Minnesota Skiers Take on Historic Warrior Roles for 2026 American Birkebeiner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 8, 2025 Hayward, WI – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation proudly announces that Katie Hoeg, Peter Enz, and Erik Hoeg have been selected to portray the iconic figures of Inga & the Birkebeiner Warriors during Birkie Week 2026.
Each year, a trio of skiers is chosen to reenact the historic flight of Prince Haakon’s mother Inga and the Birkebeiner warriors Torstein and Skjervald, who played a pivotal role in Norwegian history during the civil war of 1206. The trio skis the entire 54K Birkie classic racecourse on wooden skis and in full-period costume, engaging with participants and spectators along the way. The dramatic journey culminates as Inga, the baby Prince, and the two warriors ski up Main Street Hayward, Wis., amidst cheers, arriving at the finish line in a reenactment that has become a celebrated Birkie tradition.
Katie, Peter, and Erik have been skiing together since childhood, competing and enjoying Nordic skiing through their high school years and into their 30s. Peter has completed 16 Birkies, Erik 13, and Katie continues to be a strong competitor, skiing 20+ kilometer back-to-back days and completing marathons within months of giving birth to her first child.
The trio’s connection to the ski community runs deep. All three first met on the Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School ski team in St. Louis Park, Minn., and their families have long been part of the Birkie tradition. Peter’s father, Richard Enz, and uncle are uberleggers and Erik’s parents, Richard and Molly Hoeg, who have completed multiple Birkies themselves, are active in the ski community as well.
The selection committee was captivated by a heartfelt video submitted by the trio, showcasing their long-standing passion for skiing and community involvement. Watch it here.
Erik Hoeg shared, “We feel truly honored to portray the Birkie Warriors and to contribute our own unique ski history and lifelong passion for the outdoors to the Birkie legacy. This community and tradition continue to inspire us in every stride.”
As Birkie Ambassadors, Katie, Peter, and Erik will engage with skiers and spectators throughout Birkie Week, representing both the spirit of the historical reenactment and the vibrant modern ski community. Their involvement highlights the enduring family, community, and tradition that make the American Birkebeiner a treasured event.
For more information, visit https://www.birkie.com/live/warriors-and-inga-contest/ or contact Birkie Marketing at (715) 575-1168 or media@birkie.com.
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About the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation
The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting healthy and active lifestyles for people of all ages. Since 1985, ABSF has organized the Slumberland American Birkebeiner, Kortelopet, Prince Haakon, and ancillary events, attracting skiers from around the world to experience the beauty and challenges of the American Birkebeiner Trail.
About Birkie Week 2026
Birkie Week 2026 will mark the 52nd anniversary of the American Birkebeiner and Kortelopet.
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Open Track Ski Events
Opening Ceremony
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Barkie Birkie Skijor
Barnebirkie kid’s races
Jr. Birkie youth races
Birkie Giant Ski race
Birkie Expo
Friday, February 20, 2026
52nd Anniversary Kortelopet presented by Salomon – 29 km
Prince Haakon presented by Northern Lakes Cooperative – 15 km
Birkie Expo
Saturday, February 21, 2026
52nd Anniversary Slumberland American Birkebeiner presented by Pioneer Midwest – 50/53 km
Sunday, February 22, 2026
On-Snow Ski Demo
Posted December 8, 2025 at 1:55 pm
