The Turkey Birkie

40 years ago, I was a beginner. American Birkebeiner, cross country ski race is 50 kilometers (approx 30 miles) over glacial hills in northern Wisconsin. It is an international event that now has a limit of 13,500 skiers.

I had no idea if I could ski the distance, I had no idea if I could climb all the hills, survive the fast, long downhills, or if my very basic equipment could withstand the challenges ahead.

for U.S. Ski and Snowboard, returning to the start area of the largest cross country ski race in northAmerica, is always an emotional event for me.

These days,TheAmerican Birkebeiner Foundation has established yearround events with the intent of providing healthy activities in the north woods of Wisconsin. These include trail runs, fat tire bike events, and several ski races.

Over the last few years,TheTurkey Birkie, held the weekend after Thanksgiving, provides first skiing for hundreds of people.

We were fortunate this year to have some early natural snow, andThe Birkie foundation is now able to make snow for many kilometers of course. But the climate is changing, and the near 50 degrees Fahrenheit temps recently is not snowmaking weather. With a bit of a base, and snow saved, moved and groomed, several hundred of us were able to dust off rusty technique, and stretch our legs.

Driving the hour commute to the venue, my thoughts drifted back over the years.

I played someAllman Brothers Band music, as it was always my go-to for getting in a “ready , set , GO ” mindset. I thought about the anxiety I used to feel on my way to this monster event.

Conditions over many years brought a range of challenges from below zero starting temps, and wind, to snowfall during the race with accumulations of well over a foot.