Inga and Warriors Application

Could You Be the Next Winners?

Each year, a trio of skiers is selected to portray Prince Haakon’s mother Inga and the Birkebeiner warriors Torstein and Skjervald.  The three characters played a pivotal role in Norwegian history.  During civil war in 1206, Torstein and Skjervald skied through the mountains and rugged forests of Norway carrying the King’s son, Prince Haakon, to safety.

The skiers reenact the historic flight on wooden skis and in full period costume along the entire Birkie 54K classic race course, serving as Birkie Ambassadors, engaging with skiers and spectators along the way.  The dramatic journey culminates when Inga, the baby Prince, Torstein, and Skjervald ski up Main Street amidst cheers from spectators and skiers alike as they make their way to the finish line.

Warriors & Inga Application Now Open for 2025!

Gather your family or friends and apply as a trio – Inga, Torstein, and Skjervald.

The trio may provide a baby to carry down Main St. or the ABSF can provide a baby-doll Prince Haakon if preferred.

The ABSF will supply the Inga and Warrior costumes, though winners can provide their own historically accurate costuming.

• Required Appearances for Birkie Week:
• Opening Ceremonies: Wednesday, Feb. 19
• Barnebirkie & Jr. Birkie: Thursday, Feb. 20
• Giant Ski: Thursday, Feb. 20
• Kortelopet & Prince Haakon Awards: Friday, Feb. 21
• Slumberland American Birkebeiner: Saturday, Feb. 22

Application deadline is December 1, 2024.

Ski the Birkie (or Korte) for Race Credit

Inga, Torstein, and Skjervald will receive Birkie credit for completing the race.

Free Entry

Each member of the winning group will also receive a free Birkie or Korte race entry for the current year or the following year if they have already registered for 2024.

“Portraying Skjervald 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 (Skjervald)

“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.”
– 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, Skjervald and Inga, made for a very memorable day.  It was an unforgettable experience.”
– Bruce Derauf, Duluth, MN (Torstein)