FasterSkier

Tag: Birkie Warriors

  • Seeking Birkebeiner Warriors, Inga & Prince Haakon

    Seeking Birkebeiner Warriors, Inga & Prince Haakon

    Birkie warriors in action at the American Birkebeiner. (Photo: American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation©Netz)

    (Press release)

    Skiers Needed to Re-enact Historic Birkebeiner Journey at Birkie 2018

    Hayward, Wisconsin (November 6, 2017) – In February 2018, an estimated 13,000 cross-country skiers will gather in Cable and Hayward, Wisconsin to take part in Birkie week ski events. The Slumberland American Birkebeiner is North America’s largest cross-country ski race and the signature event of Birkie week festivities. In homage to the race’s roots, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is seeking a trio of cross-country skiers to portray two Birkebeiner warriors and Inga in the 44th American Birkebeiner Ski Marathon slated for February 24, 2018.

    With a nod to the past, the American Birkebeiner selects a trio to portray Birkebeiner warriors, Torstein & Skervald, and Inga, mother of Prince Haakon. The three characters played a pivotal role in Norwegian history when in 1206, amid civil war, the two Birkebeiner warriors, so called for their protective birch bark leggings, skied through the treacherous mountains and rugged forests of Norway smuggling Prince Haakon, the Norwegian King’s son, to safety. Norwegian history credits the Birkebeiners’ bravery with preserving the life of the boy who later became Norway’s King.

    The three skiers reenact the historic flight on wooden skis and in full period costume along the entire 55K classic cross-country race course. While on the trail, the trio serves as Birkie Ambassadors, engaging other skiers and spectators along the way. The dramatic journey culminates when Inga, Torstein, and Skervald ski up and over the American Birkebeiner International Bridge and down Hayward’s snow-covered Main Street amidst cheers from spectators and skiers alike. It is a true celebration of the legacy and tradition of the race.

    Past participants who have portrayed Inga, Torstein, and Skervald, had this to say about their memory-making experience:

    “Portraying Skervald at the Birkie was a wonderful way to celebrate this spectacular race, this beautiful sport, and my Norwegian heritage. The warm response and connection with fellow skiers and spectators was far more than I expected. I highly recommend others submit their applications to become warriors and Inga – it’s an unforgettable, joyful experience!”

    – Steve Long, Duluth, MN (Skervald)

    “The energy and enthusiasm I received throughout the weekend was amazing. Standing at the top of the bridge, with the adorable “Baby Haakon” on my back, looking down Main Street with people cheering and toasts being raised, will forever stand hairs up on my arms. It was a magical moment. It was a Birkie like none-other, and truly a way to celebrate the heritage and joy of the Birkie experience.”

    – Jen Pearson, Duluth, MN (Inga)

    “I felt honored to portray Torstein and I loved sharing my enthusiasm for the American Birkebeiner. Skiing up Main Street with the prince, Skervald and Inga, made for a very memorable day. It was an unforgettable experience.”

    – Bruce Derauf, Duluth, MN (Torstein)

    Skiers interested in this amazing experience are encouraged to register with the Birkie no later than November 30, 2017. All details and registration information are available at http://www.birkie.com/live/warriors-and-inga-contest. Interested parties may contact the Birkie office at 715-634-5025 or birkie@birkie.com.

    American Birkebeiner
    Inga & Birkebeiner Warriors Contest Details

    • This historic re-enactment requires skiing the Birkie Classic 55K on wooden skis, and wearing the historic costumes provided by the ABSF.
    • The Warriors & Inga trio will serve as “ambassadors on the trail,” encouraging both skiers and volunteers along the course route.
    • The warriors will carry a baby doll along the course until Main Street where they will pick up a real infant “Prince” before skiing the last two blocks with Inga to the finish line.
    • Entrants need not provide a young child to portray the baby Prince Haakon, however, the ABSF is open to the trio providing their own Prince Haakon (infant).
    • The group will also make appearances at other events during Birkie race week, February 22-25, 2018.
    • All three skiers – two warriors and Inga – must sign up as a group rather than individual skiers.
    • Entries must first demonstrate their skiing ability, then their passion, sense of tradition, and why skiing in these roles would be of importance to the entrant.
    • Each contest winner will receive a free Slumberland American Birkebeiner or Kortelopet race entry for 2019.
    • If you ski as a warrior or Inga you will receive credit for completing the race.
    • The contest application deadline for the 2018 Warriors & Inga contest will close at 11:59 p.m., November 30, 2017.
    • Details and registration available at: http://www.birkie.com/live/warriors-and-inga-contest
    • Questions? Email birkie@birkie.com or call 715-634-5025.

    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 has grown to encompass a year- round lifestyle that provides healthy, active events for thousands of outdoor fitness enthusiasts of all levels. From the iconic Birkie ski race, to the Birkie Trail Run & Trek, and the Fat Bike Birkie race – the world’s largest fat bike race, the ABSF and the Birkie Trail attract skiers, runners, bikers, trekkers, and hikers, from casual day-trippers to elite superstars. The Birkie embodies a healthy active lifestyle. The Birkie Trail is a fitness destination and mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Ski. Run. Bike. Live! Visit www.Birkie.com to learn more.

  • Birkie Seeks Warriors, Inga and Prince Haakon

    American Birkie Inga and Prince Haakon Press Release for American Birkie 2017
    American Birkie Inga and Prince Haakon (Photo: American Birkiebeiner Ski Foundation)

    (Press release)

    Skiers Needed to Re-enact Historic Birkebeiner Journey at Birkie 2017

    Hayward, Wisconsin (November 7, 2016) – In February 2017, an estimated 13,000 cross-country skiers will gather in Cable and Hayward, Wisconsin to take part in North America’s largest and greatest cross-country ski race, the Slumberland American Birkebeiner. In homage to the race’s roots, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is seeking a trio of cross-country skiers to portray two Birkebeiner warriors and Inga in the 44th American Birkebeiner Ski Marathon slated for February 25, 2017.

    With a nod to the past, the American Birkebeiner selects a trio to portray Birkebeiner warriors, Torstein and Skervald, and Inga, mother of Prince Haakon. The three characters played a pivotal role in Norwegian history when in 1206, in the midst of civil war, the two Birkebeiner warriors, so called for their protective birch bark leggings, skied through the treacherous mountains and rugged forests of Norway smuggling Prince Haakon, the Norwegian King’s son, to safety. Norwegian history credits the Birkebeiners’ bravery with preserving the life of the boy who later became Norway’s King.

    The three skiers reenact the historic flight on wooden skis and in full period costume along the entire 55K classic cross-country race course. While on the race course, the trio serves as Birkie Ambassadors, engaging other skiers and spectators along the way. Inga, Torstein, and Skervald finish with a bang as they ski down Hayward’s snow- covered Main Street amidst cheers from spectators and skiers alike. It is a true celebration of the legacy and tradition of the race.

    In 2016, Inga, Torstein, and Skervald, all hailed from Duluth, MN. Here is what they had to say about their historic experience.

    “Portraying Skervald at the 2016 Birkie was a wonderful way to celebrate this spectacular race, this beautiful sport, and my Norwegian heritage. The warm response and connection with fellow skiers and spectators was far more than I expected. I highly recommend others submit their applications to become warriors and Inga – it’s an unforgettable, joyful experience!”

    – Steve Long, Duluth, MN (2016 Skervald)

    “The energy and enthusiasm I received throughout the weekend was amazing. Standing at the top of the bridge, with the adorable “Baby Haakon” on my back, looking down Main Street with people cheering and toasts being raised, will forever stand hairs up on my arms. It was a magical moment. It was a Birkie like none-other, and truly a way to celebrate the heritage and joy of the Birkie experience.”

    – Jen Pearson, Duluth, MN (Inga 2016)

    “I felt honored to portray Torstein and I loved sharing my enthusiasm for the American Birkebeiner. Skiing up Main Street with the prince, Skervald and Inga, made for a very memorable day. It was an unforgettable experience.”

    – Bruce Derauf, Duluth, MN (2016 Torstein)

    Skiers interested in this amazing experience are encouraged to register with the Birkie no later than November 30, 2016. All details and registration information are available at http://www.birkie.com/live/warriors-and-inga-contest. Interested parties may contact the Birkie office at 715-634-5025, Ext. 2 or birkie@birkie.com.

    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 has grown to encompass a year round lifestyle that provides healthy, active events for thousands of outdoor fitness enthusiasts of all levels. From the iconic Birkie ski race, to the Birkie Trail Run & Trek, and the Fat Bike Birkie race – the world’s largest fat bike race, the ABSF and the Birkie Trail attract skiers, runners, bikers, trekkers, and hikers, from casual day-trippers to elite superstars. The Birkie embodies a healthy active lifestyle, is a fitness destination and mecca for outdoor sports enthusiasts, and offers a series of best-in-class race opportunities. Ski. Run. Bike. Live! Visit www.Birkie.com to learn more.

    American Birkie 2017 Inga and Prince Haakon
    (Photo: American Birkie Ski Foundation)

  • Meet the 2014 Birkie Warriors and Inga

    Ryan Harden, one of the winners of the 2014 American Birkebeiner Warriors & Inga Contest
    Ryan Harden, one of the winners of the 2014 American Birkebeiner Warriors & Inga Contest

    (Press release)

    Congratulations to Ryan Harden, Erik Julsrud, and Jennifer Julsrud

    Please join the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation in congratulating the winners of the 2014 American Birkebeiner 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 41st year on February 22, 2014. This year’s group consists of Ryan Harden of Carlton, MN; Erik Julsrud, of Duluth, MN; and Jennifer Julsrud of Duluth, MN.

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

    Erik and Jennifer Julsrud, Winners of the 2014 American Birkebeiner Warriors & Inga Contest
    Jennifer and Erik Julsrud, winners of the 2014 American Birkebeiner Warriors & Inga Contest

    The roles of the two Warriors, Torstein and Skervald, will be played by long-time Birkie skiers and friends Ryan Harden and Erik Julsrud. These two historic warriors rescued Prince Haakon during the Norwegian Civil War in 1206. Jennifer Julsrun, Erik’s wife, another 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 the 54-kilometer Birkie Classic Trail, on wooden skis, in full Warrior and Inga costumes, while encouraging their fellow skiers along the way. Each year, those judges are none other than the two groups of skiers who took on these roles the previous two years.

    Strong and Passionate Citizen Skiers!

    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.

    Erik Julsrud and Ryan Harden have each skied 15 Birkies together, Erik skiing each one classic and Ryan usually skiing skate, but also getting on classic skis, including wooden ones, for recreation. Jennifer Julsrud has skied 5 Kortelopets and one Birkie, which she skied classic. Each applicant each showed solid finish times in these events.

    The two Warriors ski the entire Birkie Classic race course. 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

    Comments from the Winners

    Jennifer Julsrud:

    “Ryan is the energetic optimist, Erik’s the even-keeled wise one, and I have a take on the word persistence. Together we’re a good Warrior Inga team. I’m honored to be able to portray such a strong woman in history. For Erik and Ryan, this is a dream. We’re so excited to inspire everyone from racers to spectators. We can’t wait for Birkie week and race day!”

    Erik Julsrud:

    “Often when I ski through the woods with my dog, I wonder what it was like to be a Birkebeiner. Now I get to be one. Ever since my first Kortelopet I’ve wanted to be one of the Birkie Warriors.

    Ryan Harden:
    “Thee Birkie is a family tradition which represents wellness, respect for the outdoors, and the spirit of northern Wisconsin, and I am excited to be a part of it.”

    A Story of Family, Friends, and Birkie Tradition

    Here is the entry essay provided by this year’s winning group, presented by Ryan Harden:

    “Growing up in Northern Wisconsin instilled in me a love and respect for the Northwoods. Many weekends are spent at our family cabin near Cable fishing, biking, hunting, and, of course, skiing. In high school, I originally participated as a Birkie spectator and skier in the Citizen’s race. My friend Erik, who I met on our first day of college in 1991, lived in Norway as a child, studied Norwegian in college, and has a father who skied the Norwegian Birkebeinerrennet. In spite of this heritage, I still needed to talk him into skiing our first Kortelopet while graduate students in 1996.  That was our first and last Kortelopet. Since that time, we have skied every Birkie together – the 2014 Birkie will be our 16th.

    “The Birkie has become an annual tradition for us. Through marriages, children, jobs, we have always found time time to ski the Birkie. Erik’s wife, Jennifer, who will ski as Inga, recently won her age group as she skied the Kortelopet classic.  We were filled with pride as we watched all four of our kids participate in the Barnebirkie, including Erik’s son, ‘Haakon.’ The Birkie has evolved from an annual individual endurance event to a weekend festival for friends and family.

    As citizen racers, from ski races to marathons to the Fat Tire Festival, neither of us has ever dropped out of a race. Erik is indefatigable on classical skis and though I usually skate the Birkie, I skied the 2003 Birkie with no training on a pair of borrowed, waxless skis. I still regularly use the wood skis I bought second-hand in 1995 to classic ski the trails in Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. Our ability to finish this race on wood skis is unquestionable.

    “For us, the Birkie is a celebration of that tradition, wellness, respect for the outdoors and the spirit of Northern Wisconsin.  As the race and our friendship have evolved, they will continue to do so and we cherish the memories of Birkies past, embrace the present Birkie and look forward to the Birkies of the future.

    “This past year we both celebrated our 40th birthdays, as did the Birkie. Though average skiers, we accomplish this goal on an annual basis through perseverance, dedication, and appreciation for tradition. I believe we embody the dedication which Torstein and Shervold have come to represent. We would be honored to represent these historic warriors.”

    Origins of the Birkebeiner Warriors & Inga Legend

    The two Viking warriors were called “Birkebeiners” for the protective birchbark 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 Birkie 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 skate 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 10,500 other skiers, 2,000 volunteers, and more than 20,000 spectators from around the world. 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 the Birkie event for everyone.

    “Please join us in congratulating and welcoming this year’s Warriors and Inga!” said Ben Popp, Executive Director of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. “We’re looking forward to another great Birkie and together celebrating our rich heritage as cross country skiers, friends, and families on Februrary 20-23.”

    Learn more about the Birkie Warrior & Inga Contest at www.Birkie.com. For any questions, email media@birkie.com or call 715-634-5025. 

    Thank You to Our Sponsors, including SWIX, Title Sponsor of the Birkie Ski Events, Feb. 20-23, 2014, as well as New Moon Ski & Bike, FITS Socks, Gu Energy, Hammer Nutrition, Marshfield Clinic – Hayward Center, Timber Ford, and dozens of manufacturers of quality cross country ski equipment, gear, and apparel, as well as many professional services.

    SKI . RUN . BIKE . LIVE! For information about year-round Birkie events, visit www.birkie.com, email birkie@birkie.com, or call 715-634-5025.

  • American Birkebeiner Opens 2013 Warrior-Inga Contest

    American Birkebeiner Opens 2013 Warrior-Inga Contest

    The “Birkie Warriors” of the 2012 American Birkebeiner. (ABSF photo)

    (Press release)

    Enter for a Chance to Ski the Historic Re-Enactment of the Original Birkebeiner!

    This annual contest is now open for entries. The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is searching for three cross country skiers to depict the two Birkebeiner Warriors and Inga, the mother of baby Prince Haakon, at this year’s 40th annual American Birkebeiner ski race. Each year a trio is selected to ski the 54 kilometer journey from Cable to Hayward, WI, re-enacting–on wooden skis and in full costume–the historic rescue of the Prince more than 800 years ago. This year’s American Birkebeiner ski race takes place on Saturday, February 23, 2013.

    * The deadline for submitting entries is November 15, 2012.
    Winners will be announced on December 15.

    The Role of the Warriors and Inga at Birkie 2013

    The group of three skiers selected will dress in authentic period clothing and ski on wooden skis to depict the historic event (see “A Brief History” below). They will also serve as ambassadors on the trail, encouraging skiers along the way. On race day the two Warriors ski the entire 54K Classic Birkie race course. Inga may choose to ski either the same 54K Classic or cut off to ski the 23K Kortelopet course. Either way, she will re-join the Warriors to Ski the final two blocks up Main Street to the finish line.

    The group will also make appearances at other events during Birkie race week, like Thursday’s Welcome Ceremony on Main Street and the Barnebirkie children’s event earlier that day.

    A Brief History 

    Birkie Warriors at the 2012 start line. (ABSF photo)

    The two Viking warriors being portrayed, Torstein and Skervald, were called “Birkebeiners” for the protective birch bark leggings they wore. They skied more than 50 kilometers through rugged mountains and forested terrain to smuggle the infant son of King Syverresson and Inga of Vartieg from Lillehammer, Norway, to safety in the town of Trondheim, during the Norwegian Civil War.

    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.

    This historic rescue inspired the creation of three ski marathons: The Birkebeinerrennet in Lillehammer, Norway, launched in 1932 and skied on the same route as the famous rescue; the American Birkebeiner, launched in 1973 when the late Tony Wise looked to his Norwegian roots to create a high-profile event for Telemark, his ski lodge in Cable, Wisconsin; and the Canadian Birkebeiner, launched in 1985 in Alberta, Canada.

    “The re-enactment has become a great tradition that our skiers, volunteers, and spectators look forward to every year,” says Ned Zuelsdorff, Executive Director of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. “For our 40th year especially, this re-enactment plays a very special part in the Birkie race and in the festivities during the week leading up to Saturday. The contest itself has become one of the highlights of the Birkie year.”

    Special Benefits of Skiing as the Warriors and Inga:

    _ A Free Entry the Following Year
    Each winner will also receive a free 2014 Birkie or Korte race entry.

    _ Race Credit
    If you ski as either a Warrior or Inga, you will receive full credit for completing the race.

    _ The Experience of a Lifetime!
    Our past Warriors and Ingas tell us over and over again that skiing the Birkie in these
    historic roles is one of their most cherished experiences. Part of that, they say, is the
    feeling on the trail, encouraging other skiers and being part of the Birkie in a whole new
    way. Sking on traditional wooden skis and taking on the roles of these characters that
    brought the first Birkie into being has added a whole other dimension to their Birkie
    experience.

    Comments from 2012

    __ From Darald Bothun, 2012 Warrior “Skervald”:“It was an huge honor to represent the Birkie by carrying out the Norwegian tradition of saving the future king. The spirit of the Birkie was always felt. Spectators and skiers were constantly cheering for us. It was one of the most inspiring days of my life, and to share it with family and friends made it extra special!”

    “Also,” he says, “Barry and I are doing the half marathon Nordic Trek at the Birkie Trail Run & Trek on September 22. We want to smell the oaks!”

    __ From Barry Knapp, 2012 Warrior “Torstein”: 
    “I continue to be humbled and honored for the experience of being a Birkie Warrior for the American Birkebeiner. The enthusiasm and energy that arose from our fellow skiers at each rest stop, along the trails, and those days preceding race day filled us with appreciation for the whole Birkie skiing community. Also, the locating, cleaning, pine taring, and waxing of the old wooden skis in preparation for the Birkie was a labor of love; it renewed my respect for the original Norwegian birch legging warriors. Thanks!”

    __ From Kristin Bothun, 2012 Inga:
    “I have been blessed with many amazing opportunities in my life. Being given the opportunity to represent Inga at the Birkie has been one of these extraordinary experiences. As Inga, the Birkie journey was not only only fun and exhilarating, but humbling and honoring. I skied the most beautiful (and challenging) Birkie trail dressed in a scarlet red cape, bearing birch-skin leggings and wooden skis.

    “Not only was I inspired by the warriers (my father as well as a dear family friend), but I was motivated by all of my fellow skiers, heroes in their own right. The exhilaration on and off the Birkie trail was phenomenal throughout the entire weekend, from the streets of Hayward to the hallways of Telemark Lodge.

    “‘Hiya, Hiya, Hiya’! Thank you to the American Birkiebeiner for allowing me to be a Queen for the day!”

    .     .     .     .     .

    HOW TO ENTER THE 2013 CONTEST

    1. Form a group of two Warriors and an Inga
    2. Complete the Online Entry Form – Click Here
    3. As part of that form, describe why the members of your group are qualified to ski as the Warriors, Torstein (TOR-stine) and Skervald (SHER-vol), and Inga

    Entries must first demonstrate your skiing ability then your passion, sense of tradition, and why skiing in these roles is important to each of you.

    The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation will supply the Warrior and Inga costumes. Each skier must supply his or her own wooden skis. You may but do not need to provide a young child to portray the baby Prince Haakon, to be carried by one of the Warriors or Inga the two blocks up Main Street to the finish.

    Click Here to access the online entry form. The deadline for entires is November 15. 

    The judges for this year’s contest will be the Warriors and Inga winners from 2011 and 2012 Birkies. The winning group will be announced on December 10, 2012.


    A Look Back

    Past Five Birkie Warriors:

    2012:  Darald Bothun and Barry Knapp, both from Rochester, MN
    2011:  Gale Otterholt and Marv Franson, both from Eau Claire, WI
    2010:  Brothers David Nelson, Medicine Lake, MN, and Grant Nelson, Duluth, MN, skied
    the re-enactment as a family with David’s wife, Josie, as Inga and their son Karl
    as the Prince
    2009:  Jeff Cummisford, Waukesha, WI, and best friend, Richard Pierce, Verona, WI
    2008:  Brothers Thom Gerst, Coon Rapids, MN, and Gary Gerst, Maple Grove, MN

    Past Five Birkie Inga and Baby Prince Haakon:

    2012:  Kristin Bothun, Mankato, MN, daughter of Warrior Bothun, and Nikolai Fornear 
    2011:  Gretchen Lindgren, St. Cloud, MN, and her grandchild Finnley
    2010:  Josie Nelson, Medicine Lake, MN, and son Karl
    2009:  Lyndsey Lewis, Fort Collins, CO, and son Piercen
    2008:  Gail Moede Rogall, Madison, WI, and son Bjorn

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