Highlights
 NNF Announces Support of the 2012 J1 Scandinavian Cup Team
February 2, 2012
The 2012 J1 Scandinavian Cup Team trip will receive up to $12,000 in support from NNF. The Junior Scandinavian Championship “Scando Cup” will be Feb 14-27, 2012 in Mammaste, Estonia. Midwest skiers Adam Martin and Nichole Bathe will be competing.
Biathlon: Outstanding Oslo World Cup Sprint Opener for Team USA
February 2, 2012
Team USA had an outstanding opening day highlighted by strong performances at the range and on the track at the IBU World Cup 7 at Holmenkollen in Oslo, Norway today as three skiers placed in the top 25, including Lowell Bailey in 8th.
US Ski Team: Diggins Leads Historic USA Finish
February 2, 2012
USSA: On a day that saw three American women square off in the semifinals, young Jessie Diggins led the USA with a career best sixth in zero temperatures in the Moscow sprints. FIS World Cup sprint leader Kikkan Randall was seventh, failing to make finals in a close semifinal finish. Ida Sargent had a career best 12th. Justyna Kowalczyk of Poland won for the women with Sweden's Teodor Peterson taking the men’s title.
Minneapolis IPC Nordic Skiing World Cup Coverage
February 1, 2012
The IPC World Cup is at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis for two days of racing Wednesday and Thursday. And there will also be some participation in the Loppet events on Saturday and Sunday.
Related:
Photoset from David Owen:  Wednesday, Thursday
Photoset from Eve Stein: Wednesday
U.S. Skiers Fare Well in IPC World Cup Sprint Races
Cnossen Notches 5th Top 10 World Cup Finish
Minneapolis IPC Nordic Skiing World Cup at Theodore Wirth Park
January 30, 2012
After wrapping up events in Cable, the IPC World Cup moves to Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis for two days of racing. Wednesday and Thursday will be actual competition days, with practice on Tuesday and participation in the Loppet events on Saturday and Sunday.
Iola Norseman Challenge Results
January 29, 2012
Matt Nichols edged out Thomas Stuber in the 20K Iola Norseman Challenge Sunday. Lindsey Marshall was the womens winner. Eddie Gurney and Krista White won the 10K classical titles.
Related:
SMU 10K Results Posted
Tour de Twin Cities Freestyle Coverage
January 29, 2012
The Tour de Twin Cities wrapped up Sunday with another set of six races, this time featuring a freestyle pursuit format based off the classical finishes on Saturday. Matt Liebsch put in strong race, skiing with a lead pack for roughly half the race before breaking away on the final laps to take the victory (Brenton Knight posted the top skate time). Caitlin Gregg moved into the lead of the womens race early on and cruised in for the womens title. In the boys OJ/J1 race, Jan Ketterson stormed to the victory ahead of Chris Parr. The girls OJ/J1 race saw Hanne Guthrie move up to take the girls title just in front of Nikki Reker. Mattie Watts held off challengers to take the girls J2 race (Alayna Sonnesyn posted the top skate time). Sean Cork overtook Steve Hokanson for the J2 boys race (Zak Ketterson had the top skate time).
Related:
Photoset: SuperTour Women 15K - 118 photos, SuperTour Men 20K - 175 photos, Girls OJ/J1 10K - 80 photos, Boys OJ/J1 10K - 106 photos, Girls J2 5K - 70 photos, Boys J2 5K - 81 photos
Photoset from David Owen: Tour de Twin Cities Freestyle
Photoset from Todd Bauer: Girls OJ/J1, Boys OJ/J1
Results: 5K, 10K, 15K, 20K freestyle
Matt Liebsch Wins Tour de Twin Cities
CCSA: Irwin, Hecker capture first CCSA wins at Green Acres skate events
Marine/O'Brien Results
January 29, 2012
Pulling a race off in natural snow in the metro, the Marine/O'Brien miracle drew over 120 skiers to the William O'Brien State Park trails. In the big 21K skate race, Derek Wallen and Hilary Patzer topped the nearly 100 deep field. Andrew Tilman and Sara Zimmermann-White won the 21K classic. In the 10.5K race, freestyle titles went to Per Nelson and Amy Johnson, classic victories for Isaak Ridge and Angie Robinson.
Vasaloppet Update
January 29, 2012
Vasaloppet organizers are still hopeful for more snowfall to run the full race course in mid-February, but they have been evaluating Knife Lake as a backup plan.
Related:
Racing Outlook
Moraloppet Ski for the Cure Update
Moraloppet Ski for the Cure Tour Now a Walk
Noquemanon Results
January 28, 2012
Racing over near perfect snow conditions, more than 1000 skiers in the 2012 edition of the Noquemanon ski races. In the big 50K freestyle race, Michael Brothers posted the top time while Paulette Niemi collected yet another womens title. Santiago Ocariz and Natalia Naryshkina won the 50K classical races. In the 24K freestyle, victories went to Andrew Bruning and Monica Markvardsen. Erik Soderman and Jordyn Ross topped the 24K classical fields. Full results linked in.
Tour de Twin Cities Classical Coverage
January 28, 2012
An incredibly exciting Saturday for racing at Green Acres for the Tour de Twin Cities classical races. The events all featured a mass start format and the flow of the Green Acres trail system made for fantastic spectator viewing. Matt Liebsch provided the biggest excitement of the day, breaking a pole at the start then storming back to lose by a hair in a photo finish for the mens 10K SuperTour race. Jennie Bender went off the front early and posted a nice margin in her victory in the womens 5K. J1 titles went to Chris Parr and Annie Harvieux, J2 crowns for Steve Hokanson and Mattie Watts. (Photo: Sean Gavigan) Note: Citizen racers will start with SuperTour fields on Sunday.
Related:
Photoset from Todd Bauer: Boys OJ/J1
Video:  SuperTour Mens 10K Recap, SuperTour Womens 5K Recap, Boys OJ/J1 10K Recap, Girls OJ/J1 5K Recap, Boys J2 5K Recap, Girls J2 5K Recap
Video from Rosie Curry: Mens SuperTour 10K Start Crash
Results: 5K, 10K classical
Matt Liebsch Race Recap by Greg Bernhardt.
CCSA: Eriksson, Harju claim college wins, lift Michigan Tech at Green Acres SuperTour
City of Lakes Loppet Going to Wirth
January 28, 2012
The City of Lakes Loppet organizers announced Saturday morning that the 2012 edition will be held exclusively at Theodore Wirth Park. This includes all of the Saturday events, like the Luminary Loppet, ski-jor races, and other festival activities.
Cable IPC Nordic Skiing World Cup Coverage
January 26, 2012
International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is holding Nordic Skiing World Cup events at Telemark Lodge in Cable January 26-30 featuring some of the world's best cross country skiers with physical disabilities.
Related:
Photoset from JoJo Baldus: Saturday Events - 160 photos
Photoset from Eve Stein: Cable IPC Photos, Set 2, Set 3, Set 4
Photoset from Kelly Randolph: Cable IPC Photos
Video: Live Video Coverage
IPC Nordic Skiing World Cup Midwest Events
Brelsford, Cnossen lead U.S. in first day of 2012 IPC Nordic Skiing World Cup
Windy Conditions Challenge Biathlon Athletes
U.S. Athletes Crack Top 10 in Biathlon Long-course
Cnossen, Halsted moving up in 2012 IPC Nordic Skiing World Cup
Mayor's Challenge Sprints
January 25, 2012
The Mayor's Challenge series of events wrapped up Wednesday evening with a sprint prologue. Skiers competed on a 1.4K to post the top time. Tim Reynolds and Jennie Bender bested the fields with times of 2:46.18 and 3:13.39, respectively. The Tour de Twin Cities moves to Green Acres for two days of racing this weekend.
Related:
Photoset from David Owen: Sprints
Results: Sprints
Chequamegon Lottery Entries Now Available
January 24, 2012
Hoping to ride the big Chequamegon 40 mountain bike race next fall? Entries are awarded by lottery draw only, so sumbit your registration by March 15th to be entered in the drawing.
Lappe Invitational Results
January 22, 2012
Phil Brown reports: Nordic ski racers from ages three to 63 competed in the 33rd Annual Lappe Invitational this weekend. Skiers from Thunder Bay's Big Thunder & Lappe Nordic Ski Clubs as well as the Kamview Jackrabbits took part in the two day event. Saturday's individual time trial, as well as Sunday's mass start free technique event saw Murray Carter take the Senior Men's Division while Kelly Henry won the Senior Women's Division.
Mayor's Challenge Freestyle Coverage
January 22, 2012
Sunday brought warmer but damp and cloudy conditions for the Mayor's Challenge freestyle races at Theodore Wirth. The mens 15K race featured a tight battle between Matt Liebsch and Tad Elliot, starting 15 seconds apart, with Liebsch holding on to a narrow victory. Caitlin Gregg topped the womens 10K field.
Related:
Photoset: 10K - 178 photos, 15K - 256 photos, 5K - 146 photos
Photoset: Top Picks (high res)
Photoset from David Owen: Freestyle
Photoset from Todd Bauer: Womens 10K, Mens 15K
Results: 5K, 10K, 15K freestyle
CCSA: Northern Michigan on top again as Markvardsen, Soderman lead CCSA
Matt Liebsch Wins Mayor's Challenge Cross Country Ski Races
Birkie Tour Recap
January 21, 2012
Over 600 skiers participated in rather crisp temperatures in the annual Birkie Tour event Saturday.
Winter Youth Olympics Wrap
January 21, 2012
Eve Stein provides a recap on the recent Winter Youth Olympics, held in Austria, in which a number of Midwest athletes competed, including Nick Proell of St. Cloud and Anna Kubek of Duluth. The highlight of the games was a stunning bronze medal in the mixed relay on Saturday!
Related:
Youth Olympic Games Mixed Relay Team Races to Bronze
Snekkevik Results
January 21, 2012
A good turnout Saturday morning for the rescheduled Snekkevik races as skiers traveled from around the Midwest to enter the 12K and 24K distance events. The 24K freestyle crowns went to Tom Wood and JoEllen Torresani, 12K skate victories for Jim Mullen and Rae Bassette, 12K classical winners were Michael Arce and Barbara Bradley.
Related:
Lapham Loppet Results Posted
IPC Nordic Skiing World Cup Events Start Next Week
January 20, 2012
Some of the world's best cross country skiers with physical disabilities will be coming to the upper Midwest Jan. 26-Feb. 3 on the second of three stops as part of the 2012 International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Nordic Skiing World Cup series. The first half of the competition will be held Jan. 26-30 at Telemark Lodge with the second half Feb. 1-2 at Theodore Wirth Park.
Related:
IPC Team USA Athletes Announced
Biathlon: Burke Races to 12th Place in World Cup 10K Sprint
January 20, 2012
Tim Burke led Team USA in Friday's 10K Sprint at the IBU World Cup in Antholz-Anterselva, Italy posting a time of 25:41 for 12th overall. Burke was just 1:04 back from Fredrick Lindstrom's winning time.
City of Lakes Loppet Update
January 19, 2012
The City of Lakes Loppet is moving forward for this year's event, with a number of options on the table to provide a ski race in spite of the low snowfall.
Wolf Tracks Rendezvous at Minocqua
January 19, 2012
Minocqua Winter Park will be host to a brand new 42K ski marathon, February 4th, 2012. The event will feature both classical and skate divisions with wave starts and rolls over some of the best trails in the Minocqua system.
US Ski Team: USA Battles to Second in Milan
January 15, 2012
Teammates Kikkan Randall and Jessie Diggins combined in a hard fought battle to take second in the team sprint in the FIS Cross Country World Cup in Milan. The two survived a missed handoff at the midway mark which sent Diggins sprawling and Randall having to ski back for the tag. The two battled back to the pack and held off Canada for second at the line, as Sweden took the win. Russia took the victory in the men's sprint.
Seeley Hills Classic Results
January 14, 2012
The unofficial classical championship of the Midwest, the Seeley Hills Classic was saved by a mid-week snow storm and drew a solid field for the races on Saturday morning. The Gregg couple, Brian and Caitlin, swept the 42K classical titles (Caitlin's time would have placed her 8th overall!). Andrew Tilman and Russian Natasha Naryshkiria won the 22K races.
US Ski Team: Randall Second in Milan Sprints
January 14, 2012
FIS World Cup sprint leader Kikkan Randall battled through the streets of Milan to finish second in a World Cup freestyle sprint. Sweden's Ida Ingemarsdotter took her first win as Randall extended her lead. Jesse Diggins finished 18th. Norway's Eirik Brandsdal took his first victory in the men's race. Four Americans qualified for finals. A team sprint is set for Sunday in Milan.
Biathlon: Outstanding Finish for Team USA in 10K Sprint in Nove Mesto
January 14, 2012
In his first World Cup race of the 2011-12 season, Russell Currier raced to a career-best 6th place in Saturday's 10K Sprint at the IBU World Cup in Nove Mesto. Tim Burke posted an 11th place finish, followed by Lowell Bailey in 21st, and Jay Hakkinen in 31st. All four men will compete in tomorrow's Pursuit.
SISU Ski Fest Results
January 14, 2012
Racing with plenty of new fallen snow, the SISU Ski Fest rolled out from ABR and finished in downtown Ironwood Saturday. Matt Liebsch won the 42K freestyle, with Jenna Krueger taking the womens title. Santiago Ocariz and Kerrie Fabius were the top 42K striders. Results linked in.
Recap of Birkie Trailhead Public Hearing
January 13, 2012
Zach Larson provides a recap of Wednesday night's public hearing on a possible new Birkie trailhead. Note: Larson was one of the speakers against the proposal.
Marine/O'Brien Race Coming Up January 29th
January 13, 2012
The Marine/O'Brien Ski Race will celebrate their 41st year with the racing events on January 29th at William O'Brien State Park. A limited number of hats available to early registration skiers.
Loppet Events Volunteer Call Up
January 8, 2012
The City of Lakes Nordic Ski Foundation is seeking additional volunteers to help support the upcoming Mayor's Challenge, as well as the Paralymics World Cup and City of Lakes Loppet races.
Nationals: Day 7 Classical Sprints
January 8, 2012
US Cross-Country Ski Championships wrapped up in Rumford, ME, on Sunday with the classical sprint races. For the first time all week, Jessie Diggins did not win the race outright, but was the first American (finishing second overall), completing her sweep of the National titles. Tyler Kornfield was crowned the mens champ after Torin Koos was DQ'd. Karl Nygren won the mens B final.
Related:
Photoset from CXC: Classical Sprints
Photoset from USSA: Classical Sprints
Results: Classical Sprints
Toko: US Nationals Classical Sprints Report
Racing Outlook
January 8, 2012
The terrible winter continues for much of the region. Boulder Lake Ski race has announced their cancellation. Seeley Hills is still on! Snekkevik is rescheduled. Fridtjof Nansen cancelled too.
King Boreas Coverage
January 8, 2012
Green Acres saved another ski race from cancellation on Sunday, as the King Boreas race was originally scheduled for Phalen. The expanded man-made snow loop included a few rolling loop around an outer corn field, providing some relief from the run up Per's Plunge. Tom Jorgenson pulled away from Chris Sachs on the final lap to take the mens victory. Bonnie Weiskopf Albrecht recovered from a first lap mishap to take the womens title. After the citizen's race, there was an exciting skijor race that included a descent of Per's Plunge. Results and photos up now.
Telemarker Challenge Coverage
January 7, 2012
Adam Swank and Megan Ping won the 2nd annual Telemarker Challenge race on the Telemark trails Saturday. Results and photos linked in.
Related:
Finding Rainbow Coverage
Eki Loppet Results
Pre-Loppet Coverage
January 7, 2012
A fast and firm track greeted racers for the 2012 Pre-Loppet at Theodore Wirth Park. Andrew Tilman nipped Nathan Porath at the line after completing 5 laps of the man-made snow loop. In the women's category, Hilary Patzer established a commanding lead to take first place honors over Margie Nelson and Beth Ihry. Results posted along with a video recap.
Related:
Peace Coffee Pre-Loppet Recap
Nationals: Day 5 Classical Races
January 6, 2012
Friday at US Nationals featured the classical format races. Once again, Jessie Diggins climbed to the top step of the podium, finishing just 11 seconds ahead of Ida Sargent, with teammate Jennie Bender, a few seconds behind Sargent in third. Caitlin Gregg pulled off a sixth place finish. In the mens race, Noah Hoffman took the victory with Brian Gregg in 7th as the top Midwest skier. Other notable finishers: Gordon Vermeer 16th, Santiago Ocariz 20th, Karl Nygren 22nd, Matt Liebsch 23rd; Carolyn Ocariz 19th, Maria Stuber 22nd. In the mens junior 10K, Ben Saxton took 3rd, Adam Martin 6th. Anne Hart won the womens junior race, Nicole Bathe 5th.
Related:
Photoset from CXC: Set 1, Set 2
Photoset from USSA: Classical
Results: Classical
Toko: US Nationals Classical Report
CCSA: Markvardsen, Kornfield lead CCSA at U.S. Nationals Classic Event
Pepsi Challenge Update
January 6, 2012
While still two weeks out, the Pepsi Challenge organizers are considering a race postponement until March if additional snowfall is not received within the next 10 days.
Related:
Racing Outlook
Wednesday Night Racing Results
January 5, 2012
All four Wednesday night races series were held this week, as series opened in Duluth, Lapham Peak, and Theodore Wirth, to join the already running Elm Creek series. Results from all four are now up.
Related:
New High School Results Posted
Nationals: Day 4 Freestyle Races
January 5, 2012
Day 4 of the US Cross-Country Championships featured the freestyle races. Tad Elliot edged out Minnesota's Matt Liebsch for the victory by a mere 3 seconds. Jessie Diggins continued to reign on the US racing scene, crushing the womens field by over a minute in her victory. Caitlin Gregg also followed up on previous strong performances, taking third. Other top results: Bryan Cook 5th, Brian Gregg 10th, Santiago Ocariz 17th, Karl Nygren 19th; Jennie Bender 6th, Maria Stuber 19th.
Related:
Photoset from CXC: Nationals Freestyle
Photoset from USSA: Freestyle
Results: Freestyle
Toko: US Nationals Freestyle Report
CCSA: Hanneman, Markvardsen earn CCSA's top spots in U.S. Nationals freestyle events
American Birkebeiner Champion takes 2nd at Nationals
Nationals: Day 2 Sprints
January 3, 2012
After a rain delay Monday, US National Cross-Country Ski Championships got underway in Rumford, Maine with the freestyle sprints. The CXC team came out looking great in the womens sprints as Jessie Diggins successfully defended her title, Caitlin Gregg finished second and Jennie Bender was third. Torin Koos also repeated as the mens sprint champion. CXC's Karl Nygren made the A final, finishing 6th.
Related:
Photoset from USSA: Sprints
Results: Sprints
Toko: US Nationals Sprint Report
Rossignol: Torin Koos Repeats National Sprint Champion
China Vasaloppet Report
January 2, 2012
Dr. David Clemens provides a brief recap on his experience with several Midwest skiers at the 2012 Vasaloppet China, held January 2nd.
Nationals: Day 1 Postponed by Rain
January 2, 2012
The opening day of US Nationals in Rumford, Maine, was postponed due to overnight rains. Plans are on hold as organizers await cooler weather and drier conditions. Update: Sprints have been moved to Tuesday morning, Wednesday freestyle races pushed back to Thursday.
Twin Cities Paralympics Volunteer Informational Meeting
January 1, 2012
The City of Lakes Nordic Ski Foundation will be hosting a volunteer informational meeting this Wednesday, January 4th, at the Wirth chalet. Some of the topics to be discussed include rules and requirements, as well as the history behind the event.
Minnesota Youth Ski League Team Sprint Training Series
January 1, 2012
The MYSL Team Sprint series will start up this Wednesday evening on the snowmaking loop at Wirth. The series features two-person relays with a different format each week and is targeted for both adults and kids with a focus on MYSL and Skiwerx racers.
Twin Cities Championships Freestyle Coverage
January 1, 2012
After warm temperatures and wet snow on Saturday, strong winds ushered in colder temperatures which resulted in a icy speedway for the Twin Cities Championships at Wirth Sunday. The pursuit format delivered on excitement as both Bjorn Batdorf and Johanna Winters overcame their start deficits to take the overall titles. Results, photos and video up now.
Twin Cities Championships Classical Coverage
December 31, 2011
Warm weather and the lack of any new snow made for some tricky kick waxing conditions at Green Acres for the opening race of the Twin Cities Championships. Jeremy Hecker broke away by the second lap and hammered out a good lead for Sunday's pursuit race. Sharmila Ahmed held off Bonnie Bonnie Weiskopf-Albrecht to complete the St. Scholastica sweep. Results, photos and video recap up now. Racing action continues Sunday at Wirth with an exciting pursuit format skate race.
Biathlon: World Youth/Junior Biathlon Championships Team Trials Day 1
December 29, 2011
Minnesota skiers Kelly Kjorlien and Nick Proell both finished on the podium in the first day of the World Youth/Junior Biathlon Championships in Anchorage, AK.
Related:
Results: World Youth/Junior Biathlon Championships
World Youth/Junior Biathlon Championships Team Trials Day 2
Biathlon: Three Minnesotans Nominated for Youth / Junior World Championship Team
New Birkie Trailhead, Race Start Remains Same
December 28, 2011
The Board of Directors of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) has voted to develop a new trailhead just south of Cable, WI, off highway 63 and Leonard School Road. The Board also decided to continue use of the Cable Airport for the start of the Birkie ski races as long as possible.
NNF Pledges Additional $25K in Cross-Country Pillar Projects
December 26, 2011
The National Nordic Foundation will invest an additional $25,000 in two Cross-Country Pillar Projects in its second round of 2011/2012 funding.
Como Championships Coverage
December 26, 2011
Continuing a season of man-made snow races, the Como Championships were held at Green Acres on Monday morning. A solid field of competitors turned out, providing some exciting action as the skiers did four laps of the Green Acres layout, including trips down and back up Per's Plunge. Matt Liebsch used the event for some final US Nationals tuning as he crushed the mens field. Similarly, Annie Hart pulled away for an good margin in taking the womens title. There were also 5K high school and 1K kids races. Results linked in, photos up now.
Birkie Warrior Winners Announced
December 23, 2011
The American Birkebeiner organizers have announced the winners chose the Birkie Warriors contest for the 2012 event. Long-time friends, Barry Knapp and Darald Bothun, of Rochester, MN, will assume the roles of Torstein and Skervald, the Birkebeiner warriors who rescued Prince Haakon during the Norwegian Civil War in 1206. Kristin Bothun, Darald's daugher, of Mankato, MN, will ski as Inga from Varteig, mother of Prince Haakon.
VIP Nordic Combined Trip
December 23, 2011
Join the US Nordic Combined team on their World Cup Tour and help support them at the same time. Special VIP tour package for the World Cup final in early March.
Nordic Spirit Race and Tour
December 21, 2011
Nordic Spirit Race and Tour will be held January 29th at Spirit Mountain Nordic in Duluth. Register by December 31st to avoid the next price hike!
Biathlon: Mt Itasca IBU Cup Trials Day 2
December 18, 2011
Day 2 of the IBU Cup Trials opened with a perfect shooting and skiing conditions. Despite a balmy 35 degrees, the course set up well, and the ski tracks at Mt Itasca were firm and fast. Russell Currier (MWSC) of Caribou, ME came out swinging, after a poor performance in the Day 1 Sprint competition, to collect the victory Sunday. Beth Ann Chamberlain (MWSC) returned to her hometown training ground at Mt Itasca and put down the fastest ski time of the day to win the womens event.
Related:
Photoset from Joe Muller : 12 photos
Biathlon: Mt Itasca IBU Cup Trials Day 1
Biathlon: Mt Itasca IBU Cup Trials Day 3 Recap
US Ski Team: Career Best Classic Finishes in New Snow
December 17, 2011
It was a day of career bests for U.S. racers in Rogla, Slovenia, with classic technique distance racing in heavy new snow. The U.S. Ski Team's technicians delivered the skis with Kikkan Randall setting the pace finishing 11th, Holly Brooks 19th and Liz Stephen 22nd in the 10k. Andy Newell kicked off the day with a 24th in the men's 15k – all career best classic distance finishes. Norway's Petter Northug and Poland's Justyna Kowalczyk took the wins.
Related:
US Ski Team: Start Crash Takes Out Randall in Finals
Biathlon: 9th Place Finish for Hakkinen in Hochfilzen Pursuit
December 17, 2011
Jay Hakkinen led Team USA with a 9th place finish in Saturday's 12.5km pursuit at the Hochfilzen IBU World Cup. Clean shooting and fast skiing vaulted Hakkinen from a start in 45th position to his top-10 finish. Lowell Bailey was 25th, Leif Norgdren 33rd.
Birkie Auction
December 13, 2011
Still hoping to get into the 2012 Birkie or Kortie? As a benefit for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 20 entries are being auctioned off. Auction ends today at 4:30 pm!
Twin Cities Championships Early Prizes
December 13, 2011
The Twin Cities Championships are coming up at the end of the month, December 31st and January 1st. Register before Christmas eve and you'll be automatically entered into a drawing for a free entry. The TC Champs will feature the newly homologated Battle Creek venue for the mass start classical race.
US Ski Team: Big Win for Randall
December 11, 2011
The U.S. Ski Team's Kikkan Randall turned on the afterburners in the backstretch and left the field stranded as she won her second straight FIS Cross Country World Cup sprint in the Swiss resort of Davos. Randall, who qualified first, won every heat by large margins as she won by 1.7 seconds over Russian Natalia Matveeva to move into third in the FIS World Cup overall standings. Andy Newell qualified 3rd but was unable to advance out of the quarterfinals.
Greenbush Nordic Challenge Cancelled
December 10, 2011
While scheduled for January 15th, organizers have decided to cancel the citizen portion of the Greenbush Nordic Challenge race citing a lack of volunteers and a desire to work on growing the sport.
Hoigaards Relays Coverage
December 10, 2011
Jason Dalebroux reports: Over 130 skiers (100+ high school or junior skiers!) braved the cold darkness early Saturday morning to compete in the 2011 Hoigaard's Breadsmith Relays. Under the lights, on the manmade snow at Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington, teams competed in a 4 X 3km relay race, on a 1.5km course. In the Master's mens race, Travis Hinck and Bjorn Batdorf took the win for the second year in a row, and by a comfortable margin. The real excitement came with the mass start High School/Junior's race, with Eden Prairie girls teams going 1-2-3, and Eden Prairie boys team edging out Mound Westonka for the win! Results up along with video recaps.
Test the Lungs Race Coverage
December 10, 2011
Over 80 skiers, including college teams from Gustavus and St. Olaf, competed Saturday morning in the Test the Lungs race at Green Acres. The course was a 1.7K ribbon of man-made snow, including a long climb up the road next to the tubing hill, which was done six times for the 10K race. Jens Brabbit outclimbed Andrew Brown to take the mens title. Kathleen DeWahl pulled away on the final lap to win the womens race. Full results and photos online now.
US Ski Team: Career Best for Brooks in Davos
December 10, 2011
APU Nordic skier Holly Brooks (Anchorage) skied to a career best 13th Saturday in the 15k freestyle in Davos with three Americans in the points. Norway's Marit Bjoergen won by an amazing 42 seconds.
Tribute to the Skinnyski Race Team
December 8, 2011
After 10 years of great service, the Skinnyski Race Team has disbanded. We pay tribute to the great skiers who honored us by wearing the race suits and sharing their stories.
SuperTour: Bozeman Classic
December 4, 2011
The Bozeman SuperTour races wrapped up Sunday with the classical format races. Jessie Diggins continued her domination of the series with yet another victory. CXC teammates Caitlin Gregg and Jennie Bender had great races as well, finishing 4th and 6th respectively. The CXC men placed three in the top 8: Brian Gregg 5th, Santi Ocariz 6th, Karl Nygren 8th. Other results: Carolyn Ocariz 13th.
Related:
Results: 10K, 15K classical
US Ski Team: Podium for Randall, Bjornsen
December 4, 2011
The U.S. Ski Team's Kikkan Randall and Sadie Bjornsen combined for an historic FIS World Cup podium Sunday in a sprint relay in Duesseldorf. The U.S. team turned in a strong performance, finishing just 1.6 seconds to place second behind Norway in the freestyle sprint. The US mens duo was unable to advanced from the semis.
Related:
Photoset from USSA Nordic: Dusseldorf Team Sprints
Biathlon: Strong Pursuit Finish Propels Team USA Men to 7th Place World Ranking
SuperTour: Bozeman Freestyle
December 3, 2011
The SuperTour picked up again this weekend with racing action in Bozeman, MT at the Bohart Ranch. And Jessie Diggins picked right up where she left off, taking the womens 5K skate race just edging out Caitlin Gregg for the victory. Caitlin's spouse, Brian, had an impressive race taking third in the mens 10K. Other top results: Jennie Bender 6th; Carolyn Ocariz 16th; Santi Ocariz 11th, Karl Nygren 12th.
Related:
Results: 5K, 10K Freestyle, Prologue
US Ski Team: Brilliant Win for Randall in Duesseldorf
December 3, 2011
The U.S. Ski Team's Kikkan Randall skied a brilliant final in the freestyle sprint, making a critical pass in the homestretch to win her fourth career FIS World Cup sprint. Andy Newell was the top US male, qualifying 14th bur was unable to advance in the heats.
Related:
Jumping: Historic Win for Teen Sarah Hendrickson
Biathlon: Bailey Skis to 5th Place in Ostersund 10K
December 2, 2011
Lowell Bailey combined fast skiing and perfect shooting to place a career-best 5th in today's 10km Sprint, just 22.4 seconds back from winner Carl Johan Bergman. Bailey now sits 4th overall in World Cup standings! Tim Burke (Paul Smiths, NY) finished finished in 12th place.
Badger State Games Announces Ski Events
December 1, 2011
The Badget State Winter Games, saved from near termination, has finally posted the ski race details for year's events. The races will be Saturday, Feb 4th, with a new 7K race replacing the old 10K, along the 21K and 43K events.
Biathlon: Top 10 Finish for Bailey at World Cup Opener
November 30, 2011
Two-time Olympian Lowell Bailey (Lake Placid, NY) opened the IBU Biathlon World Cup with a 9th place finish at Ostersund, Sweden. Minnesotan Leif Nordgren finished 58th.
Interview: Jennie Bender
November 29, 2011
CXC Elite team member and Vermont transplant now living in the Twin Cities, Jennie Bender is wrapping up a great West Yellowstone experience as the 2010 racing season gets underway. Bender shares some of her experiences from the early races, as well as those cute Midwestern mannerisms.
Noquemanon Announces Skijor and Snow Bike Events
November 29, 2011
The Noquemanon announces new skijor and snow bike races held the day after the big ski races. The skijor will be a 12K event while the snow bike will be a full 25K race. Register for the ski races before their first price hike on December 1st!
US Ski Team: Randall, Brooks Strong in 5K
November 26, 2011
Kikkan Randall continued her strong season start, finishing 12th in a 5k freestyle race in the second leg of the weekend-long Ruka Triple in Kuusamo on Saturday. Holly Brooks finished an impressive 17th, a career best World Cup and first European World Cup points. In the men's 10k, Kris Freeman was 24th.
US Ski Team: Randall Scores Best Classic Sprint
November 25, 2011
Kikkan Randall scored a career best classic sprint finish, coming in fourth in the first stage of the Ruka Triple Friday in Kuusamo, high up on the Arctic Circle of Finland. Qualifying 15th, Randall powered through to the finals after beating Poland's Justyna Kowalczak to the line in the semi-finals. Norway's Marit Bjoergen took the win with Randall 4.5 seconds out in the sprint final. Andy Newell qualified 19th but lost out in the first round of heats.
SuperTour: Yellowstone Classical
November 26, 2011
The opening SuperTour series events winded down Saturday with the classical format races. Stillwater's Jessie Diggins continues to be on fire, dominating the womens 5K and posting the only sub-15 minute time of the day! Jennie Bender capped an excellent trip out west with a third place placing today. Other top Midwest results: Caitlin Gregg 6th, Carolyn Ocariz 14th; Brian Gregg 7th, Karl Nygren 11th, Santi Ocariz 16th.
Related:
Photoset: CXC
Results: Preliminary Women, Preliminary Men
Toko: Yellowstone SuperTour Classic Notes
SuperTour: Yellowstone Freestyle
November 25, 2011
After a break for Thanksgiving, the SuperTour series in West Yellowstone resumed on Friday with the freestyle races. CXC women continued their hot streak with Jessie Diggins finishing second and Caitlin Gregg third. Matt Liebsch scored an impressive sixth. Other top results: Carolyn Ocariz 14th, Jennie Bender 19th, Brian Gregg 19th.
Related:
Photoset from CXC: Yellowstone Freestyle
Results: 10K, 15K freestyle
Toko: Yellowstone SuperTour Freestyle Update
SuperTour: Yellowstone Sprints
November 23, 2011
The 2011-2012 SuperTour series kicked off Wednesday in West Yellowstone with nearly perfect conditions for the classical and freestyle sprints. The CXC women dominated the day: Classical sprints - Jessie Diggins 1st, Jennie Bender 2nd, Caitlin Gregg 4th; Freestyle sprints - Caitlin Gregg 1st, Jessie Diggins 2nd. Other top results: Karl Nygren 10th classical, Santi Ocariz 14th classical, Brian Gregg 6th freestyle, Santi Ocariz 9th freestyle; Audrey Weber 12th classical, Jennie Bender 9th freestyle.
Related:
Photoset from CXC: Yellowstone Sprints
Photoset from Renee Callaway : Yellowstone Sprints
Results: Yellowstone Sprints
Toko Yellowstone SuperTour Sprints Recap
Start: Sinnott Wins and Leads USSA Supertour on Start SD3 Poles
Twin Cities Champs Ready for 2011-2012 Edition
November 21, 2011
The Sisu Foundation today announced that they have partnered with Gear West to once again present the Twin Cities Championships Nordic ski race. The Twin Cities Championships consists of a 10k classic race at Battle Creek Park in St. Paul on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011, and concludes with a 15k pursuit race on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis. Register by Dec 1st and you're automatically entered in a special drawing!
US Ski Team: Randall Leads USA in XC Relay
November 20, 2011
Kikkan Randall skied to second in her relay leg, recording one of the fastest times of the day, as the USA finished ninth in the 4x5k mixed technique relay in Sjusjoen, Norway. The U.S. men were 11th, less than a minute out. Norway dominated both the men's and women's relays.
Minnesota State CX Championships Coverage
November 19, 2011
Winter arrived on Saturday, just in time for the Minnesota State Cyclocross Championships at Bassett Creek. The early races had just cold temps and brisk winds, but by 11 the rain/sleet started up and eventually switched to slippery snow by afternoon. We only had time to cover the first two races, unfortunately (send us what you got!).
Related:
Photoset: Mens Cat 4 - 119 photos, Juniors/Womens Cat 4 - 114 photos
Results: Preliminary
US Ski Team: Randall, Stephen Open With Career Bests
November 19, 2011
The U.S. Ski Team's Kikkan Randall scored a career best non-sprint finish of 8th place as the FIS Cross Country World Cup opened in Sjusjoen, Norway. Liz Stephen matched her career best in 18th. Norway's Marit Bjoergen won the women's 10k while Swede Johan Olsson won the men's 15k. Kris Freeman 55th to lead U.S. men.
City of Lakes Loppet Returns to Hennepin Ave Finish
November 16, 2011
The City of Lakes Loppet official announced their new Uptown finish on Hennepin Ave in a press conference on Wednesday morning. The new finish will bring skiers up onto Lake Street and then finish on Hennepin Ave right in front of Calhoun Square. The Loppet last finished on Hennepin Ave in 2004.
Finn Sisu Issues Jessie Diggins 30-Day Gift Match Challenge
November 13, 2011
At Jessie Diggins' fundraiser dinner last Friday, Ahvo Taipale announced that Finn Sisu will contribute a matching $2000 to help fund her World Cup season. Help meet this matching donation, send in your contribution by Dec 1st.
Ski Strong Scholarship
November 13, 2011
The Landgraf family has started a special scholarship in memory of Dave Landgraf, the Birkie founder that was tragically killed in a cycling accident last summer. The scholarship awards a free Birkie/Kortie entry to one Wisconsin girl and boy, under the age of 21, drawn from essays received by Dec 1st.
Mill City CX Coverage
November 13, 2011
Barkers Alps Park in Bayport, MN, hosted its second day of cyclocross racing on Sunday. Organizer made a number of changes to the course over the previous day to mix things up. Sunday's course included a long sand pit, a couple of steep, short climbs, and the usual pair of barriers, as riders rode over primarily turf trails. Coverage from the junior and mens cat 3 races.
Related:
Photoset: Juniors - 66 photos, Mens Cat 3 - 38 photos
Video: Mens Cat 3 Recap
Limestone Loppet Coverage
November 12, 2011
Bob Richards reports: A thawing limestone trail slowed Chicago-area rollers on Saturday at the annual Northern Illinois Nordic Limestone Loppet time trial at McKee Marsh in Warrenville, IL. The race was run on a sunny day with temperatures in the 50s after a heavy frost overnight. Familiar names took the titles as Jan Myrda took the overall title in the 8K event, while Kielo Sauvala was the female. Abbott Wright was first across the line in the 4K Cat-Ski race, but runner-up Randal Bladel had been leading before making a wrong turn.
Related:
Results: Limestone Loppet
Limestone Loppet: Full Race Recap
Arctic Command Coverage
November 12, 2011
John Kendrick reports: Ninety-three runners competed in the 4th annual Arctic Commando 5K Trail Run, a fundraiser for St. Paul Central Nordic skiing. Olympian Caitlin Compton Gregg set the pace for the women, finishing in 22:44, followed by Sara Morse and Frances Homans. Brian Gregg flattened the hills, finishing in 18:51, followed by Rody Lageson and Robert Edman. The 2.5K youth run was one by Simon Gaytan, followed by Liam Mccully and Leo Sovell-Fernandez. Both races followed the new ski courses designed for the Super Tour coming to St. Paul in January.
Related:
Photoset from Ed Swain: 134 photos
Results: 5K, 2 mile
Birkie Filling Fast
November 11, 2011
Over 7600 skiers are already registered for the American Birkebeiner and Kortelopet races, almost guarantying the race will fill early again this year.
International Paralympics Nordic World Cup Coming to Wirth
November 6, 2011
With the big IPC Nordic World Cup races coming to Theodore Wirth park in Minneapolis in early February, the City of Lakes Nordic Ski Foundation is seeking volunteers to help assist in a wide range of opportunities.
Olympic Medalist Skis Birkie for MS Cure
November 3, 2011
Recognized as one of Norway’s Top Ten Nordic skiers of all time, Vegard Ulvang will participate in this year’s American Birkebeiner as a “Research Ambassador” for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Wisconsin Chapter. And you could win a chance to ski with the six-time Olympic medalist!
Birkie Waves Closing
November 1, 2011
Birkie registrations have been pouring in and organizers have been starting to close waves.
Midwest Racing Season Preview
October 31, 2011
The racing season kicks off in just over a month (maybe less!?), and we've got the Racing Calendar tuned up with the latest information. Read our season preview to find all the movers and shakers and start making those hard decisions.
Stump Farm Trail Race and Duathlon Results
October 31, 2011
Philip Nelson reports: There were a few less costumes but lots more racers at the 2011 Stump Farm Trail Race and Duathlon than previous years. The 10 mile run was won by former UWGB and ANST skier Robyn Lauritsen (1:14:48), and Steven Gromatka (1:07:13). The 5k was taken by Hanne Guthrie (20:37) and Matt Nichols (18:07). Maria Statz (2:18:08) and Mike Budd (1:48:57) took the Duathlon wins and Team GB Bike Polo of Ryan and Aaron Steen took the team division win (1:55:55).
Related:
Results: Stump Farm Duathlon
Halloween Hustle Coverage
October 29, 2011
Eve Stein provides photos and results from the Halloween Hustle race in Duluth on Saturday morning.
Related:
Photoset from Eve Stein: Halloween Hustle
Results: Halloween Hustle
Looking for Birkie Warriors
October 26, 2011
The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is searching for three cross-country skiers to depict the two Birkebeiner warriors and Inga, the mother of baby Prince Haakon, at this year's race. The deadline for submitting entries is November 15, 2011.
Cable Volunteers Sought for IPC Nordic World Cup
October 25, 2011
The Cable Area Cable of Commerce is seeking some experienced volunteers to oversee the International Paralympic Nordic Skiing World Cup event being held at Telemark January 23-30th. There are varying levels of volunteerism and different benefits for those levels.
Green Acres CX Coverage
October 23, 2011
Green Acres Winter Recreation Area hosted their annual fall cyclocross race, providing yet another excellent venue. Jenna Rinehart put the hammer down early to break away from the womens cat 1/2/3 field for a solid victory. Jordan Cullen put in a similar race in the mens cat 1/2 event, holding off a late charge by Craig Faulkner.
Related:
Photoset: Womens Cat 1/2/3, Masters 45+ - 121 photos, Mens Cat 1/2, Masters 35+ - 168 photos
Photoset from Tim Gut: Green Acres CX
Video: Womens 1/2/3, Masters 45+ Recap, Mens 1/2, Masters 35+ Recap
Results: Green Acres CX
Pumpkin Run Results
October 22, 2011
Tom Urbanski reports: A record field of 316 runners and walkers participated in the sixth annual Pumpkin Run and Walk Five-Kilometer Race held at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College in Cloquet on Saturday. Eric Hartmark of Duluth led all runners to the finish in a time of 16:17 and became the first three-time winner of the event, having previously won in 2009 and 2010. Ken Ripp of Cloquet was second overall and Andy Chapin of Duluth was third. In the women's division, Samantha Smith of Wright placed first with a time of 20:49. Kelly Grinsteinner of Sturgeon Lake was second and Marlo McGaver of Duluth finished in third place.
Related:
Results: Pumpkin Run
Badger State Games Revived
October 20, 2011
The Wisconsin Sports Development Corporation (WSDC) has reached an agreement with the Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) that will allow its signature event, the Badger State Games, to continue in 2012 and beyond.
Go!Training Time Trial Coverage
October 20, 2011
Piotr Bednarski and the Go!Training group held their first fall informal rollerskiing time trial on the rolling streets just east of French Regional Park. As expected, Matt Liebsch put the hurt on early, taking a 35 second lead after the first of four 2.5K laps and stretching it 2:30 by the third lap to easily post the top time. Jennie Bender showed great form for the women, topping the field and finishing top three overall. Michael Cork and Kaley Shagen led the junior field.
Related:
Photoset: Juniors - 79 photos, Seniors/Masters - 59 photos
Results: Go!Training Rollerski Time Trial
Midwest MTB Racing Recap
October 18, 2011
Jay Richards wraps up another excellent season of Midwest MTB racing coverage with an exclusive interview with the legendary Steve Tilford.
Drive for 25
October 17, 2011
The National Nordic Foundation (formerly NCCSEF) has kicked off a campaign to get 4,000 Nordic skiing supporters to donate $25 to support top developing athletes from the J1 to World Cup level. They are also looking for 400 ambassadors.
Hudson Cross at the Y Coverage
October 16, 2011
Hudson, Wisconsin, hosted another set of cyclocross races, this time at the YMCA Camp on the St. Croix. The venue provided a near perfect cyclocross layout, complete with a stairs run, a couple of sand pits, and plenty of dirt roads and trails. Coverage from the Juniors/Cat 4 Womens and Mens Cat 3 races.
Related:
Photoset: Juniors/Cat 4 Women - 94 photos, Kids - 10 photos, Mens Cat 3 - 102 photos
Photoset from Tim Gut: Hudson CX at the Y
Video: Mens Cat 3 Highlights
Video from Brady Prenzlow: Cat 3 Helmetcam
Midwest Junior National Coaching Opportunity
October 14, 2011
The Midwest Junior National team is accepting applications for coaches for the 2011-2012 Junior Nationals. This Junior Nationals is going to be held at Soldier Hollow in Utah with the team traveling or training from March 1-11th.
US Ski Team: Olympians Headline 2012 Cross Country Team
October 14, 2011
Some of the most talented athletes in the world, including World Cup winner Kikkan Randall and Olympians Andy Newell and Kris Freeman, headline the roster of the 2012 U.S. Cross Country Ski Team. The team was announced during a training and testing camp for cross country athletes at the USSA's Center of Excellence in Park City. Jessie Diggins, Afton, MN native, is listed on the B team, just one step down.
Midwest MTB Racing Recap
October 11, 2011
The MTB season may be wrapping up in the Midwest, but Jay Richard's weekly report features a detailed report on Mike Schroden competition in the National 24 Hours MTB Championship held in California the weekend before.
2012 Youth Olympic Team Nominated
October 9, 2011
The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) nominated 15 young athletes for the 2012 Winter Youth Olympic Games following the final qualifier for nordic combined and ski jumping at the Flaming Leaves Festival in the Olympic village of Lake Placid. The inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games is slated for Jan. 13-22 in Innsbruck, Austria. Ski jumper Emilee Anderson, Eau Claire, WI, is the lone midwest representative.
Wirth Classic CX Coverage
October 9, 2011
Hot-tober continued Sunday as temperatures climbed into the low 80s for the afternoon cyclocross races at Theodore Wirth Sunday. Race organizers set up a completely new course layout this year, removing the infamous stair climb and turning much of the loop into more of a mountain bike theme. The mens Cat 1/2 race, Adam Bergman and Jesse Rients broke clear half way into the race with Bergman making the winning break on the final lap. Jeanne Fleck rode away with the womens victory in the Cat 1/2/3 race. Photos up now, video recaps coming Monday.
Related:
Photoset: Womens 1/2/3, Masters 45+ - 50 photos, Mens 1/2, Masters 35+ - 84 photos
Photoset: Top Picks (high res)
Photoset from Steve Crum: Wirth Classic CX
Photoset from Tim Gut : Wirth Classic CX
Video: Masters 45+, Womens Cat 1/2/3 Highlights, Mens Cat 1/2 Highlights
Results: Wirth Classic CX
Pumpkin Run Coverage
October 8, 2011
Jay Richards reports: Mother Nature finally found the off button for turbo on hair dryer, and combined with cooler temps, made for pleasant conditions for the 7th annual Lucky's Loype Pumpkin Run at Maplelag Resort. Longtime Maplelag event participant, Lars Ellefson, took to the front posting the fastest time in the 8km just while Jenny Aune took the female division. Ken Hammer continued his dominance in the 4km posting the best time as Jennifer Ristau was fastest among all females. Maplelag mascot, Carlos, ran pace with the leaders and was reported by race officials to have run at least three laps.
Related:
Photoset from Jay Richards: Pumpkin Run
Results: 4K, 8K Trail Run
Autumn Woods Classic Coverage
October 8, 2011
Feeling more like early September, warm temperatures and gusty winds greeted the Autumn Woods Classic runners at Elm Creek Saturday morning. Luke Nelson and Kari Koski won the 10K titles, Andrew Blau and Kelly Johnson collected the 5K victories.
Related:
Photoset: 5K - Mile 1 - 41 photos, 5K - Mile 2 - 139 photos
Photoset: Top Picks (high res)
Results: Autumn Woods Classic
National Nordic Foundation Calendars Go On Sale
October 6, 2011
The annual National Nordic Foundation (formerly NCCSEF) calendar is now available for sale.
World Cup Coming to Minneapolis, Cable
October 6, 2011
International Paralympic Nordic Skiing World Cup events will be coming to Theodore Wirth and Telemark ski trails this winter! The racing action will begin at Telemark on January 23rd and wrap up on the Wirth trails Feb 3rd (with possibly entries in the Loppet race on the 5th).
Related:
World Paralympics Coming to Wirth, Volunteers Needed
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