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Birkie Forum
Steph ·
Thank you to all the volunteers and to the fun cheering people on the course. It was my first 50k Birkie and my first 50k ever. If it wasn't for all the volunteers who obviously devote a ton of their personal time selflessly, this would not be the best race ever to attend! Birkie volunteers and the people cheering rock!
Rick Goldin ·
This is my second year of making this post with the solution for those of you who struggle with muscle cramps during the race..PICKLE JUICE (about 4 oz midway through the race) and ROLAIDS (which contain magnesium) ....once again using those two remedies no cramps this year and 20 minutes faster time than 3 years ago, when I had to put up with the cramps..
Jo Anne ·
Thanks to all of the Birkie folks, volunteers, GROOMERS!, and skiers. Tis was my second Birkie (classic) and in a season without snow down here in Oneida, WI. The trails were pure striding bliss and wahoo downhills. The volunteers were super and the check-in was quick and flawless. You have outdone yourselves again!
Kathleen ·
How do I submit a Birkie fever story? I'm stationed at the South Pole and missed the Birkie, so I ran my own down here in -50F temps!
Ralph Thornton ·
You might contact Sunsan Kendrick at media@birkie.com
Tom Mowery ·
Thank You Thank You Thank You to all the people who worked to make the 2012 Birkie happen. I had my doubts looking at the snow reports (and traveling from Georgia), but the trail crews had it in beautiful shape. And all the volunteers for bibs, and food stations, and gear bags, and the bus drivers, and everyone was just great. Many thanks! The Birkie couldn't be what it is without you!!!
Eric ·
Anyone have any thoughts on why the top Classic skiers were so much slower this year compared to last? Was the course really 20 minutes slower this year?? I thought it was faster myself but I guess a few hundred skiers had already gone through by the time I did.
astarsk ·
i was also surprised by the slow classic times. perhaps the fresh snow in the first 1/2 of the race slowed things down.
David Lovgren ·
My friend and I were just discussing this also. We both started Wave 4, his time was good enough for Wave 1. We're just two guys waxing in the hotel room, no professional help. Nobody was passing us on the downhills but, we sure went by quite a few. I was going by some of the skaters on the downhills. Good grip all the time. Not sure why the winners were so much slower.
Kate Karshna ·
How do I get my virtual race bag? If there was something at the bib pickup, I missed it.
Kate Karshna ·
Never mind, I see the link on the home page now.
Ken Hundert ·
To the Groomers,
You ARE artistes; you deserve the equivalent of an Oscar, a B-OSCAR?
The classic trail was spectacular!
Thank you for transformin' "screamin' downhills" into symphonic downhills.
Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!
j ·
What a beautiful day that was! Total redemption of a crappy snow-less winter.
And thank you volunteers!!
Stever ·
To the people who stopped to dig me out of the snow after a wipeout on that last big hill with the right hand turn around 49 or 50k, must have been around 4pm or 415pm...I didn't get your names, but thanks for making it possible for me to finish. If you hadn't unknotted me and pulled my ski out of the snow I'd probably still be there. Amazing my knee didn't blow on that one. Thanks a million!
mj ·
that is a great post!!! that is what the Birkie is all about. It is about personal goal and crossing the finish line. I am so glad you were able to ski down main street!!!! I to thank the people that helped you out. The Birkie is the best don't stop skiing!!!!!!!!!!
Veronica ·
Does anyone know the company that was taking the professional photos during and after the race? is it still Action Sports International?
Brendan ·
Brightroom http://www2.brightroom.com/96290
With a little searching, I found why ASI doesn't have anything recently listed, they sold themselves to brightroom according to the lawyers http://www.zakasleonard.com/about-2/recent-transactions/
Usually it's easier to find the photographer at most races but it's easiest with the Birkie …
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Ralph Thornton ·
Just got my email from Brightroom. I skied the Classic race but I got the photos of a guy with the same bib number skiing the Skate race. Second, the photos are pretty poor. It's obvious to me that the photographers don't ski or have not studied the optimal poses for ski technique. If a wedding photog shot like that they'd never get work. My friend took two photos of me on Main street and they are both better than Brightrooms. AND she never used the camera I gave her before.
Derek ·
I thought that the opening comments (I think that he was from the Cable Chamber) at the awards ceremony were spot on and really explain why the majority of skiers keep coming back to do a race with no chance of winning anything. Also, Vegard's remarks were very nice.
And of course the slide show was great as always.
Saloman Water Belt Found ·
If you left a red Saloman Water belt with a young couple that gave you a ride from OO to the finish, email cavicity2@gmail.com to get it back.
Monster headphones ·
Monster headphones - http://www.monsterheadphonessaleonline.com
beats by dr dre - http://www.monsterheadphonessaleonline.com
Monster Cable - http://www.monsterheadphonessaleonline.com
tiffany & co. - http://www.jewelry…
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duluth curler ·
Lost - Red and Black 'Mesabi East Ski Team' hat near the 3k mark. Please email me at norl0054 <at> d(dot)umn(dot)edu if you found it. Thanks much! Great race yesterday Thanks Everyone! ~tony
Ken Frame ·
Found Craft ski jacket with Birkie logos on it, in men's changing tent. Please email me at kenframe@centurytel.net to get it back to you. Contained something unique in the pocket that you should be able to identify. :)
Nicki ·
Our accommodations fell through at the last minute in Hayward. Just wondering if there was any hotels/motel rooms available for two Canadians from Thunder Bay, arriving Friday leaving Sunday? I'm in grad school and my boyfriend is my cheerleader for the day. Trying to avoid the high school gym floor if possible. Contact: nyourouk@lakeheadu.ca
Mark ·
Who out there is skiing the Birkie on waxless skis??? Let me hear you!!! nothing wrong with waxless skis they may be a little noisier and slower but you get a better workout!!!! So let's hear it all you Birkie waxless skiers!!!!!
MJ ·
If I were to get a pair of waxless skis that that would take wax on the tips and tails what ski would I get. I am 6'6" and about 235lbs.
Derek ·
At 6'6 you are probably looking at 210cm for a recreational or below top model. The no wax racing skis that are the same as the waxable except that they have a no wax pattern. Those skis have more flex (soft, med, hard) choices, and are also tested for weight limits. So your chances of getting a better fitting ski are far greater. All that being said I got a great fitting waxable Fischer SC. The best advice is to find a shop that will work to match the ski to you.
Mike Healy ·
A room for two to four people has become available in Hayward at the Riverside Motel due to an injury. If you are interested email me at asbuilt@hotmail.com and we can arrange to get you staying for three nights 5 blocks from the finish line.
Sigurd ·
I have one entry for the 50k Skate for sale. Here is the chance if you want to go the Birkie, but did not sign up soon enough! Contact:livga004@umn.edu
Susan Kendrick ·
IMPORTANT: Bib Transfers, i.e. selling your bib, is NOT allowed. Please see the following under "Rules and Regulations" on the Birkie website - http://www.birkie.com/page/show/110369-race-rules-and-regulations
"Do not allow another skier to use your bib. If this does occur, the time will be disqualified from the race and you and the person using your bib will be required to …
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Charlie ·
LODGE ROOM AVAILABLE @ Four Seasons Resort on Lake Namakagon, near Cable. 4 nights: 2/22 - 2/25/12. $95/night per 2 people. Can sleep up to 4 people. Room has a queen & a double bed. Private bath, towels, TV, mini fridge and microwave. Easy access toTelemark Lodge & Birkie parking. Contact: snomann@comcast.net
Ken Hundert ·
Trade-offs! Noise of waxless skis versus the quiet of waxables. Slow downhills with waxless
compared to waxables. Perhaps better grip on the uphills with waxless, for the last 15 km's.
You mentioned you were a "classic" Birkie skier. There are no "classic" waxless skis! No criticism, just
an observation. Birkie Fever risin'. Good luck; enjoy.
Skintec ·
No classic waxless skis? Sure there are. Atomic Skintecs are great just to name one. Check them out.
Ken Hundert ·
To: Skintec
"Classic" refers to skiing before "waxless" and/or skating technique.
One can certainly have waxless skis for the classic technique but not "classic waxless skis". The difference is as significant as klister is to green hard wax.
Mark ·
I am a middle of the pack classic Birkie skier. My kick-waxing skills are mediocre at best. With the non-existant winter thus far, I have had done no skiing on waxable skis and only a bit on my waxless skis. The weather forecast seems to be pointing towards transformed snow and temps close to freezing. Does this suggest using waxless skis instead of waxable? What conditions would be better for a waxless ski versus a waxable one?
jim ·
bring both waxables and waxless and ask questions at the waxing booths on Friday, e.g. swix, Gear West etc. I would think waxless are ideal for non-ideal conditions like 35 degree F
Flori ·
(Someone already asked this question 3 weeks ago I noticed, but didn't get a reply)
Does someone know if there is ANY live coverage of the Birkie on the internet? I couldn't find anything. Maybe some blog? At the European Worldloppet races they post split times as they come in.
Thanks!
Matti Koivula ·
My fiancé and I are looking for a place to stay in Hayward/Cable area from Friday to Saturday OR Friday to Sunday. I'm racing and she will be cheering. We are both graduate students so something affordable would be nice such as an available hotel/motel room someone can't use or a spare room. We don't need much, just a bed and access to shower. And we are very quiet and responsible. Please email: mkoivula@gmail.com
Matti ·
Got one. Thank you.
Birkie Skier ·
Single queen room, poolside, at AmericInn Thursday night through Sunday night. $500 for the three nights. Email birkieski@gmail.com.
Matt Bloedel ·
House for Rent next to Telemark Resort for Birkie - see below for details and link to photos...
1996 built Chalet - short walking distance to Telemark (on Telemark Golf Course). 3000 Square Foot home for rent for Birkie. Sleeps 8. Master Suite with whirlpool bath. Loft with 2 beds. Guest Bedroom with 2 beds. Garage for waxing. $500/night for minimum of two nights.
Go to http://cablechalet.blogspot.com for photos
Troy ·
The Prebirke is this weekend is there anyone from southeastern wisconsin that would want to carpool? i would be up for leaving either friday night or saturday morning and coming back after the race. email duckman_1@charter.net
Kevin Fores ·
We have a double queen room available at the Flat Creek Inn for Thursday night thru Saturday night. Total is $360. Email kjfores@hotmail.com
Christine/ Modern Hayward WI home ·
I have a 3 bedroom home that sleeps 8, kids could camp out on floor for $700/night. Located in the city of Hayward. Clean and providing linens. Gas fireplace and full kitchen. Direct TV. Would be ideal for a couple of families! Very spacious and right in the city. Large 2 car attached garage to wax your skis! Close to the National Log Rolling off Hwy B. I do have a short haired cat that would not be there at the time but wanted to mention if you have allergies. Very modern 1400 sq. Foot log side… Read More
Barry ·
I have already secured lodging in Barnes but am second guessing my decision to stay that far away from the race. Wondering if anybody knows of a place for my wife and I to stay for Th-SU morning. It would just be the 2 of us and would like to be closer to Cable if possible. Thanks.
barryrotman@yahoo.com
Ralph Thornton ·
I used to stay in Barnes during the Birkie a long time ago. The lodging I had there was free but it was a fair distance from the various events, especially those in Hayward. Try calling hotels in Hayward as they often have last minute cancellations.
Dave ·
Barry and all,
I am committed to a place on Moose Lake that sleeps 8. Never been there, but looks nice. I originally hadbcommitments from friends whonhad to back out. So it will be me, my wife and 17 year old daughter only. We are looking to share the place wit 2-4 others. If interested, please email me at dhart6288@gmail.com
winonan ·
is there an online tracking system for the birkie that family/friends can watch as I'm racing?
Nick Raisanen ·
Have any skate skiers ever developed shoulder problems? WIth this weird winter my training has consisted of periods of no skiing followed by 2-3 days straight of heavy skiing. After one of these periods my right shoulder is very sore, I suspect from poor form skiing up hills. It hurts to lift my arm up and to make circles with that arm. Anybody have any information on shoulder stretches and/or light strengthening exercises?
sam ·
I'm a family doctor and suspect you probably have rotator cuff tendonitis, an overuse injury of the shoulder. I have the same thing. I'd recommend you see your family doctor, since a few sessions of physical therapy may be helpful before you aggravate it further. Try ice after workouts, and Advil if no contraindications.
samseltz@msn.com ·
I am skiing my first classic Birkie this year. I usually ski Afton State Park. Would anyone who has done the Birkie and Afton State Park be willing to compare terrain and grooming?
Rick Goldin ·
My lodging arrangements just fell through and I'm looking for a place to stay and share costs Friday/Saturday night...I have a ride from Chicago area and my friends will drop me off..please email me at skiwaterdog@yahoo.com
Rick Goldin ·
Thank you Birkie forum I lined up lodging :)
About LOST- ·
The Atomic Ski bag has been found and returned, THANKS SO MUCH TO THE HONEST AND CONSIDERATE FOLKS IN CAMBLESPORT, WI Who have been trying to locate us. WE are very, very grateful. Happy Trails again.......Hope can return the favor some day.
John Altman ·
LOST -Atomic bag at Zillmer Park, in Camblesport, WI on Sunday 1-22-12 please call me know if know anything. Reward offered. 920-574-0949 or 920-284-2281
Telemark ·
Birkie lodging right at Telemark resort. Walk to Birkie/Korte start! Smaller condo sleeps 2-3. Available all week; you pick the number of nights. Negotiable. Madconsigny@sbcglobal.net
Jim Clapp ·
Could I rent the smaller condo just for Friday nite? Need to get back to work on Sunday
Jim
We have a 3 bedroom house available for Birkebeiner weekend that ·
We have a 3 bedroom house available for Birkie weekend - sleeps 8 to 10 people - within walking distance to Start of race. Chalet style house is located on Telemark golf course. Please email for details, photos. Thanks. mattbloedel@yahoo.com
Dorsey ·
Any of you classic skiers using Rex PowerGrip for your kick wax - how do you like it?
James ·
I would also like to hear from skiers regarding kick wax. After about 25k at last year's Birkie, I lost any grip I had and attempts to re-wax were futile. Any help would be appreciated.
j ·
For a long ski, I iron in two layer of binder and then iron in one layer of the wax of the day. I cork about 10 thin layers of additional kick wax on top of that. Last year, my kick wax stayed with me the whole way.
Amber Dolphin ·
I just was able to ski for the first time a week ago and realized I have two different poles. (The last time I skied before that was the Birkie.) I feel terrible that I took someone else's pole or perhaps they accidentally grabbed one of mine and one of theirs but in my cold, frost-bitten state my dad got them for me and I didn't notice until this year when I had two right handed poles! Perhaps the person who came up a pole short saw my single left handed one and grabbed that too? If so, we coul… Read More
Gene ·
My search for lodging about seven posts down (coming from Bozeman) has to be withdrawn. While descending a local canyon trail, a dog ran between my legs and the result, after landing was a broken wrist. No Birkie this year.
Mary ·
I have available lodging at the resort. Please list your contact info.
Sara ·
We have a room for 2 skiers in a new large construction rental home. $200 each for Thursday-Sunday. Email at muffinstumble@yahoo.com if interested.
Eric ·
Does anyone know if it is possible to withdraw my registration from this year's event? I haven't been able to train any this year since there has been 0 snow :(
Ralph Thornton ·
I'm pretty sure there would be no refund. You can easily withdraw from the Birkie by not picking up your bib.
On the other hand the Birkie is such a fun event that you might consider changing to the Korteloppet. There's a fee for that but it can be done. You might also consider lowering your racing expectations. There will be many in the lower level of training group due to the lower amount of early season snowfall. Do the race as a tour, earn your medal or pin and plan for a better tra…
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DJ ·
Can anyone tell me where the best classic ski trails are located in the WI Rapids area? Also, is anyone looking for a classic skiing partner. I am new to the area and once we get snow I would like to get out with somebody and ski.
M C ·
Hi! I have a question about the Birkie classic course I hope someone can answer.
I understand the classic tracks are groomed 3 across for the classic trail. Is there still room on the side on downhills to get out of the tracks completely, in order to safely get down the hill? Many times I am not comfortable with the speed and restriction of tracks on hills, and must snowplow somewhat down hills before popping back in them to get up the next hill, etc. Can you please let me know mo…
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Kjell Erlandsson ·
There is plenty of room to snow plow!
Seabiscuit ·
Thank you for the replies. Is there really room to snowplow on the WHOLE 54k course? Even the classic trail when there are more tracks? Thanks!
Sarah Halberg ·
Did anyone find a Garmin Forerunner 305 watch/gps at last years race? My husband last saw his watch in the changing tent at the finish of the Birkie. We would LOVE to have it back. No questions asked!!!
715-634-9106
Greg Miller ·
Thank you volunteers. You are great!. Everyone I know thinks I was insane for trying a berkie at all and now they are completely convinced that i am totally insane for trying my 3rd one I just don't understand how a slug butt like myself ended up in wave 6 classic? I registered the first week you could but my times the last two years could be more accurately be take with a calendar rather than a watch. See ya all in Cable and hopefully in Hayward. Live the Berkie.
Derek Axell ·
Just wondering, since I registered late and I am stuck in wave 8 classic. If there is a wooden ski division.?????? Anyone know????
Susan Kendrick ·
Derek-
There is not a wooden ski division, but it might be fun to do the race that way.
How many others out there ski the event on wooden skis?
Rick Price ·
I skied the kortie 3 years ago on woodies. It was great. Gt lots of hoots and comments along the way.
Simpson Gunn ·
Training Plan Question: Pierce's training plan calls for intervals at "5-10 heart beats below your 10-15k race pace." I don't race, so I've tried to estimate this pace. To me, this means a beat or two below lactate threshold.
Thoughts?
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