News of Norway, issue 1, 1997
A record number of participants, perhaps as many as 8,000, is expected. What started with only 35 skiers in its inaugural run in 1973 has become the largest and most prestigious event of its kind in North America. Every year skiers from every state in the nation and over 20 foreign countries mark their calendar and look forward to the last Saturday in February. Following the main events— the 52-kilometer Dyno American Birkebeiner and 25-kilometer Heritage Bank of Hayward Kortelopet—on Saturday, the Awards Ceremonies Saturday evening at Telemark will close out the weekend’s activity. A slate of commemorate observances and other fun events and the presence of numerous foreign dignitaries and skiers from around the world will highlight the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Dyno American Birkebeiner.
More than just a ski race, the Birkie is actually a festival of Nordic skiing and winter sport. Competitive and spectator events take place from Thursday through Saturday. The Birkebeiner starts at 9:00 a.m. For information and registration, call 715-634-5025 Barnebirkie—Children’s Cross-Country Ski Event—Part of the Fun Once again the children will get a chance to participate in the Barnebirkie—the children’s cross-country ski event held on the Thursday before the Birkebeiner. "We expect 2000 children to be here on that day," says Tanya Gullicks, the coordinator of the February 20th event sponsored by Sons of Norway. Since its founding 11 years ago, the Barnebirkie has become the largest children’s ski event in North America. Children ages 3-13 are eligible to ski a 1-,2.5-, or 5-kilometer course, ending at the finish line on Main Street in Hayward. With no time-taking all the skiers are winners, and each receives a medal at the finish line for their participation. "We sure hope to beat the record in participants," Ms.Gullicks says. For pre-registration, call: 800-945-8851. Almost 100 volunteers from Sons of Norway and Bill Koch Ski League are involved. The event starts February 20 at 1:30 p.m. Late registrations will be accepted from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call: Orlyn Kringstad at Sons of Norway 612-827-3611 or American Birkebeiner/Sons of Norway Barnebirkie at 715-634-5025.