News from the ABSF If you're a member of the media, visit our Birkie Week Media Page.
Madnorski Talks Skiing & Birkie on WPR
How to enjoy Wisconsin’s winters outside, even in the dark Carrie Eaton is president of the Madison Nordic Ski Club. She shares insights on getting out and taking advantage of snowy weather
Mt. Telemark Village Competition Venue Officially Named The Carlson Competition Stadium
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Cable, WI – December 19, 2025 – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is proud to announce the official naming of the Mt. Telemark Village competition venue at the Birkebeiner Trail Head: The Calrson Competition Stadium. Dr. Brent Carlson’s investment in our future allows for us to develop a venue that will not only enable us to host the most competitive youth and development events in the country, but […]
Skiing Birkie Trail Snippets in Hayward Lakes
by Ian McKay, Fox 47Fri, December 5th 2025 at 8:00 AM Most of the time when people go to the Birkie Trail, they’re not looking to ski the length of the trail. They want to drive to one spot, experience a nice part of the Trail, and return to their vehicle. Here are some places to […]
New Yorker Journalist Reflects on her Birkie Experience upon a Leukemia Diagnosis
From New Yorker Instagram Post: On May 25, 2024, Tatiana Schlossberg gave birth to her daughter. A few hours later, her doctor noticed that her blood count looked strange. The diagnosis was acute myeloid leukemia, with a rare mutation called Inversion 3. “I wasn’t sick. I didn’t feel sick. I was actually one of the […]
WTMJ Outdoors spotlights Birkie winter events
Now that the snow is flying across the State of Wisconsin, what better time to talk about all of our favorite outdoor winter activities? WTMJ Outdoors host Steve Scaffidi sat down with the folks at Crystal Ridge Ski Area in Franklin, representatives from the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce (think lots of snow), and we […]
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 […]
WHSM – Musky 101 talks Turkey Birkie
The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is kicking off the start of the ski season. The Turkey Birkie is a chance to ski on a 1.2-kilometer loop of machine-made snow. The three-day long festival kicks off Friday, November 28 at Mt. Telemark Village in Cable. The Turkey Birkie is an early-season event that utilizes the snow making […]
WCCO looks into Northwoods Snowmaking at Mt. Telemark Village
Read the full story at cbsnews.com/minnesota
WPR features Birkie Author Jerome Poling
Author Jerome “Jerry” Poling was recently featured on Wisconsin Public Radio to discuss his latest book: American Birkebeiner- The Nation’s Greatest Ski Marathon. “When you’ve done it once, you just want to come back and keep doing it as long as you possibly can,” Poling said on WPR’s “Wisconsin Today.” Listen to the story: Join […]
WI Nordic Winter Kickoff Livestream
In November 2024, Birkie & Ariens Nordic Center hosted a Winter Kickoff Livestream. This online event was well received with around 1,000 viewers between Facebook & YouTube and an engaged chat full of enthusiastic skiers. On Monday November 17th, we hosted the first WI Nordic Winter Kickoff Livestream. This program will followed a similar format to the event […]
Midwest Grilling Visits the Birkie
This episode of Maddog & Merrill’s Midwest Grilling first aired in March 2025 and has been making it’s way around midwest television stations ever since. It recently became available online. Just in time for the temperatures to drop. Check out a few recipes to accompany your Birkie fever.
Birkebeiner Trail statues unveiled to honor designers Sven Wiik, Marty Hall
Dedication ceremony held Oct. 4 at trailhead near Cable, Wis. CABLE, Wis. — In 1975 and 1976, Sven Wiik and Marty Hall were hired, respectively, to design the American Birkebeiner cross-country ski trail. Fifty years later, on Oct. 4, at the race trailhead near Cable, they were honored posthumously when life-size statues of them were […]
Trails Need You! Come Volunteer!
Join us Wednesday nights on the Trek Trails powered by OTM! Thanks to everyone that has come to join us so far this summer. As we get into the fall, we need more hands to finish out some brand new trails before the first freeze. Details: A huge part of successful MTB systems is community […]
Proposed Disc Golf Course Preview – Oct. 4
Mt. Telemark Village has a proposal for a new Disc Golf course! The proposed course, designed by Dennis and Barb Blow, was set out this fall with small flags indicating the tee area and basket for each hole. On Saturday, October 4 at 1:30 pm there will be a walk through the proposed 18-hole course. This is your opportunity to see […]
A beautiful autumn weekend for the Rossignol Birkie Trail Run
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2025 Rossignol Birkie Trail Run brings competition and crowds to an autumn weekend in Cable, WI [Cable, WI, Sept. 29, 2025] – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) hosted the 2025 Rossignol Birkie Trail Run on Saturday, September 27. Over 900 racers, joggers and trekkers took on the Mt. Telemark Village and surrounding […]
Two Statues Honor Birkie Trail Designers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Dedication of two statues Oct. 4 to honor American Birkebeiner Trail designers Former Olympic coaches Wiik, Hall mapped iconic Wisconsin route, beginning 50 years ago HAYWARD, Wis. — The 50-kilometer American Birkebeiner Trail through the hilly northwoods of Wisconsin is regarded as one of the finest cross-country ski trails in the world. […]
Ski de She Welcomes NY Times Best Selling Author Elyse Kopecky
9/22/2025 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hayward, WI – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is excited to open registration for the fourth annual Kari Traa Ski de She women’s camp & race weekend, an event for women to come together to expand their skills, build race confidence and connect with fellow female skiers. The camp […]
Join a Sun Day of Action on Friday, September 26th
Sun Day is a day of action on September 21, 2025, celebrating the power of clean energy. The clean energy revolution is here. On Sep 21, that nation celebrate the progress we’ve made and push for more. We’re celebrating our SunDay on Friday, September 26th! Join us at Mt. Telemark Village for our Sun Day […]
Paul Thompson Sets World Record at 77 – Living the Birkie Lifestyle On and Off the Trails
There’s more to disc play than golf and ultimate—and Birchlegger Paul Thompson proves it. At 77 years old, Paul set a World Record in the Accuracy event at the Minnesota State Overall Championships last Saturday, going 16 of 28 and setting the mark for both the 70+ and 75+ divisions. But Paul’s story goes far beyond a single competition. A lifelong […]
Mt. Telemark Village hosts Chequamegon 40 Finish
An incredible weekend of riding in the Northwoods as thousands took on the Lifetime Chequamegon 40, one of the most celebrated off-road cycling races in the country. The drag race from Hayward to Cable ends at the American Birkebeiner Trailhead in Mt. Telemark Village, and the energy there was electric. Check out the roll-out from […]
Trek President John Burke joins NICA’s Cable Conquest at Mt. Telemark Village
(9/3/2025) – Cable, WI – The ABSF was excited once again host NICA’s Cable Conquest this past Labor Day weekend. Every year, the Wisconsin chapter of NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) takes over Mt. Telemark Village as youth racers take on the trails. We were also particularly honored to also host Trek Bicycle President John […]
Team Birkie Becomes Independent Non-Profit Organization
New Chapter Marks Growth and Expanded Opportunities for Midwest Skiers CABLE, WI — July 24, 2025 — Team Birkie announced today that it has officially established itself as an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, marking an exciting new chapter for the Midwest’s premier high-performance cross-country ski team. Since its formation four years ago, Team Birkie has operated under […]
Book Launch Event at Mt. Telemark Village
American Birkebeiner: The Nation’s Greatest Ski Marathon With Author Jerome PolingPresented by the Wisconsin Historical Society and the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Join us during Turkey Birkie weekend for a special book launch event celebrating the release of American Birkebeiner: The Nation’s Greatest Ski Marathon by author and skier Jerome P. Poling. Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025Time: 1:30 PMLocation: Mt. Telemark Village Hub, Cable, WIFacebook […]
Pioneer Midwest and Rex Wax Commit to Three Year Presenting Sponsor Agreement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Pioneer Midwest and Rex Wax Commit to Three Year Agreement as Presenting Sponsor of the American Birkebeiner Ski Race [Hayward, WI, July 21, 2025] – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) proudly announces that Pioneer Midwest and Rex Ski Wax have jointly committed to being the Presenting Sponsor of the American Birkebeiner […]
Rossignol signs on as Title Sponsor of the 2025 Birkie Trail Run
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Hayward, WI, July 15, 2025] – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is proud to announce Rossignol as the Title Sponsor of the 2025 Birkie Trail Run. “Rossignol has enjoyed a long and meaningful partnership with the ABSF. To now be able to expand that as title sponsor of Birkie Trail Run and […]
Two Nominations for the Inaugural WI Gov. Outdoor Industry Awards
Both the American Birkebeiner and Mt. Telemark Village were nominated for Destination of the Year from the inaugural Wisconsin Governor’s Outdoor Industry Awards. The awards ceremony was held Thursday, June 26 at the Governor’s Residence on the shores of Lake Mendota in Madison. The event was hosted by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers along with Tourism […]
The Dusty Dutchman Reviews Mt. Telemark Village
In May, professional mountain biker and YouTube influencer The Dusty Dutchman hit the Trek Trails powered by OTM and took in the entire MTV experience, The MTV Hub building, Home Base at Mt. Telemark Village, River’s Eatery & Tilly’s pies in Cable. Check out his review!
SRAM EPIC Bike Fest Celebrates Northwoods Riding
SRAM EPIC Bike Fest Hosts the Midwest’s Premier Races on CAMBA & Mt. Telemark Village Trails Throughout Weekend Festival CABLE, WI (June 8, 2025) – A week of scattered rain showers and sunshine provided the perfect trai conditions for the EPIC Bike Fest Weekend in Cable, Wisconsin hosted by the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF or Birkie). […]
WCCO Previews EPIC Bike Fest
WCCO’s Derek James traveled from the Twin Cities on a rainy Tuesday to preview EPIC Bike Fest the following Friday – Sunday. He met with 2x EPIC Champion Daxton Mock along with Event Director Kristy Maki to preview the EPIC events coming to the CAMBA Trails and Mt. Telemark Village this weekend.
Registration for 2026 Birkie Week Events Opens May 1
Hayward, WI — April 29, 2025 — The countdown is officially on for one of the most anticipated winter traditions in the Northwoods. Registration for the 2026 Slumberland American Birkebeiner and week of skiing events opens on Thursday, May 1. Skiers from around the world—and right here at home—are already gearing up for race week, […]
Epic Bike Fest & Fat Bike Birkie Among the Regional & National Best
CABLE, WI – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is proud to announce that Epic Bike Fest and Fat Bike Birkie have been officially named fan favorites, earning top honors in recent regional and national rankings. The following recognitions were awarded by TheNxrth.com: Additionally, Fat Bike Birkie was also recently named one of America’s Top 5 […]
PRESS RELEASE – 2025 Fat Bike Birkie a Success on the Snow
Photo by Kelly Randolph at Once in a Blue Moon Studio
51st American Birkebeiner Race to Finish on Main Street in Hayward
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hayward, WI (February 10, 2025) – After a low-snow winter threatened the traditional Cable to Hayward course of the annual American Birkebeiner ski race, organizers have officially announced a Main Street finish thanks to the help of this past weekend’s snowfall. “We are beyond exited to announce we’re able to bring the […]
Hayward Area Chamber Welcomes 2025 American Birkebeiner Participants and Spectators!
The Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to extend a warm welcome to all the participants of the 2025 American Birkebeiner, as well as those who have traveled here to support them! This iconic event, one of the largest cross-country ski races in the world, is back in our picturesque town, bringing together athletes, […]
American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Prepares to Host 51st American Birkebeiner Race
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Hayward, WI (January 27, 2025) – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is preparing to host the 51st Annual American Birkebeiner (aka Birkie) ski race and week of skiing events February 19 – 23. Event organizers are preparing for the traditional Cable to Hayward race course along the world famous Birkie trail. […]
Northern News Now Talks With Event Director Kristy Maki
With Birkie week less than one month away, KBJR-6 took a moment to chat with ABSF Event Director Kristy Maki about the upcoming event and the current conditions. Read more by visiting northernnewsnow.com
Florida Snowbird Trains for His 2025 Kortelopet
We reached out to Paul who lives in Florida during the winter to share his Birkie Story on how he prepares for his Korte in Florida. “We became Snowbirds and legal residents of Florida during Covid. But I remain committed to skiing a Birkie or Korte since getting a serious case of Birke fever in […]
Brazil Skier Trains for Kortelopet 2025
We reached out to Leonardo from Brazil to tell his story on how he started cross-country skiing and what brought him to the Birkie. Read his story below. “Although I live in a tropical country, I have been exposed to skiing since I was a teen – when I lived in Switzerland. But only last […]
ABSF Expands the Pioneer Midwest Seeley Hills Classic
Hayward/Cable, WI – With the recent race cancellations in the Midwest, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is expanding the Pioneer Midwest Seeley Hills Classic with an additional race day on Sunday, January 12 to host skate skiing events. This event now includes: – A 5K course that will challenge skiers of all levels – Saturday: […]
Leena’s Kortelopet Story: Joining Us in 2025 from Sweden
Leena, a skier from Sweden who will be participating in the Kortelopet, shares the story of how she decided to take on the challenge of the race and what inspired her to join in. This year will mark her 4th Kortelopet! Read her story below. “You will be disappointed by my routine for preparing for […]
Mt. Telemark Village Year End Giving
The Mt. Telemark Village Capital Campaign, the largest thing the Birkie has ever done, is racing to the finish. This project will ensure a vibrant future for the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. With $2M left to reach the finish, the Birkie’s leadership has pledged a $1M donation, challenging the Birkie community to match it, raising […]
Get Your Nordic On! – Learn-To-Ski, On-Snow Group Technique Lessons with Team Birkie
(MINNEAPOLIS, MN) – Team Birkie knows the sublime feeling of gliding over the snow with a rush of cold winter air filling your lungs with each breath. The health benefits, joy, and lifestyle of cross country skiing is accessible to you through Get Your Nordic On clinics with Team Birkie! Have you wanted to try […]
Borah Teamwear Proudly Sponsors “Birkie Trail Kids” Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Borah Teamwear Proudly Sponsors “Birkie Trail Kids” Program, Empowering the Next Generation of Outdoor Enthusiasts Coon Valley, WI — Borah Teamwear is thrilled to announce our partnership with the “Birkie Trail Kids” program as a sponsor for the next two years. This collaboration with the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is a natural fit […]
Team Birkie Auction Begins Today at 11am CST!
(MINNEAPOLIS, MN) – Team Birkie’s most creative fundraiser begins as a kickoff to the ski racing season. Team Birkie members are on-snow in Europe, and Alayna Sonnesyn has already kicked off the competition year in Finland’s arctic circle community of Muonio in an FIS classic sprint, Friday. Racing continues next weekend for Zak Ketterson in […]
Snowmaking Update From Our Trail Manager Erik Blow
The temperatures are dropping and that can only mean one thing; snowmaking! While we certainly hope we’ll receive more assistance from Mother Nature this year producing the white stuff, we are ready to get moving as soon as the temperatures reliably drop below freezing to get as best of an early season start as we […]
American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Announces Expansion of ‘de She’ Series with the Inaugural Shred de She – Fat Bike
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Announces Expansion of ‘de She’ Series with the Inaugural Shred de She – Fat Bike Hayward, WI – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is excited to present Shred de She – Fat Bike, an event dedicated to celebrating women in biking. Originally known as Ladies Fat Bike […]
Podiumwear Extends Its Partnership With Team Birkie
Podiumwear, a leading custom team apparel brand, today announces the renewal of its sponsorship agreement with Team Birkie. Podiumwear has been the exclusive official custom team apparel partner of Team Birkie since its inception in 2021. Podiumwear’s agreement will continue with rights to design and create the exclusive men’s and women’s race uniforms for Team […]
Trek Bicycle Teams Up With Team Birkie In Sweepstakes
You can win a TREK bicycle worth up to $5,000 when you support Team Birkie. The Trek bike sweepstakes fundraiser supports Team Birke, with 100% of all funds raised going directly to Team Birkie athletes, with the drive and dedication to pursue a spot representing the United States in the upcoming World Cup season and […]
Fueling for Taper Week: Your Path to a Strong Race
Alex Larson is a sports dietitian for endurance athletes. She’ll be speaking at this year’s Ski de She Camp, but in the meantime, she’s providing us some nutritional insight for the upcoming Birkie Trail Run: With race day just around the corner, it’s time to fine-tune your nutrition strategy for taper week! This is the perfect […]
Base Camp Grand Opening Featured on Northern News Now
EDIT: The new building is called Base Camp at Mt. Telemark Village. This news story incorrectly refers to the building as Home Base at Mt. Telemark Village which is a terrific lodging option during your next visit to Mt. Telemark Village.
Birkie Trail Run Partners With Nutritionist Alex Larson
We are 7 weeks out from race weekend and now is the time to start planning out your race-week nutrition! Here’s a checklist from endurance sports dietitian Alex Larson, sharing what you can do in these final weeks to perform your best on race day. Carb Loading. For those running the half marathon and full […]
Birchleggers & Birkie Green Bib Initiative featured on WPR’s Larry Meiller Show
On Wednesday July 24, Wisconsin Public Radio’s Larry Meiller show featured a segment on upcycling plastic. Birchlegger Jim Tenorio called into the program to inform the state-wide (and beyond) listening audience of the Birkie Green initiatives surrounding our bibs which are made out of recycled water bottles. But the life those bibs don’t end on […]
Carol Ann Duffy, the first Worldloppet Master, passes at age 89
We are sad to announce that on July 21, 2024 we had to say goodbye to Carol Ann Duffy of Hayward, Wisconsin, born in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Carol was the first Worldloppet Master earning diploma number one in 1980 along with her husband Tom who earned diploma number three. Back in 2018, for the 40th […]
RUNNING STORIES: North Carolina Running Coach Makes His Way to Birkie Trail Run
Elite trail runner Cory shares his fitness story with the Birkie: “I grew up in eastern Kansas and ran my first-mile race three days before I turned three. This was the beginning of my love for running. I spent most of my childhood running through the woods and sword-fighting corn stocks. Eventually, I began training […]
RUNNING STORIES: 76-year-old Kohler, WI Native Completes Over 200 Ultra Marathons
Roy, from Kohler, WI, shares his running story with the Birkie: “I started running on my 32nd birthday, July 1980 (a late bloomer, so I had to catch up to the fast guys) and have been running since. I entered my first race, the Mayfair Marathon, over Memorial Day Weekend in 1981. My first race […]
Grand Opening Scheduled for Base Camp at Mt. Telemark Village, Home of the American Birkebeiner
[Hayward, WI, July 12, 2024] – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation will hold the Grand Opening Celebration of Base Camp at Mt. Telemark Village on Saturday, August 17, 2024 from 12:30P – 2:30P (15555 Birkie Blvd, Cable, WI 54821). “This is not about the Birkie or the ABSF, this is about a community doing something […]
American Birkebeiner Featured on PBS News Hour
The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is committed to reducing our carbon footprint through our Birkie Green initiative, which acts as a filter for everything we do from events to building structures. Our Birkie Green initiative focuses on five areas: 1. Limit our use of unrecycled material for retail and for race swag.2. Increase our reliance […]
Free Birkie Entry with a Minimum $1,499 Purchase at Slumberland Furniture
For Birkie Ski, Run, or Bike Events*2025 – 2026 Slumberland Furniture and the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation again welcome you to this “homey” way to get a free entry to a Birkie event – Ski, Run, or Bike. This program has been a great success for Birkie skiers, runners, and bikers over the last year, […]
Ben Popp Elected Worldloppet President
American Birkebeiner Executive Director Ben Popp elected President of the Worldloppet International Ski Federation. The Worldloppet Member delegates voted this past week at their Annual Summit in Sapporo, Japan – the venue of Sapporo Ski Marathon. Hayward, WI (June 17, 2024) — Ben Popp replaces Juha Viljamaa from Lahti, Finland, who has been the representing […]
Team Birkie Announces 2024-25 Regional Team
Team Birkie’s Regional Team adds four new members to Team Birkie for 2024-25. Aidan Ripp added to Continental Team. (MINNEAPOLIS, MN) – Emma Stertz, Dolcie Tanguay, Connor Roberts, and David Ronnevik, will join Team Birkie’s Regional Team. The Regional Team is an opportunity for athletes to continue their development of high level ski racing, as […]
Tamarack Health and Team Birkie Join Forces in Athlete Healthcare Partnership
(MINNEAPOLIS, MN) – Tamarack Health and Team Birkie announced an exclusive partnership that redefines medical support for elite level skiers in the United States. The collaboration makes Tamarack Health the Official Healthcare Partner of Team Birkie, and guarantees its athletes medical care and support in the run-up to the 2026 Olympics. Tamarack Health provides comprehensive […]
RUNNING STORIES: Hayward Local Shares Her Running Journey
Josie, a Hayward, WI, local, shares her running story with the Birkie: “‘Athlete’ was one of the last things I would have called myself prior to tenth grade. I struggled in phy ed and had never participated in an organized sport. That year, however, a neighbor encouraged me to join the cross-country running team. I […]
Team Birkie Announces 2024-25 Marathon Team
(MINNEAPOLIS, MN) – Team Birkie’s Marathon Team gets a boost for the 2024-25 season from three new, highly experienced ski racers. Abigail Drach, Nicole (Schneider) Eliasson, Vivian (Hett) Johnson and Maxwell Turnberg, will join Team Birkie Marathon Team returners, Delany Fitzpatrick, Sam Holt, and Jenna and Zach Nelson. All four newcomers are Twin Cities natives, […]
Team Birkie Announces New Coaching Staff and Structure
Ensrud named Head Coach, Salmela moves to High Performance Manager. (MINNEAPOLIS, MN) – Former Team Birkie skier, Julie Ensrud, has been named Head Coach of Team Birkie. Ensrud raced two seasons for Team Birkie after a distinguished NCAA skiing career at Northern Michigan University and the University of New Mexico. The Saltnes, Norway, native comes […]
RUNNING STORIES: From Colorado to Wisconsin: Brian’s Birkie Trail Run Adventure
In our ongoing Birkie Trail Run Story series, we’re excited to share Brian’s journey. Hailing from Colorado, he brings a unique perspective to his Birkie experience. Read on for his story: “I am so excited to come out to Wisconsin. I have heard that the Birkie Nordic Ski race is iconic with a rich history. […]
Cable/Seeley Voted the Best Gravel Biking destination by The Nxrth!
“The home to a ton of amazing off road events all year long and hundreds of miles of gravel and singletrack, the Cable area is only going to continue to grow as an adventure cycling destination. With the development around Mt. Telemark Village and the Birkie’s continued investment in the trails and events, expect this […]
RUNNING STORIES: Hayward local plans to return for the Birkie Trail Run
It’s time to hear from our first Local Birkie Trail Run Story! Matt resides in our very own Hayward WI. He shares his running journey below! “I first ran the Birkie Trail Run my first year of living in Hayward. I was invited to join the New Moon Men’s Relay Team. It was the week […]
RUNNING STORIES: Virginia Runner plans to come back to the Northwoods for the Birkie Trail Run 1/2 Marathon
Joining us from Virginia, Jean and her family will share time in Hayward, WI. Without knowing, I reached out to Jean and Hali, and turns out they are mother and daughter! What a fun connection. Below is her story: “In 2020, we were living in Duluth, my hubby was working out of town, and our […]
Icebug Birkie Trail Run selected to host USAFT Marathon Trail Championship
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 21, 2024 HAYWARD, WI – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is proud to announce its selection as the host venue for the United States of America Track and Field (USATF) MUT (Mountain Ultra Trail) Marathon Trail Championship as part of the Icebug Birkie Trail Run event on Saturday, September 28th, 2024. The […]
RUNNING STORIES: Nebraska Runner comes to the Northwoods for the Birkie Trail Run 5K
In the upcoming months, we’re delighted to share a series of captivating runner stories with you. Our first spotlight falls on Hali and her family, who hail from the heart of Nebraska. Their story is one of resilience, determination, and the joy of running. “I’ve always lived a pretty active lifestyle whether it was swimming, […]
Lifesaving Drone Technology Debuted at this year’s American Birkebeiner Event
PRESS RELEASE Lifesaving Drone Technology Debuted at this year’s American Birkebeiner Event HAYWARD, WI (March 6, 2024) – As the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation wraps a successful 50th Anniversary Season this weekend with the Fat Bike Birkie, the ABSF medical team in Hayward, Wisconsin celebrated something never before tried in sports: after two cardiac incidents at […]
American Birkebeiner Celebrates 50 Years by Hosting its Annual Week of Ski Events on Ten Kilometers of Machine-made Snow
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HAYWARD, WI (February 25, 2024) – Despite the warmest Wisconsin winter on record and less than 16” of natural fallen snow in Sawyer County, Birkie Week 2024 events were enjoyed by nearly 12,000 participants representing all 50 states and 26 countries. This week was made possible by the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation’s capabilities […]
WI State Legislature declares February 19th – 25th American Birkebeiner Week in Wisconsin
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE HAYWARD, WI (February 18, 2024) – Last week the WI State Senate adopted Assembly Joint Resolution 104, officially declaring February 19th – 25th American Birkebeiner Week in Wisconsin. American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Executive Director Ben Popp commented, “we are honored to be recognized state-wide as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of this globally renowned race. […]
Changes to Birkie Week 2024: Lapped Courses and Race Distance Changes
Hayward, WI, February 13, 2024 – As anticipation builds for Birkie Week 2024, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is announcing several updates to this year’s 50th Slumberland American Birkebeiner anniversary celebration event. Birkie Week promises an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike, with the introduction of lapped courses, shortened distances, and the excitement of […]
Ernie St. Germaine Received 50th Anniversary Custom Skis
On Friday, February 9th, Ernie St. Germaine, the only skier to have skied all 49 American Birkebeiners, picked up his custom skis for his 50th race in just two weeks. Months ago, Erine realized he needed new pair of skis for this year’s race. He stopped by Hayward’s Riverbrook Bike and Ski. Owners Tim Swift […]
Executive Director Ben Popp discusses a warmer Birkie year on MPR
American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Executive Director Ben Popp chatted with Jenn White on Minnesota Public Radio. Ben discusses the current and forecasted weather conditions as well as the initial Birkie contingency plans. Interviewed live on January 31, 2024.
Marketing & Communications Director Shawn Connelly talks Birkie 2024 on Civic Media Network
As Birkie week 2024 approaches American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Marketing and Communications Director Shawn Connelly appeared on the Matenaer on the Air show hosted by WUAK 101FM and the Civic Media Network. The Civic Media Network‘s Hayward station 910AM will also be carrying race coverage the week of the Birkie. More details to come as the […]
Trio Selected to Portray Historic Inga & Warriors During Birkie Week 2024 Celebration
Hayward, Wisc. (January 25, 2024) – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation proudly announces the selection of Kirsten Sandman, Todd Sandman, and Craig Hokanson, to portray the iconic figures of Inga & the Warriors during the 50th-anniversary Birkie celebration, February 21–24, 2024. The trio hails from the Cumberland Area Timberland Hills ski area in Barron County, […]
Executive Director Ben Popp discusses Birkie contingency plans on WCCO
American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Executive Director Ben Popp appeared on WCCO-Minneapolis to discuss the 50th Anniversary American Birkebeiner week-long ski event and celebration coming this February 20th – 25th. He sheds light on the history of the event and the potential contingency plans in the event the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Olympic Gold Medalist Jessie Diggins to Headline 2024 Birkie Bash Celebration
Mt. Telemark Village Campaign to Benefit from Proceeds Hayward, Wis. – 12/21/23 – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is proud to announce that Jessie Diggins, decorated world-class athlete and Olympic gold medalist, will be the guest of honor at the 2024 Birkie Bash celebration on Thursday, February 22, 2024, for an unforgettable evening in […]
Mt. Telemark Village Club Challenge
Best club in the Midwest? Best club in the country? Best club in North America? There are many ways to measure the value of a club and the Birkie is here to provide a scale – with a great reward for the winning team. It’s simple, fun, and tax deductible. The Birkie will recognize the […]
American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Events Draw Record Number of Skiers for 50th Anniversary of Birkie Week
Registration Closes for Prince Haakon and Birkie Open Track Events HAYWARD, WISCONSIN – November 9, 2023 – The 50th Anniversary of Birkie Week is already making history with a surge of registrations causing races to fill up earlier than ever before. Registration for the Prince Haakon (15K) and Birkie Open Track events closed at midnight […]
Birkie Signs New Official Outfitter
Maloja is New Official Outfitter of the American Birkebeiner, the Largest Cross Country Ski Race in North America Rimsting, 04.10.2023 – German sportswear brand Maloja signs a 3-year contract and underlines its focus towards Nordic sports with long-term partnership Founded in 2004 in the Bavarian foothills of the Alps, Maloja has become a true pioneer […]
50th Anniversary Slumberland American Birkebeiner Makes History by Closing Registration on September 27, 2023
HAYWARD, WISCONSIN – September 28, 2023 – The 50th Anniversary Slumberland American Birkebeiner has witnessed an unprecedented rate of registrations for the 2024 event. As a result, the iconic Slumberland American Birkebeiner 50K/53K race has closed its registration earlier than ever before, on September 27, 2023. As of closing, nearly 7,500 participants were registered for […]
Icebug Birkie Trail Run: Participants Brave the Rain for a Memorable Event
Hayward, Wis. – September 25, 2023 – The 2023 Icebug Birkie Trail Run, which took place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, proved to be an unforgettable experience despite the rainy conditions. Runners from across the midwest gathered to test their mettle on the challenging trails of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF), and their determination […]
Olympic Gold Medalist Jessie Diggins to Ski 50th Anniversary Slumberland American Birkebeiner, Announcement Made at Capital Campaign Kickoff Event
Hayward, Wis. (August 28, 2023) – The Slumberland American Birkebeiner, North America’s premier cross-country ski race, is thrilled to announce that Olympic Gold Medalist Jessie Diggins will be participating in the 50th anniversary edition of the event. This exciting announcement was made during the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation’s capital campaign kickoff event at Surly Brewing […]
American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation Launches Public Phase of Campaign for Mt. Telemark Village
Hayward, Wis. (August 23, 2023) – It’s Finally Happening! The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is thrilled to announce the public launch of its $10 Million campaign for Mt. Telemark Village – your new home for real Northwood’s adventure. The Village will build upon the legacy of the historic Telemark Resort, continuing its rich tradition of […]
One Track Mind Foundation Fulfills Funding Needs for Trek Trails at Mt. Telemark Village
Hayward, WI (May 2, 2023) – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is excited to announce their partnership with One Track Mind (OTM) Foundation to complete the development of approximately 17 miles of mountain bike trails at Mt. Telemark Village, in Cable, Wis. This partnership, in addition to existing funds received from the Trek Foundation, […]
Weather doesn’t put a damper on annual Birkie Week events
HAYWARD, WI (February 25, 2023) – Birkie Week 2023 officially kicked off with nearly perfect conditions during the Open Track events on Wednesday, followed by snowstorm Wednesday night that brought over 6” of snow to the area. Despite the concern over weather, over 13,000 skiers participated in nine different events throughout the week. Twenty countries […]
American Birkebeiner Gets More Cowbell
45-time Birkie racer sparks personalized commemorative bell Hayward, WI — February 20, 2023 — To celebrate athletes and create even more cheering clamor at the nation’s largest ski race, the American Birkiebeiner (aka Birkie) and Cowbells.com have entered into a licensing agreement. It allows custom engraved cowbells to be personalized with participants/fans names or message […]
Legislature Recognizes the American Birkebeiner
Adopts Resolution Declaring February 20-26 as American Birkebeiner Week in Wisconsin MADISON – With the adoption of Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 3 by the State Assembly during Thursday’s floor session, February 20th – 26th is now recognized as American Birkebeiner Week in Wisconsin. It was first approved by the State Senate on Tuesday. The resolution […]
33rd Annual Seeley Hills Classic Hosts over 600 Participants and SuperTour Races
Hayward, WI (January 15, 2023) — The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation hosted over 500 citizen racers and 100 SuperTour athletes at the 33rd annual Seeley Hills Classic on Saturday, January 14, 2023. In addition to the distance races on Saturday, there were SuperTour sprints on Sunday at the Birkie Trailhead. While the Birkie hosts SuperTour […]
Birkie Announces Skiers to Portray Inga and Warriors at 2023 Birkie
Hayward, WI (January 13, 2023) — The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is excited to announce the selection of another set of cross-country skiers portraying the two Birkebeiner Warriors, Torstein and Skervald, and Inga, mother of Prince Haakon for the 49th annual American Birkebeiner Ski Race. Here in Northern Wisconsin the late Tony Wise founded the […]
