcoming 40th annual American Birkebeiner, which we will give away in a draw on Tuesday January 29. Enter by sending us 3 reasons why you should win one of these entries! Entries should be emailed no later than Monday January 28th to info@vector450.com with the subject line “Birkie Contest” . This is great for anyone who missed the deadline, made a last-second decision to ski this year, or would like to join a friend or family member at the event.

    Good luck!

    The Vector450 team

    PS: Remember to connect with us on Facebook/vector450 and follow us on Twitter @igyvector450!

  • Birkie Executive Director Zuelsdorff Announces Retirement

    American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Executive Director Ned Zuelsdorff recently announced he will retire in mid-May 2013. (ABSF photo)
    American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Executive Director Ned Zuelsdorff recently announced he will retire in mid-May 2013. (ABSF photo)

    Ned Zuelsdorff Retires as Executive Director of American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation

     (Jan. 24, 2013 press release)

     

    Ned Zuelsdorff, Executive Director of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, has announced his retirement, effective mid-May 2013. Ned has served as the executive director of the ABSF for the past eight years, starting in 2005. “I have really enjoyed my job with the Birkie, thanks to our staff, volunteers, and our skiers and runners,” said Zuelsdorff.

    Sue Scheer, president of the ABSF board of directors said, “during Ned’s tenure as executive director, he has created many new events, expanded and improved the Birkie Trails, and nearly doubled participation in the American Birkebeiner events.”

    The American Birkebeiner, Kortelopet, and Prince Haakon events alone have grown from 6,000 skiers, to the record number of 10,000 skiers registered for this year’s 2013 event. New events Zuelsdorff has created include the BirkieTour as well as some of the Birkie’s most popular race week events—the Giant Ski, Barkie Birkie skijor, and Birkie Adaptive Events. Additionally, he changed the format of the Birkie Trail Run & Trek event in September, now in its eleventh year, growing it from 125 participants to more than a 1,200.

    All of these events have added to the total number of visitors to the Hayward and Cable area year-round, to participate in these events and enjoy the Birkie Trail and surrounding attractions.

    “Clearly, the long-term effects of Ned’s leadership have created a legacy that skiers and spectators alike will continue to enjoy for years to come,” said Scheer. “Ned has also been a champion of the citizen skier, perhaps one of the reasons that increasing numbers of skiers of all ages and abilities continue to sign up as first-time Birkie skiers then come back as returning skiers.”

    One of Zuelsdorff’s personal passions has been the Birkie Trail itself. From the beginning of his service as executive director, he has worked to extend, improve, and maintain the Birkie Trail system. He has been instrumental, for example, in the vision for and development of the Birkie Classic Trail.

    The board of directors accepted Ned’s resignation at their monthly board meeting on January 21, 2013, “with genuine appreciation and admiration for a job well done.” The board is now in the process of making preparations to secure a new executive director after the 2013 Birkie.

    Said Scheer, “The American Birkebeiner is one of the largest and most recognized cross country ski races in the world. We have accomplished great things and look forward to continuing that tradition for years to come. We have a great staff and a fantastic network of volunteers. We also look forward to finding the leadership that can continue to move the Birkie, now celebrating its 40th year, forward into its next decade and beyond. We are grateful to Ned for his vision, leadership, and setting such a high standard for where we can go next.”

  • BirkieTour Canceled

    BirkieTour-photo
    CANCELED – BirkieTour, Saturday, Jan. 19
    We are very sorry to have to cancel the BirkieTour scheduled for this Saturday, January 19, due to poor trail conditions and skier safety concerns. For more information or if  you were  registered for this event,  please click here for details.
    For questions, please contact the Birkie office at 715-634-5025 or email birkie@birkie.com.

  • Complimentary Birkie Entries via Concept2 SkiErg

    Concept2 Offering Two Birkie/Korte Entries

    (Press release)

    Birkie sponsor Concept2 SkiErg has two complimentary entries for the upcoming 40th annual American Birkebeiner or Kortelopet they would like to pass on to a skier.

    Anyone interested can enter the Concept2 SkiErg drawing, which will take place on 1/24/13. Those interested should email skiing@concept2.com and describe briefly why they would like to ski this year’s Birkie or Korte—why they should be given one of these two entries!

    Hopefully this helps a couple of people who missed the deadline, just decided recently they would like to ski this year, or would like to join a friend or family member at the event.

  • Help a Young Person Ski the Birkie or Korte

    Dave Landgraf, a Birkebeiner Founder (ABSF photo)
    Dave Landgraf, a Birkebeiner Founder

    Ski Strong Foundation

    Dave Langraf in his red "Founder" bib, still starting and finishing strong in the Elite wave of the 2011 Birkie. (ABSF photo)
    Dave Langraf in his red “Founder” bib, still starting and finishing strong in the Elite wave of the 2011 Birkie. (ABSF photo)

    The Ski Strong Foundation is created in memory of Dave Landgraf, a Birkebeiner Founder, whose life was greatly affected by the wonderful sport of cross country skiing. He skied every Birkie from 1973-2011. The name “Ski Strong” was the idea of Emalea Landgraf, Dave’s daughter. At the time of Dave’s bike accident in August, he was wearing his yellow Lance Armstrong Livestrong band. The band remained intact and became a significant reminder of his strength. It is our hope that this foundation will inspire cross country skiers of all ages to embrace winter and the joy in cross country skiing.

    Second Annual Ski Strong Scholarship

    Application Deadline – January 15, 2013

    The Ski Strong Foundation wishes to provide free entries for both the Kortelopet and Birkebeiner races. Any young people wishing to ski either race may apply. The requirements are you must be from the state of Wisconsin, Minnesota, or Michigan and be 20 years or younger on the day of the race. If you meet the requirements, please send an email answering this question: “Why is cross country skiing an important part of your life.” Please answer the question in 200 words or less, indicating which race you plan to ski.

    Email to skistrong2011@yahoo.com by January 15, 2013. After reading your essay, Dave’s family will select a young male and female for each race.

  • Birkie Warriors & Inga Contest Winners Announced

    Chris Lawn (ABSF photo)

    Congratulations to Chris Lawn, Tom Lawn, and Lori House!

    Please join the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation in congratulating the winners of the 2013 Birkie Warriors & Inga Contest. The three cross country skiers will re-enact the 800-year-old legend that inspired the creation of the American Birkebeiner, now celebrating its 40th year. Your 2013 team is Chris Lawn, of Madison, WI; Tom Lawn, of Plymouth, WI; and Lori House, of Madison, WI.

    Lori House

    See photos of the winners on the Birkie Warriors & Inga page at Birkie.com.

    The roles of the two Warriors, Torstein and Skervald, will be played by long-time Birkie skiers Chris and Tom Lawn (Tom is Chris’s dad). These two historic warriors rescued Prince Haakon during the Norwegian Civil War in 1206. Lori House, also a capable and passionate skier, will take on the role of Queen Inga from Varteig, mother of Prince Haakon and a legendary figure in her own right.

    Up for the Challenge

    The contest winners were carefully selected by judges who know exactly what it takes to ski 54 kilometers in full Warrior and Inga costumes while encouraging their fellow skiers along the trail. Each year, those judges are none other than the two groups of skiers who took on these roles the previous two years.

    Tom Lawn

    Strong Skiing Experience

    Each group that enters the contest submits information about how many Birkies they have skied, how many they have skied Classic, and what their times were. They also submit a short essay about their team members. People write about all sorts of things–family traditions, strong friendships made closer by skiing, Norwegian connections, and just their love of cross country skiing and the Birkie. It is a big commitment to ski the full Birkie Classic race on wooden skis while wearing period costumes. Entries must demonstrate the group’s skiing ability plus their enthusiasm for taking on these roles.

    Chris Lawn has skied 17 Birkies and 5 Kortes, with five out of the last five Birkies skied Classic. Tom Lawn has skied 27 Birkies, with four out of the last five skied Classic. Lori House has skied 3 Birkies and 1 Korte, with all three Birkies skied Classic. They showed fast finish times in these races.

    The Warriors ski the entire Birkie. Inga may choose to ski the Birkie or shift to the Kortelopet to encourage skiers on that race course. She would then rejoin the Warriors for the final finish up Hayward’s Main Street. This year the Warriors & Inga will make their entrance onto Main Street, Hayward, early to mid-afternoon to the cheers of thousands of spectators lining the street.

    A Story of Family, Friends, and Birkie Tradition

    Here is the entry essay provided by Chris Lawn for this group:

    “The American Birkebeiner has been a long standing tradition in our family. My parents Tom and Sue learned to ski when they were new parents. My brother, sister and I grew up looking forward to the Birkie each and every year. My Dad and I, along with our family, have never missed a Birkie since we first each toed the line 28 and 18 years ago. Now as a father of 5, I have continued the tradition with my family. We also will have 4 of our 5 children participating in the Barnebirkie in 2013. Every year our children look forward to meeting the Birkie Warriors. They are a symbol of a long-standing tradition, and we would love to re-enact their heroic journey. Our 5th child Kiersten was born this past July – what an honor it would be to have 3 generations of our family skiing down Main Street the day of the Birkie. We have both had some fantastic races over the years, but would love to stride the course on our wooden skis and cheer our fellow racers on!

    “Through skiing we have met so many fantastic people and our dear friend Lori and her family are some of them. Lori, a mother of 3, would make a great Inga. She is newer to skiing than my dad and I, but has also started the Birkie tradition with her family. For the past few years we have made the Barnebirkie a tradition that we do together as families. It has been so fun watching our children grow each year together and hope we are instilling a lifelong love for Nordic skiing in each of them. It means so much to see them all skiing down the same Main Street that a few days later we will also be skiing down.

    “Nordic skiing is a very important part of all of our families. It is a passion that we hope our children will always want to be a part of and that we strive to pass it on to others. Tom spearheaded beginner lessons during his tenure as president of the North Kettle Moraine Nordic Ski Club in Greenbush, and my wife and I oversee the Nordic Kids program at Blackhawk Ski Club in Madison, where Lori’s children also participate.

    “This is a once in a lifetime experience that we would love to share with our families. We hope for it to become our favorite Birkie memory! We would be honored if you would please consider us for the Warriors and Inga! We promise to do our best to carry on this awesome tradition!”

    Origins of the Warriors & Inga Legend

    The two Viking warriors were called “Birkebeiners” for the protective birch bark leggings they wore. They skied more than 50 kilometers through Norway’s rugged mountains and forested terrain, smuggling the infant son of King Syverresson and Inga of Vartieg from Lillehammer to safety in the town of Trondheim.

    The rescued prince became one of the most popular kings in Norwegian history, and the Birkebeiner soldiers became a Norwegian symbol of courage, perseverance, and character in the face of adversity.

    On race day, the two Birkie Warriors and Inga will leave the start gate with the Elite Wave skiers. The rest of the 10,000 skiers will follow every five minutes in alternating skating and classic wave starts. The Warriors and Inga expect to see the majority of those skiers at one time or another along the trail throughout the morning and early afternoon.“They’ll not only re-enact the historic rescue, they’ll inspire 10,000 other skiers, 2,000 volunteers, and more than 15,000 spectators from around the world,” said Ned Zuelsdorff, Executive Director of the American Birkebeiner. “The reaction of seeing the very origin of our event come to life like this is hard to put into words. The Warriors and Inga are one of the highlights of this event for everyone.”

    Learn more about the Birkie Warrior & Inga Contest at www.Birkie.com.

    For more information, email media@birkie.com or call 715-634-5025.