Get Outdoors. Get Active. ENJOY Winter.
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
A Celebration of Winter Welcome to the 29th Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival. This Canadian tradition has been ongoing since 1985, when those first brave souls summoned their inner Birkebeiners and skied up the North Saskatchewan River from Devon to Fort Edmonton Park. Since that time, thousands of people have taken their own great journey of bravery and strength, and this year will be no different. With our close call last year and the incredible work of our dedicated Loppet Committee, including our important partners at Alberta Parks, just over 1,000 skiers were able to enjoy the trails at Blackfoot/Cooking Lake. This year, our volunteers, with the continued support of Alberta Parks, have worked tirelessly on trail improvements and preparations to ensure the best chance of success for the 2018 Birkie.
We welcomed new key board members this year, and with the addition of these board members, also comes Birkie Sunday - our new family event being held in Goldbar Park in partnership with the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club. We are excited to be extending the Birkie brand and spirit of the Birkebeiner to the city and creating a more accessible event for people to get outdoors, get active and enjoy winter. Thank you to all our 500 plus volunteers, and you, the skiers, for making the Birkie Canada's premier classic cross-country ski Loppet. Enjoy all the activities that the weekend has to offer including the Nordic Fair, the Viking's Feast, and Birkie Sunday. Best of luck as you Fly Over the Snow on Skis. See you at the finish line! Mark Ryan, President
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Welcome to the 29th running of the Canadian Birkebeiner. We anticipate a great Birkie and congratulate you for joining the adventure and accepting the challenge. Here are a few notes to remember for the big day.
1. Classical Technique Only in Classic Races Skating is NOT allowed in the classic events - no gliding on herringbone; no sideways pushing except on corners (up to five pushes max. per corner). 2. Keep Right
The left lane is for passing only. Listen for the call, “Track”, and get out of the way safely and quickly.
3. Food Station Etiquette In fairness to skiers passing through, don't stop in the track; step well to the side. 4. Ears Alert
For safety, do not ski with headphones.
5. Stay on Your Course Changing events during the race is not allowed. Anyone not passing all checkpoints on their registered course will be a DNF or DSQ. 6. There is no parking at the Finish Line/Stadium Shuttle is provided for skiers in the Short Course Events (13 km and the 2/4 km Ole's Tour) from the Bethel Transit Terminal in Sherwood Park to the Waskahegan Start/Finish Area. 7. Cold Temperatures Dress appropriately in layers and bring clothing and wax for changing weather. Have adequate hand and head protection and keep well hydrated and well-fueled. Starts may be delayed and/or courses modified for safety. Please check Birkie Social Media for updates on conditions. 8. Warm Temperatures
Drink lots of water or sports drink at food stations. Peel layers as necessary.
9. Bib Visibility Please wear your bib only on your front and over top of your jacket for visibility.
BE ALERT, BE SAFE… In emergency situations, check the reverse side of your bib for Emergency Contact information for Alberta Park Rangers 780-9223293 (911 calls will be forwarded to this number). Please tell them your location (which course you're on, last km sign or food/aid station passed), and the nature and severity of the situation. They will mobilize the appropriate response. If there are “dead spots” in cell phone coverage, please move to a hill or clearing if possible. If you see an injured skier on the trail, provide what aid you can. Have someone stay with the injured skier and try to keep them warm. Send a skier to the nearest food station and/or locate a Birkie Ski Patroller, who have radios. Controllers/Patrollers are stationed along the course and are authorized to pull you from the event if they deem it is unsafe for you to continue. Please use care on downhill sections. Please do not ski on closedoff sections; doing so could result in disqualification. If you cannot continue, stop at any Food/Aid Station to get a lift to the Finish Area. Give them your bib and timing chip information and let them know that you wish to withdraw.
MEDICAL AID If you experience a medical concern, seek assistance. Food/Aid Stations and Finish Line have First Aid Teams and Course Patrollers have radios. First Aid personnel will have white bibs with a blue Star of Life on them or on the uniform of their respective ambulance service. Evacuation skidoos or vehicles are available at all Food/Aid Stations and we have quick access to ambulance. Please note any health conditions or medications in the space provided on the back side of your bib so it is accessible to Medical Staff if needed.
Message from Honourable Ricardo Miranda Minister of Culture and Tourism As Minister of Culture and Tourism, I am pleased to welcome you to the 2018 Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival. The Birkie represents the warmth and inclusiveness of Alberta, welcoming people of many different backgrounds and skill levels together to celebrate the tough and spirited Nordic culture. This winter event creates memories, encourages active and healthy living, builds relationships and personal connections, and makes our community stronger. It is a weekend full of fun, adventure, and exhilaration. For 32 years, the Birkie has been the pinnacle event of the year for cross-country skiing devotees as the largest Nordic event in western Canada, and one of three Birkebeiner Loppets in the world. Special thanks to the organizers, hundreds of volunteers, Strathcona County, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, and Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area for your hard work in making this another fantastic event. Your efforts make Alberta a great place in which to visit and play. To all participants from home and abroad, have a wonderful time. May your inner Birkebeiner warrior shine through!
Ricardo Miranda Minister
Message from His Worship Mayor Don Iveson
Message from the Strathcona County Mayor
Traveling from the historic center of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village to the Cooking Lake Blackfoot Recreation Area, each year resilient cross-country skiers will brave the cold in celebration of the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival. The race commemorates the historic journey of the Norwegian Birkebeiner political faction, who skied a treacherous route in 1206 to save their child-king from the clutches of the opposing faction. Today, the Birkie brings together 2,000 skiers from around Canada and the world to enjoy the Edmonton region's fantastic cross-country ski amenities. Complete with a lively Viking Feast and Nordic Fair, this family event offers something for everyone. As Edmonton embraces its identity as a hearty winter city, events such as this help each of us to appreciate the unique opportunities that winter affords us. I thank the organizers, sponsors and volunteers for your commitment to this great festival. Your efforts are making Edmonton more active and engaged city for all of us.
Welcome to the Canadian Birkebeiner, February 9-11, 2018. On behalf of Strathcona County Council, I am delighted to welcome players, coaches and families that are participating in this annual event. What an incredible opportunity for our region to host Canada’s Premier cross country ski festival. If you are visiting from out of town, I hope you will have an opportunity to experience what our beautiful specialized municipality, with a blend of rural and urban areas, there is something for everyone. Enjoy our excellent hotels, shopping, restaurants, recreation facilities and beautiful landscapes throughout. A large thank you is in order for the volunteers who organized this event. Their dedication to the sport and to the athletes is commendable!
Enjoy the trails!
Good luck to all competitors and enjoy your time together making lasting memories.
Yours truly,
Best Regards,
Don Iveson Mayor
Rod Frank Mayor Strathcona County
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Message from the Norwegian Consulate It is my great pleasure to bring greetings from Norway to the participants in this year's Birkebeiner Ski Festival. Our countries share a great history and friendship, with a true passion for the cold outdoors and cross-country skiing. The Canadian Birkebeiner is an event that more than anything demonstrates this special relationship. Enjoy the day and the trails in the spirit of Nordic Legends!
Bjørn Morisbak Honorary Consul Kingdom of Norway
CANADIAN BIRKEBEINER PROGRAM The Canadian Birkebeiner is a three-day celebration of cross country skiing and Nordic legends. It is one of Western Canada's Premier Nordic Ski Event and one of only three Birkebeiner Loppets in the world, with Norway and the USA hosting the other two.
DAY ONE: FEBRUARY 9 (FRIDAY) Location: WOODVALE COMMUNITY FACILITY, 4540 - 50 Street, Edmonton (Millwoods Golf Course) OPENING CEREMONIES: 11:30 A.M. The legend that the Birkie recreates each year is described, sponsors are recognised, and the Festival is officially opened by supporting dignitaries. NORDIC FAIR: 12-8 P.M. Visit our sponsors' and partners' booths, pick up some Birkie souvenirs, get the latest waxing advice, pre-weigh your 55 km pack, and enjoy a sample of Alley Kat beer as you catch up with ski friends. Wax Area Provided A waxing area will be provided at the Woodvale Community Facility (same building as the Nordic Fair and Registration Package Pick Up) from noon – 8 p.m. Bring your own equipment and supplies and please remember to clean up when you are done. REGISTRATION PACKAGE PICK-UP: 12-8 P.M. Bibs At the Registration Table you will receive a Tyvek bib with your Event Name and Participant Number on it and 4 safety pins to attach it to the front of your body. Ensure you write your name, timing chip number and any health conditions or medications with permanent marker in the space provided on the reverse (back) side of your bib.
Rental Timing Chip Instructions All long course events (55 and 31 km) participants will receive a GoChip timing chip with ankle strap from the Registration area at the Nordic Fair. It will record the actual time you cross the start line and finish line, not just a mass start time. 13 km skiers will receive a timing chip which records a mass start time. Timing units will be placed at some Food/Aid Stations on the Long Courses to provide livestreamed interim results so your friends and family can see where you are on the route. Refer to the Current Results page of the Birkie website for the link to live results - (canadianbirkie.com/results). Please verify your chip at the checker station before you leave the Fair. Attach the timing chip to either ankle before you leave your vehicle the morning of the event. A volunteer will collect your chip from you at the Finish Line. It is very important to return the chip immediately after your race or there will be a $60 replacement fee. Clothing Bag and Tag You will also receive a clothing bag tag with a zip tie to attach it to your bag. You can bring a duffle bag or a backpack to keep your warm clothing and other items in for use after the race and we will transport it to the Clothing Tent at the Finish Line/Stadium Area. Skiers should use a felt pen to write their bib number clearly on both sides of the tag. This tag will be used to locate your bag after the event. Updates Information will be provided at the Nordic Fair and on social media. Make sure you bring your bib, timing chip and tagged personal clothing bag on race day.
In an effort to reduce, reuse and recycle, we ask that if you have a Red (skied every year in a 55 km event), Blue (skied at least 20 years in a 55 km event) or Purple (Skied at least 10 years in a 55 km event) cloth bib from previous years that you re-use it or bring in any extras you may have to the Registration Table. canadianbirkie.com
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CANADIAN BIRKEBEINER PROGRAM DAY TWO: LONG COURSE SKI EVENTS FEBRUARY 10 (SATURDAY) All Long Course Events (55 and 31 km Classic) start near the Red Barn at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (UCHV) 50 km east of Edmonton on HWY 16 and finish at Waskahegan Staging Area in the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. Long Course Events: 55 km Torskeklubben Birkebeiner with Pack 55 km Birkie Lite 31 km Birkie Tour Parking and Shuttle Skiers must drive or be dropped off at the UCHV, there is no shuttle from Sherwood Park to the long starts (except those coming from the Host Hotel). Shuttle from Host Hotel must register with office. Shuttle buses will be available at the Finish Line / Stadium (Waskahegan) which go back to UCHV or to the Bethel Transit Terminal in Sherwood Park. Shuttles will run all afternoon. Give yourself time plenty of time to get to the start area and please put your bib on your front and timing chip on your ankle before you leave the parking lot. NEW! UCHV TO Waskahegan Transport One Van will be provided for spectators and Short Course Event participants from UCHV to the Waskahegan (Finish Line, Start of Short Course Events). Catch it outside the Red Barn at 9:45 am. All other spectators going to the finish line must park at the Bethel Transit Terminal in Sherwood Park and catch a shuttle bus to/from Waskahegan. Start Times: 8:50 am Official Program at start line for Classic Events (55 & 31 km) 9:00 Start of Wave 1 9:15 Start of Wave 2 9:30 Start of Wave 3 Once You're There Dress appropriately in layers and bring extra clothing and wax for changing weather. Look for the wax thermometer near the barn for basic guidance and SWIX and Track 'n Trail will be there to provide wax advice. Snacks and coffee are in the Red Barn, which is a heated facility located at the south end of the parking lot. Space is very limited. Indoor washrooms at the UCHV are not available, but there will be outdoor porta-potties. Pack weigh-in for 55 km skiers takes place near the Start Line. Please give yourself time to get your pack weighed and checked off. Packs must weigh a minimum of 5.5 kilograms at both the Start and Finish of the event and must be of the over-theshoulder type; fanny packs or weight vests do not qualify. Anything can be used for weight. Please weigh your pack in advance at home or at the Nordic Fair.
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Bring a duffle bag or backpack to keep your warm clothing and other items in for use after the race. In your race package you will find a tag and zip tie to attach it to your clothing bag. It is very important to clearly mark your BIB NUMBER on your tag. Leave it at the Clothing Trucks on the lake at the Start Line and your gear will be transported and put in the Clothing Tent for pickup at the Finish Line. Place yourself on one of the start lanes based on your estimated skiing time (self-seeding – start with folks of similar ability please). There will be signs along the side of the start lanes to give guidance. 55 km course distances are marked with green signs and flags, the 31 km course is marked with blue signs and flags. The courses split and merge a few times but junctions are wellflagged. Take care to stay on your course. Have fun!
DAY TWO: SHORT COURSE SKI EVENTS FEBRUARY 10 (SATURDAY) All Short Course Events (13 km and 2/4 km Ole's Tour) start and finish at Waskahegan Staging Area in the Cooking LakeBlackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. Short Course Events: 13 km Global Edmonton Tour 2/4 km Ole's Tour presented by E Construction Parking and Shuttle There is no parking at the Short-Start/Finish Line. Skiers and spectators MUST PARK at Bethel Transit Terminal (Broadview Rd, Sherwood Park). Free shuttle buses run continuously between Bethel Transit Terminal and Waskehegan from 8:30 am until 5:30 pm. Buses leave when they are full (about every 10-15 minutes) and the ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Start Times 10:55 am Official Program at Start Line 11:00 am Start of 2 km or 4 km Ole's Tour 1:25 pm Official Program at Start Line 1:30 pm Start of 13 km Global Edmonton Tour Once You're There Dress appropriately in layers and bring extra clothing and wax for changing weather. Snacks and coffee are available in the Festival Tent. Indoor washrooms are not available, but there will be outdoor portapotties. Bring a duffle bag or backpack to keep your warm clothing and other items in for use after the race. In your race package you will find a tag and zip tie to attach it to your clothing bag. It is very important to clearly mark your BIB NUMBER on your tag. You can leave it at the Clothing Tent in the Finish Line/Stadium Area. Plan on a 10-minute walk to the start line.
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CANADIAN BIRKEBEINER PROGRAM 2 km or 4 km Ole's Tour: Pulks (sleds) at the back please The courses are well-flagged throughout. Skiers are welcome to determine which distance to complete (untimed event).
RESULTS Results monitors are located in the Festival Tent and provide unofficial results within moments of you crossing the Finish Line. All results will be finalized by 6 pm.
13 km Global Edmonton Tour: Place yourself in one of several lanes provided based on your estimated skiing time (self-seeding – start with folks of similar ability please) and follow the red flags.
Refer to the Current Results page of the Birkie website for the link to the Zone4.ca live and final results (canadianbirkie.com/results).
Have fun! THE FINISH LINE All events finish at the Waskehegan Staging Area “Stadium”. Please be sure to give your timing chip to a Finish Line Volunteer and clear the area quickly to make room for other skiers. Blankets and medical aid are available. If you are a first-time finisher of a 55 km event, you should collect your Finisher Medallion here. CLOTHING TENT All clothing will be available in the Clothing Tent, including bags transported from the Long Start. Heated change trailers are onsite (sorry, no showers). Please be considerate and make room for other skiers once you have finished changing. This is a scent-free zone. FESTIVAL TENT After an enjoyable day skiing your Birkie, come and relax in the heated Festival Tent. Sit and enjoy a bowl of soup (including vegan option), barbequed hot dog (including gluten-free option), hot or cold drink, fruit and snacks. It's a great place to meet up with friends, old and new, and swap tales from the trail. We are going to provide a beer garden this year and are pleased that our long time Sponsor Alley Kat is providing the beer. Birkie Merchandise will be available – cash, Mastercard and VISA accepted.
If you have any questions regarding posted results, please speak to the Results Official at the Timing Trailer. VIKINGS’ FEAST Location: WOODVALE COMMUNITY FACILITY, 4540 - 50 Street, Edmonton (Millwoods Golf Course) Drive to the end of the road Time: Doors at 6 pm, FEAST at 7 pm Cost: $40 Adults; $25 Youth (15 and under)
DAY THREE: BIRKIE SUNDAY - THE VIKINGS ARE COMING! FEBRUARY 11 (SUNDAY) The Vikings are coming to Edmonton in this collaborative FamilyFun day co-hosted by the Canadian Birkebeiner Society and the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club. Join us at Gold Bar Park in Edmonton for a day of skiing, Nordic fun, competition and awards from 9 am – 1:30 pm. Hot drinks and snacks for participants. Events include: • Sprints and Relays • 750 meter, 2 or 4 km Global Mini-Birkie Loppet • Double pole sprint challenge • Fancy Dress competition – with prizes • Much more!
Year pins will be available for those who have skied more than one 55 km event.
Vikings' Feast - Saturday, February 10th Location: WOODVALE COMMUNITY FACILITY, 4540 - 50 Street, Edmonton (Millwoods Golf Course) Price: $40 Adults; $25 Youth (15 and under) Time: Doors at 6 pm; dinner at 7 pm Join us for this wonderful POST SKI celebration of culture, community and a successful BIRKIE! Buffet dinner, entertainment, awards, draw prizes and more! Feel the Birkie Spirit! Purchase tickets for the feast on Zone4 (see link at canadianbirkie.com/vikings-feast) until February 9, 2018. canadianbirkie.com
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COURSE DETAILS Food/Aid Station Information Food/Aid Stations are at distances varying from 3.2 km to 11 km apart. First Aid and evacuation support is available at all stations. Some stations have extra poles and wax kits; please return any borrowed poles to the Finish Line Officials. Friendly and helpful volunteers will greet you at refreshment stations with Gatorade, water, fruit, cookies and other treats. If you have allergies or special dietary needs, please ensure you bring suitable nourishment. Elk push station is a HOT SPOT this year and will serve hot soup and drinks. In fairness to skiers passing through, don't stop in the track; step well to the side. Station closing times for the course are listed here. If you have not reached a Food/Aid Station by the stated cut-off time you will be requested to end your ski and will be transported to the Finish Line. The finish line closes around 5:30 pm. We don't want people out on the course after dark! Closing times for each station are based on skiing an average of 9-minute kilometres over the 55 km distance. 55 km skiers have 8 hours to ski the course.
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Cut-off Times The Official Course Sweep is authorized to remove slower skiers from the event. We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring the safety of all.
Station Closing Times 55 Km Station Name Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village Blackfoot 1 Faraway Blackfoot 2 Roundup Central Elk Push 2 Wanisan Boundary Booster Finish
Km from Start 0.0 5.2 10.8 17 23.2 27.4 37 43 47.6 51 55
Closing Time 9:30 am 10:15 am 11:00 am 12:00 pm 1:15 pm 2:00 pm 2:45 pm 3:30 pm 4:15 pm 4:40 pm 5:15 pm
Km from Start 10.1 14.3 18.5 24.7 31
Closing Time 1:15 pm 2:00 pm 12:30 pm 3:30 pm 5:15 pm
Km from Start 6.5 13
Closing Time 3:30 pm 5:15 pm
Station Closing Times 31 Km Station Name Roundup Central Elk Push 1 Last Chance Finish
Station Closing Times 13 Km Station Name Last Chance Finish
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55/31 km Classic ski events share tracked start area (different start times) then split after 150 m.
BIB COLOURS 55 km Torskeklubben w/pack
Light red paper
55 km Birkie Lite
Light green paper
31 km Birkie Tour
White paper
13 km Global Edmonton Tour
Light blue paper
2/4 km Ole’s Tour – E Construction
Yellow paper
Skied 10 or more 55 km Canadian Birkebeiners
Purple cloth
Skied 20 or more 55 km Canadian Birkebeiners
Blue cloth
Skied all 28 previous 55 km Canadian Birkebeiners
Red cloth
In an effort to reduce, reuse and recycle, we ask that if you have a Red, Blue or Purple cloth bib from previous years that you re-use it or bring in any extras you may have to the Registration Table. We have a special Birkie gift at the Registration Table for those who reuse. canadianbirkie.com
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COURSE PROFILES
www.xcountryab.net
Visit our website at
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CANADIAN BIRKEBEINER AWARDS Awards – Festival Tent Age Group awards will be presented on site in the Festival Tent. Awards Ceremonies will be held hourly from 12 - 3 pm pending receipt of official results. If you are in the top three in your age and gender category, please present yourself to the volunteers at the Awards table prior to the ceremony.
Ole Hovind Award Ole Hovind was one of the pioneers of skiing in Alberta, active from the 1920's to the 1980's. He had significant influence over the people who would become the founders of the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival. The Ole Hovind Award was created at the very first Birkie in 1985 in Ole's memory and is presented annually to the skier who best represents the spirit of the Birkebeiner and the things which Ole valued – skiing for the sheer joy of it, having fun, joking a lot, achieving something and just getting out there and doing it.
Awards presented will include: male and female age group in the 55 km Birkie with pack and Birkie Lite, and the 31 km classic event. Age group awards are not presented in the 13 km Global John Toonen Award Edmonton or 2/4 km Ole's Tour. John Toonen was one of the original participants of the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival, a Haakonsson award winner, and a red Medallions for 55 km event first time finishers will be at the bib skier (skied every Birkie for the first 15 years). John passed Finish Line and 55 km year pins will be available in the Festival away in 2002 at the age of 57. His spirit lives on through the Tent for those who have previously skied a 55 km event. John Toonen Memorial Award; a beautiful wooden plaque with Top three overall winners, male and female, in the 55 km Birkie recipient names etched on individual plates. This award is presented annually to the oldest or youngest skier in a 55 km with pack and Birkie Lite, and the 31 km classic event. event, the last finisher of the event, international skier or to other skiers deemed worthy.
Awards – Vikings' Feast
Unique Awards include: Haakon Haakonson Award Ole Hovind Award John Toonen Award and Canadian Birkebeiner Founders' and Builders' Awards Haakon Haakonsson Award The Haakon Haakonsson award recognizes dedication to the Birkebeiner tradition. It is an award that is exclusive to the Canadian Birkebeiner, but awards all skiers who have skied in the Norwegian, American and Canadian Birkebeiner longdistance events. In addition to receiving a beautiful handcrafted stein, recipients' names are preserved for posterity on the CANBi shields housed in the Canadian and American Birkebeiner offices. Over 140 skiers from Canada, the USA, and other international skiers have earned this award since its inception in 1992. Founders' and Builders' Awards This award was first introduced in 2013 to recognize those individuals or groups who worked to create the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival and/or who have been a key contributor to growing the event over the years. Founders will receive their awards at the Vikings' Feast and Builders will receive theirs at the Volunteer Orientation and Appreciation Party. Outstanding Contribution Award The Outstanding Contribution Award is presented to an individual or group who is or has been a key contributor to the Birkie over the years, or in a unique, exceptional way over a shorter period of time.
Photo by Glenda Hanna
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Stay Connected! Follow the fun on Birkie Day as we post updates, results and photos on our social media feeds! #SKISINFLIGHT
Facebook: /cdnbirkie Twitter: @canadianbirkie Instagram: canadianbirkie
Photography Birkie Photographers will be taking pictures of the events and participants during the day. A photo slideshow will be presented at the Vikings' Feast and available on the website shortly thereafter.
is proud to support Canada’s Premier Ski Event!
Visit
www.GoEastofEdmonton.com
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Provincial Park Regulations Courses and Finish Line are staged in a Provincial Recreation Area and all rules and regulations must be followed. No alcohol is allowed in the park. Dogs are not allowed on the ski trails, and must be leashed in the parking lots and pedestrian areas. Bikes must be kept off the ski trails. Do not litter along the ski trails. Thank you for following the rules and being courteous. Skiing is not allowed at or out of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village except on Birkie Day. Pre-race training on the long courses at that end of the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot PRA may be accessed through the Blackfoot Staging Area east of the UCHV site.
Lost and Found A Lost and Found box is located in the Clothing Tent in the Finish/Stadium Area. Unclaimed items will be taken to the Birkie office for pickup; email or call the office if you're missing something. At the end of April unclaimed articles will be donated to charity.
Unclaimed Awards We encourage you to pick up all awards on-site. Unclaimed awards can be picked up at the office after the event.
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS King Haakon Circle Torskeklubben
Strathcona County
Special Event Rentals
Global Edmonton
City of Edmonton
Alberta Parks
E Construction
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
Prince Haakon Circle Melcor Totem Outdoor OutďŹ tters
Inga Fra Varteig Circle Alley Kat Brewing Company
Lamont County
Campers Village
MEC
Elk Island National Park
Ostrem Chemical
Fast Trax
Salomon
KinFox Consulting
SWIX
Lambert Intellectual Property Law
Track 'n Trail
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United Cycle
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Canadian Birkebeiner Society 2017 - 2018 Board of Directors
Food Stations Ass’t Chief of Food Stations Ass’t Chief of Food Stations Long Start Medical Medical Patrol-Long Events Past President Cam McGregor Registration Director – Program Services Bas Delaney Director – Marketing Leandra Grenier-Green Registration Co-chief Recording Secretary Director – Human Resources Dave Johnston Safety Director – Sponsorship Dave McCashin Short Start Director – Festival Mae Nandlall Signage Director at Large Roberta Hyland Director at Large George Foxcroft Stadium Set Up/Takedown Director at Large Natalie Kristoff Stadium-Clothing Tent Ex-Officio Keith Bocking Timing/Finish Line Ass’t Timing/Finish Line 2017 - 2018 Loppet (Technical) Commitee Transportation Jim Black Chief of Loppet Volunteer Coordinator Cooking Lake/ Greg Elzinga Ass’t Volunteer Coordinator Blackfoot PRA Ranger Chief of Birkie Sunday Ben Featherstone Blackfoot Operations Chief of Full Moon Birkie Frank Key Blackfoot Support Technical Delegate Communications Greg Elzinga Chief of Course George Foxcroft Staff Basil Delaney Ass’t Chief of Course Birkie Coordinator Equipment/Logistics Randy Stebner Birkie Administrator Festival Tent Mike Berezan President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Chief of Loppet
Ass’t Festival Tent
Mark Ryan Dave Cooper Lawrence Vincent Peter Kershaw Jim Black
Allen Jacobson Nicole Brenda
Chad Gjertsen
The Birkie would like to thank the following: Supporting Suppliers and Contributors: Ad-Mart Alberta Emergency Management Alberta Traffic Supply Ltd Amptec/3D Fire & Safety Arrkann RV Brian Lucas Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions Budget Rent-a-Car of Sherwood Park Carillion Cosmopolitan Music Society Doreen Topping Earth Friendly Fast Fence Rentals JaN Studios Kastelen Sausage & Fine Meats KDL Audio Productions Martin Deerline Revolution Cycle St. John Ambulance
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Lawrence Vincent Ross Johnson Grant Chaney Karen Johnsrud Megan Findlay Elle Surgent Dave McCashin Kirsten van der Meer Jim Wiley Carolene Kuschminder Greg Elzinga Liana Luard Brian Lucas Dave Johnston Laura Mcilveen Aaron Dodds Victoria Lee Mike Stern Robert Chapman James Wark George Foxcroft Basil Delaney Mike Dickinson
Sentinel Self-Storage Sobeys Nottingham Sons of Norway Sparky's Electrical Services Strathcona Emergency Services The Marketer / TourismSolutions.ca The Woodrack Café Tour de l'Alberta Vinok Worldance Whale Tail Graphics Zeebest Plastics of Canada Inc. Zorzos Framing Friends of the Birkie: A Friend of the Birkie is an organization or individual that promotes the Festival or contributes in some other way to the Birkie. Alberta Environment and Parks, Parks Division Staff Alberta Environment and Parks, Parks Division Volunteers Alberta Trail Riders Association (FS) Garry Atchison, Meteorologist Blackfoot Grazing Association canadianbirkie.com
Blackfoot Ultra Marathon (FS) Canadian Progress Club of Sherwood Park (FS) Cross Country Alberta Cross Country Canada Edmonton Attendance Centre, Alberta Justice and Solicitor General Edmonton Bicycle and Touring Club (FS) Edmonton Examiner Edmonton Nordic Ski Club Edmonton Overlanders Orienteering Club (FS) Friends of Blackfoot Society Grant MacEwan Mountain Club (FS) Margaret Toonen 175th Southwood Scouting Group (FS) St. Albert Community Information and Volunteer Centre Strathcona County Information and Volunteer Centre Strathcona Wilderness Centre University of Alberta Outdoor Club (FS) Verner Steinbru Waskahegan Trail Association (FS) FS = Food Station Hosts
LAMBERT
Take it Outside
Intellectual • Property • Law
Wishes all participants an enjoyable day of outdoor activity, and thanks all volunteers for this excellent event.
10148 - 82 Ave, Edmonton, AB Ph: 780-432-1707 (Toll Free: 1-888-432-1707)
www.lambertlaw.ca 780-448-0606 #200 10328 - 81 Avenue, Edmonton, AB
shop.trackntrail.ca
Our Skier Donors 2017 (Skier donors Jan. 12 to Feb 10, 2017) King Haakon Level ($100+) Cathy Flood Matt Parliament Curtiss McLeod Christopher Power
Prince Haakon Level ($50-99) Nigel Jackman Inga Fra Varteig ($1-49) Tim Melton Darrell Corie Terry Purewal
Bob Stenhouse Patrick Melton Edi Klopfenstein Nicole Klopfenstein Steven Brese William McEnery
Scott Sievers Larry Wall Mike Wipf Augusto Gamerdinger Jan Hanot
Our Skier Donors 2018 (Skier donors up to Jan 23, 2018) King Haakon Level ($100+) Gerald Streefkerk Prince Haakon Level ($50-99) Liz Herbert Curtiss McLeod Henriette Kelker Inga Fra Varteig ($1-49) June MacGregor Nick Holt Jonathan Woelber
Cameron McGregor Cal Lenz JF Addicott Jim Thomson Daniel Smith Gerhard Lotz Klaus Huckfeldt Courtney Borstad Russell Sehn Irvin Servold Kenton Johnson
Tina Ma-Hemingson Terry Purewal Meredith McKague Dr. Garry Gibson Douglas Holtan Damien Lachat Kristen Peck
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ABOUT THE CANADIAN BIRKEBEINER SOCIETY The Canadian Birkebeiner Society is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1985 by five enthusiastic Skiers whose main purpose was to organize the annual Ski Festival and to promote cross-country skiing. The name “Birkebeiner” was registered as a Canadian Trademark in 1996. The Society is comprised of a volunteer Board, Loppet Committee and two part-time staff members. They all work together to ensure a successful, sustainable and enjoyable Birkie. Volunteers are integral to the society and the Birkie event and we are pleased to have over 550 volunteers donating over 10,000 “human hours” annually. A great way to contribute, meet new people and share your passion for this sport and community. Visit the Website for more information and to register as a Volunteer: http://canadianbirkie.com/become-a-birkie-volunteer
The Birkebeiner Legend: Skiing Through History In the year 1206 a civil war raged in Norway. The infant prince and direct heir to the throne, Haakon Haakonsson, was in danger and being hidden near Lillehammer. Two brave Birkebeiner warriors rescued the prince and carried him to safety; skiing 55 kilometres over two mountain ranges in the dead of winter. The young prince, later crowned King of Norway, ended the civil war and brought great peace and prosperity to the land. The English translation of Birkebeiner is “Birchlegs”, which described the warriors’ snow gaiters/battle leg protection, made of birch bark wrapped around the lower legs and secured with leather straps. Today, Birkebeiner has come to mean a person strong in adversity; never daunted by trial and hardship. The dramatic flight of the Birchlegs and the Infant Prince is commemorated every year by the Norwegian Birkebeinerrennet ski race which parallels the historic route over the mountains between Lillehammer and Rena. In 1985, some 127 hardy participants participated in the first “Canadian Birkebeiner” in very cold conditions, reminiscent of the brutal winter in the original Norwegian Birchlegs saga. Since 1985, tens of thousands of skiers have relived the legend here, many skiing the premier event - 55 kilometres with a 5.5 kg pack. The Canadian Birkebeiner, with distances for all ages and abilities, has grown to become the largest and friendliest cross-country ski festival in Western Canada, and second largest in Canada.
JOIN US NEXT YEAR...
Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival
TM
FEBRUARY 8-10, 2019
Canadian Birkebeiner Society # 103, 9920 63 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta Canada T6E 0G9 Phone 780-430-7153 Email: ski@canadianbirkie.com 26
www.canadianbirkie.com
Connect with us!
29th Take a piece of the Birkie home with you!
Tuberz
Cooltech Cap
Selfie Stick
Knit Scarf
Long Sleeve Tech Shirt
Cardinal Tee
Sapphire Tee
Knit Mittens Mens Vest
Ladies Vest
The Canadian Birkebeiner is proud to partner with the MS Society:
The
Marketer
Proud publisher of the print & online Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival Program See more online Guides & Brochures at www.GoEastofEdmonton.com/The-Marketer Jolene Kisilevich - Design & Digital Publishing jolenek.design@gmail.com
780.632.6191
SPIRIT OF THE SKI
Birkie Day Volunteers! There are approximately 550 volunteers helping you enjoy your Birkie! Most volunteers wear a maroon “volunteer” bib. Officials, chiefs and the photography crew will also have an orange arm band to identify them on Birkie Day.
Please thank the volunteers during the day – We couldn't run the Birkie without them.
Thank you Volunteers!