Blood, sweat, and skiers

The American Birkeibiner

As we roll into December and the temperature drops lower than da Bears' ranking in the NFC, many of us start lookin' around thinking: Cripes, now what?

If you're someone who enjoys winter sports, medieval Norwegian history, or the liberating sensation of wearing spandex (hey, don't knock 'em till you try 'em), you may know the answer to that question - The American Birkeibiner.

Taking place each February, the "Birkie" is a 50 kilometer nordic cross-country ski race, who's legendary story attracts tens of thousands of participants every year to the cold reaches of Hayward, WI. An event as bewildering to witness as it is to ski, the Birkeibiner has fast become a historic event in our state and across the world.

Burbaka-what now?

Birkebiener races are the reincarnation of Norwegian lore. Legend has it that during the Norwegian Civil War in the year 1206, the son of King Sverresson was smuggled to safety by two skiers, dubbed "Birkebeiners" for the protective birch bark leggings they wore.

Skiing over the unforgiving mountains and forests of Norway's Osterdalen valley, the skiers and precious cargo made it to safety, and the story lived on as a symbol of courage and national pride.

One man's dream

In 1932, Norway held its first Birkebeiner ski race in honor of this history. An American named Tony Wise, wishing to reconnect with his Norwegian heritage, organized America's version in 1974 as part of the Worldloppet league, which bound his race to 19 other worldwide ski marathons.

Unknown to the 35 skiers who lined up for Wise's race, the event would gain international accolade and become the 3rd largest Birkie in the world.

The ins and outs

Like brats at a tailgate, the Birkebeiner is a real classic for cross-country skiers from all over the world. In 2020, 27 countries and 47 states had representation in the 5-day Birkebeiner, with spectators, racers, and volunteers summing at nearly 45,000.

Racers take to the starting line in anticipation of the highly-rated course, which begins in Cable, WI and ends in Hayward. Skiers glide across wooded trails, Lake Hayward, and the Birke bridge before finally ending on Main Street amidst screaming spectators. Criminy, gives ya goose bumps just thinking about it!

From experts to couch potatoes

The race is broken up into different waves and categories to best suite skiers of all abilities. On side of the spectrum is international pro-athletes, and on the other your neighbor Kenny who hasn't moved from the recliner since October.

But regardless of Kenny's resting heart rate, it's all in the spirit of the Birkie.

Not just skiing

Somewhere along the way, some fat bikers decided they wanted to try their hand at the famed Birkie course. And with those folks, the long-distance runners came, and eventually even those skijorers tethered to their dogs. Alas, categories for each of those disciplines were born.

Alongside those special categories are also designations for honored entrants. Most notable are the Spirit of 35, which distinguishes those who raced the original Birkie in the 70's, as well as the Wave 70, composed of those 70 years and older still kickin' butt out on the course.

How to get out 'der

Even if you are unsure of your ability to ski some 30 miles in the frigid cold, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Consider donating to the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, which saved the Birkie in the 80's after bankruptcy loomed. Or, donate your time as a volunteer. Heck, even sending this email to a friend helps spread the word on this Wisconsin classic.