Highlights

Junior Nationals: Freestyle Race
March 12, 2010
The individual races concluded on Friday in Presque Isle, Maine, with the freestyle events. The womens OJ team had a great performance taking down places 2nd Corrine Malcolm, 3rd Eleanor Magnuson, and 4th Lynn Duijndam, and should be in strong position for the relay Saturday. Annie Hart finished 3rd, less than five seconds back from victory, in the womens J1. Other results: Matthew Nichols 11th (J2), Jen Rolfes 11th (J1), Elizabeth Simak 14th (J1), Andy Dodds 12th (J1), Sarah Daniels 12th (OJ), Libby Ellis 14th (OJ), Matt Dugan 12th (OJ).
Related:
Results: 5K, 10K freestyle

Olympic Slideshow
March 11, 2010
Join Garrott Kuzzy, 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympian, for a slideshow at the Ideal Market and Rivers Eatery in downtown Cable this Saturday, March 13 at 6:30pm.

US Ski Team: Newell on Classic Sprint Podium
March 11, 2010
Andy Newell sprinted to his first World Cup podium in two years, finishing third in a classic sprint Thursday in front of thousands on the streets of Drammen, Norway.

24 Hours of Lappe Ski Relay
March 10, 2010
The last weekend in March holds the big season ending 24 Hours of Lappe event. The race has become a tradition for many skiers and is highlighted by fun relay teams and great food. Form your team and make your plans for Thunder Bay now.

Racing Outlook
March 9, 2010
Racing season isn't over yet. Race updates on the Chili Bowl, Midwest Junior Championships, and the Pole Pedal Pant winter triathlon.

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
March 9, 2010
The first weekend in March held a dozen races on the calendar. The Skinnyski Race Team hit up two metro events, as well as the Sleeping Giant Loppet in Thunder Bay. Read race stories from Per and Elaine.

Junior Nationals: Sprints
March 9, 2010
Junior Nationals opened Monday in Presque Isle, Maine, with the classical sprint races. The Midwest division had a mixed day with just one podium placing, Corrine Malcolm 3rd (OJ), and two others skiers, Eric Slater (J2), and Summer Ellefson (J1) making it to the finals. The New England division dominated the podium. Corrine Malcolm comments: "I crashed hard in the A final but fought my way back through the field to finish third in the OJ womens race. It was a tough day, you saw anything from slush, to powder, to ice on the trail." Racing continues Wednesday with classical races.
Related:
Results: Classical Sprints

Elk River Biathlon Results
March 8, 2010
Over 100 skiers turned out Sunday for the biathlon race at Woodland trails in Elk River. State Champion Raleigh Goessling, already a top biathlete, held off Olympian Garrott Kuzzy and Matt Liebsch by mere seconds to take the experienced category division. In the novice long course races, Emily Goetsche and Nick Pauley won the junior division, Rich and Molly Hoeg topped the masters field.
Related:
Rich Hoeg's Blog Entry with Photos and Video

Wood N Ski Rendezvous
March 8, 2010
The Tenth Annual Wood N Ski Rendezvous will take place at Snowflake Nordic Center in Duluth, MN this Saturday, March 13th. The event celebrates the culture and traditions of early cross country skiing on wooden skis with a 5K race and prizes for best vintage apparel.

Lotvola Cup Coverage
March 7, 2010
Warm weather and slushy snow resulted in some very slow conditions for the annual Lotvola Cup race at Maplelag Sunday. Jake Richards completed the weekend 'Resort sweep' taking the victory Sunday to complement his win Saturday at Rainbow Resort. The race was a tight battle of roughly ten skiers in the lead pack right up the final kilometer. Johanna Winters was the top woman finishing fifth overall, less than 30 seconds back. Full results plus photos online now.

US Ski Team: Randall Leads U.S. in Finland
March 6, 2010
World Championship silver medalist Kikkan Randall got back into the World Cup season Saturday, leading the U.S. in 24th during the women's 15K and men's 30K pursuits in Finland.

Sleeping Giant Loppet Results
March 6, 2010
Beautiful conditions Saturday for the Sleeping Giant Loppet in Thunder Bay. Andre Watt pulled away from Nikolai Anikin and Jeffery Cameron to take the premiere 50K freestyle race. Karla Bailey topped two Skinnyski race team members, Paulette Niemi and Elaine Nelson, in a close pack finish for the womens division. Mason Bacso and Kerrie Fabius collected the 50K classical titles. 35K victories went to Don Sisson and Jiska Westbroek. In the 20K event, Ross Chuchman and Anna Crawford posted top times. Full results linked in.
Related:
Lakeland Loppet Results

Rainbow Rendezvous Results
March 6, 2010
Amy Xu reports: 29 skiers from Twin Cities, Detroit Lakes, Park Rapids, Fargo-Moore/ND-MN, Ames/IA, and Norway hit the race courses in Saturday morning. Course records were broken by our local rising star skier, Jake Richards, and Birkie veteran skier, Craig Stolen. The fast icy condition made the 10k, 16k, and 6k courses fun yet challenging.
Related:
Riverview Loppet Results
Spring Fling Coverage

Hoigaards Slush Rush Results
March 6, 2010
The Hoigaards Slush Rush race hit the trails of Elm Creek Saturday morning some for fast racing. Nathan Porath and Kathleen Dewahl won the 12K masters race, Nate Brown and Kathryn Keller-Miller the high school division (Brown also posted the 2nd fastest time in the masters race!).
Related:
Snowjourn Results

Midwest Junior Championships
March 3, 2010
Theodore Wirth will host a two day Midwest Junior Championships with ski races and fun events for kids 15 and under. Besides freestyle sprints and classical races there will also be skiball and SkiX-c time trials.

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
March 2, 2010
The big Birkie weekend is in the books and we've got ten race stories lined up. Everything from Inga's top 10 list to the LAME system to how to make your own skis.

Birkie By the Numbers
March 2, 2010
Ari Ofsevit digs into the numbers behind the 2010 edition of the Birkie, complete with numerous graphs!

Olympics: Kershaw Fifth in Mens 50K Classic
February 28, 2010
Canada's Devon Kershaw and George Grey did their country proud skiing with the lead pack for nearly the entire race and in the end, Kershaw sprinted with the medal contenders just missing the podium by less than a second and finishing fifth by a hair. Petter Northug, Norway, took the gold in a final stretch sprint. James Southam was the top American finishing 28th.
Related:
Olympics: Northug Wraps Up With 50K Gold

Olympics: KIkkan Randall Personal Best at 30K
February 27, 2010
Kikkan Randall had her best-ever distance finish in the women's 30K mass start classic on Saturday. Known primarily as a sprinter, Randall finished 24th, while Holly Brooks also had a strong showing for the U.S. in 36th. Poland's Justyna Kowalcyzk won gold.

American Birkebeiner Coverage
February 27, 2010
If there was ever a perfect Birkie, this year may have been it. Skiers were treated to sunshine, temperatures in the teens rising to the 20s and fast, firm trails. How fast? Italian Fabio Santus won the mens 50K freestyle race sprinting ahead of Tad Elliot and setting a new course record of 1:56:58. Chris Cook rounded out the podium leading out a big field sprint. Rebecca Dussault cruised to repeat as the womens Birkie champion, Taz Mannix and Brooke Gosling finished second and third. Classical titles went to Juergen Uhl and Audrey Weber. Results linked in and photosets posted. Photosets added from Julie Joy Wenner, David Owen, Dick Anderson and Rich Hoeg, along with video clips from Scott Brown.
Related:
Press Release: Birkie Champions Take To The Podium
Press Release: Kortie Winners

Birkie Elite Sprints
February 26, 2010
The big Birkie weekend warmed up Thursday with the elite sprints on Main Street Hayward on Thursday. Norwegian Morten Eide Pedersen took the mens sprint over Kevin Hochtl. Audrey Weber defeated Maria Stuber in the womens final.
Related:
Photoset from Mark Milford: Elite Sprints, Barnebirkie
Results: Mens Sprints, Womens Sprints

Olympics: Demong Gold, Spillane Silver in Nordic Combined
February 25, 2010
Overcoming at 46 second deficit, Billy Demong joined with teammate Johnny Spillane to catch leader Bernhard Gruber in the cross-country portion of the large hill nordic combined. On the final hill, Demong put down a monster effort, dropping Gruber, followed by Spillane sprinting past Gruber as well, as the pair skied into the finish to seize gold and silver medals for the US team! It marks the first gold medal by an American in any Nordic sport. The incredible performance was shown tape-delayed in a premium position primetime on NBC TV.
Related:
Video: Demong's push to the finish, Event Recap
NBC Summary: Demong wins Nordic combined gold
Olympics: Randall Leads U.S. in Womens Relay
Olympics: Demong named U.S. flagbearer for closing ceremonies

Olympics: Swedes Take Mens Relay
February 24, 2010
The Swedish team continued their strong Olympic performance, taking the mens relay at Whistler Thursday. But the story on the day was the incredible performance by Norway's Petter Northug who single-handedly took his team from fifth place to a silver medal. Canada turned in a disappointing 7th place after hopes of a possible medal. America was 13th.
Related:
Toko e-Blast: Olympic Report
Olympics: US Team Finishes 13th

Go for Gold at Yellowstone Rendezvous Race
February 24, 2010
Keep the Olympic fever burning with 31st annual Rendezvous Race in West Yellowstone on March 6th. Registration deadline is noon on March 4th.

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
February 23, 2010
The Skinnyski Race team was out across the region competing in a number of fine events over the weekend. Read Elaine's double race weekend recap.

Sleeping Giant: Double Take on Bib #1
February 23, 2010
This year, organizers of the Sleeping Giant Loppet are thrilled to be presenting the honour of Bib #1 to two individuals who have skied every year since the event first began in 1978: Ron Lappage and Guy Latimer. The Sleeping Giant Loppet is scheduled to take place on March 6th in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park just outside Thunder Bay, Canada.

Olympics: US Team Takes Silver in Nordic Combined!
February 23, 2010
The US Ski Team delivered an exciting silver medal performance, scoring the first US team medal in Olympic history and delivering on their own high expectations. The team started the day with some excellent jumping that left them in second place, starting just two seconds behind Finland in the 4 x 5K freestyle relay. Austria quickly made up the gap to the front and the capacity spectating crowd was then treated to an exciting tight battle as the Austrian and US teams skied away from the field. It wasn't until the final downhill than Austria made the winning move, taking the gold medal by a mere five seconds over the US team. NBC showed tape-delayed coverage of the relay in primetime.
Related:
NBC Nordic Combined Recap

MiSSeries: Minnesota Finlandia Recap
February 22, 2010
The Minnesota Skinnyski Series wrapped up last weekend with the 25K pursuit race at the Minnesota Finlandia. Some new and some very familiar faces on the final tally board! Season ending banquet is scheduled for April 10th.
Related:
MiSSeries Current Standings

Olympics: US Skiers Make Team Sprint Finals
February 22, 2010
US pairs of Kikkan Randall and Caitlin Compton and Torin Koos and Andy Newell advanced all the way to the finals of the team sprint events at Whistler Park on Monday. The womens race was a drag race for much of the event with Randall taking the final leg and pulling off a sixth place finish as Germany took the gold medal. The mens race was a slightly more relaxed pace until the final pairing when the fire was lit. Petter Northug delivered for Norway with a spectacular finish to take the victory as the US men faded to ninth. The Canadian men had another strong day taking fourth.
Related:
Olympics: US Men Sprint to 9th in Team Final

Snowflake / Inga-Lami Races Coverage
February 21, 2010
Stuart Thomas reports: With over 189 adult participants in both races the Snowflake Race was the largest it has been in years. There were also over 50 kids ages 3-13 racing in shorter distances with volunteers from the MYSL helping with the event. The men's field was an exciting field with David Duede winning over high school star Jake Brown by 5 seconds. The women's field had Johanna Winters winning handily. Many of the woman participants got into the spirit of a fun event by dressing up in colorful costumes. Even the upcoming Birkie Viking skiers Dave & Josie Nelson were seen in full regalia (complete with real birchleggings). Special thanks to the Baker Park staff for their excellent grooming. Full results plus photo sets from David Owen and Jay Adams.
Related:
Photoset from Robin Thomas: Feb 21 Skijor Race - 42 photos
Results: Feb 21 Gear West Ski Jor Race

Erik Judeen Classic Coverage
February 21, 2010
Dave Johnson writes: Perfect weather greeted the 29 skiers entered in the 2010 Eric Judeen Nordic Ski race held Sunday at Korkki Nordic. Master groomer Marty Heimer and Don Mitchell groomed a track that was described by many as close to heaven as a person can get while still living. The glorious conditions helped lead to a near record breaking performance by Adam Swank. Dr Swank skied the 10k classic course in 28 minutes and 31 seconds just missing the course record of 28:28 set by Olympian John Bauer in 1995. The race for second place was a close one, with Shawn Miller edging out Tyler Kjorstad by just 2 seconds. Top woman Elaine Nelson over came a tough fall at the start to finish 13th place overall (to do so she had to pass 16 skiers on the narrow Korkki Trail). Full results (truly old school: handwritten) and photos from Jonathan Rulseh.

SuperTour: Madison Criterium
February 21, 2010
The Madison Winter Fest featured SuperTour criterium racing on the streets of Madison Saturday. Rebecca Dussault and Phil Widmer collected victories.
Related:
Photoset from Renee Callaway: Madison Winter Fest
Results: Criterium

Stump Farm Results
February 21, 2010
Scott Putman writes: The 2010 Stump Farm 20k was won going away by Chad Tolbert and Gina Elmer under great conditions. Kyler Berg and Siri Block won the 5k in a tighter race. We had a total on 98 skiers finish the 5k and the 20k combined. The new single lap course was a hit. The Bay Area Nordic little skier races had over 50 little striders and skaters out prior to the headline races.
Related:
Twin Ports Championships Coverage

Book Across the Bay Results
February 20, 2010
Over 1,700 skiers jumped on the snowpack of Chequamegon Bay for the annual Book Across the Bay race. Andre Watt beat Adam Swank by a hair to win the close mens race. Hilary Patzer held off Elaine Nelson for the womens victory.

Olympics: Canadians Score Three Skiers in Mens Pursuit Top Ten
February 20, 2010
Canada had a historic day Saturday in the mens 30K pursuit as they placed three men in the top 10: Ivan Babikov 5th, George Grey 8th, Alex Harvey 9th (and all three beat both Petter Northug and Dario Cologna, two of the best skiers in the World!). Sweden continued to have a strong Olympics taking gold and bronze with Marcus Hellner and Johan Olsson. The top American was George Southam in 34th.
Related:
Olympics: US Men Push Through Tough Pursuit
Toko e-Blast Olympic Report
US Ski Team Joins Forces to Help Host Kids Day Event at Whistler

Minnesota Finlandia Coverage
February 20, 2010
A beautiful winter morning at Buena Ski ski trails on Saturday morning for the Minnesota Finlandia events. Temperatures climbed into the upper teens by start under mostly sunny skies and light winds. Classical skiers went out first in the 25K classical and pursuit races, followed a half hour later the freestyle skiers. Brothers Joe and Ben Dubay took the classical race, with Joe collecting the first place position. Ingrid Olson was the top classical woman. In the 25K pursuit titles went to Nathan Porath and Mary Beth Tuttle. The 25K freestyle race came down to a pair of sprints with Blake Hillerson edging out Jake Richards for the mens victory and Anne Ellefson just pulling ahead of Robin Tedlund for the womens division. The mens 50K race featured the trio of lead skiers Andy Liebner, Zack Simons and Andrew Johnson. In the run to the finish, it was Liebner that lead the pack across the field to take the title. Diana Munger collected the big axe for the womens victory. Results posted along with photos from the classical and 50K race. Additional photos from Karen Skoyles and Kris Kolar posted.
Related:
Skiers vs Cyclists TT Coverage

Olympics: Petra Majdic Won Bronze Sprint Medal with Major Injuries
February 20, 2010
Slovenian cross-country skier Petra Majdic had four broken ribs and a collapsed lung when she won a bronze medal earlier this week, injuries that will keep her out for the rest of the season and have prompted a protest by her national team.

Olympics: Renner Finishes 10th in Womens Pursuit
February 19, 2010
Friday afternoon at the Vancouver Olympics featured the womens 15K pursuit race with 7.5K classical followed by an on the fly switch to 7.5K freestyle. Norway's Marit Bjorgen continued her comeback tour with another victory, stomping away from the womens field to take the gold medal. Canada's Sara Renner had the top North American result with a strong 10th place finish. Morgan Arritola was the top US skier finishing 38th. Caitlin Compton was 43rd. NBC carried live TV coverage of the event.

Minnesota Finlandia Pre-Race Notes
February 18, 2010
Pre-race notes on the Minnesota Finlandia, including new start times for the races and a new location for the awards ceremony.

Olympics: US Team Comes Up Short in Sprints
February 17, 2010
A disappointing day Wednesday in the classical sprint events at the Winter Olympics for the US Ski Team. The US men failed to have their two veteran stars, Andy Newell and Torin Koos even qualify for the quarterfinals as only relative newcomer Simi Hamilton advanced. Kikkan Randall had slightly better results, posting the 10th fastest qualifier and advancing to the semifinals based on time before losing out (8th overall). Canada had similar disappointment as 2006 gold medalist Chandra Crawford wasn't a major factor in the results today.
Related:
Video: Mens Sprint Final, Womens Sprint Final

MiSSeries: City of Lakes Loppet and Mora Vasaloppet Recaps
February 17, 2010
After some publishing delays the Minnesota Skinnyski Series results have finally been updated to include both the City of Lakes Loppet and Mora Vasaloppet results. The competition wraps up this weekend with the final event, the Minnesota Finlandia, with a number of titles still hanging in the balance.
Related:
MiSSeries Current Standings

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
February 16, 2010
A big weekend on the calendar with a number of major races going on. Read race reports from the Pre-Birkie and Mora Vasaloppet from Paulette Niemi, Grant Nelson, and Elaine Nelson.

Finlandia Weekend Approaches Under Perfect Conditions
February 16, 2010
Minnesota Finlandia organizers are excited for the 2010 event this weekend as course conditions are some of the best on record. The Finlandia wraps up the Minnesota Skinnyski Series with racing in a 25K duathlon format event. There are 25K and 50K races as well, all of which feature unique rosemaled axes for the overall winners.
Related:
Special TrekNorth Finlandia Lodging

Olympics: Tough Day for US Ski Team
February 15, 2010
Monday marked the opening day of cross-country skiing events with the womens 10K and mens 15K freestyle races. Minneapolis' Caitlin Compton was the top American in a tough day for the US team as she skied to a 30th place finish, 1:50 behind Sweden's Charlotte Kalla. In the mens race, James Southam had the best US placing, finishing 48th. Twin Cities native Garrott Kuzzy was 58th. Canadian men had a better day with former Russian Ivan Babikov placing 8th and Alex Harvey 21st. Switzerland's Dario Cologna was the gold medalist.
Related:
MPR Pre-Race Interview with Caitlin Compton
Garrott Kuzzy's Blog: Olympian
Toko e-Blast: Olympic Waxing Monday Report
Olympics: 15K Free Kicks Off XC Men's Slate

Mora Vasaloppet Coverage
February 14, 2010
A beautiful firm track and steady NW winds made for one of the fastest Vasaloppet races on record. Matt Liebsch easily collected his second title in a row, and Kristina Owen made it a CXC sweep in the 58K freestyle. Evan Pengelly won the drag strip finish in the 42K classical edging out Jacob Beste and three other skiers. Youngster Molly Watkins was the top female. In the 35K freestyle, Nathan Porath solo'd in for the mens victory, Mary Beth Tuttle, last year's 58K winner, returned to the 35K to claim the womens title. The 13K titles went to Adam Nelson and Marissa Yovetich. Full results linked in, plus photos from 58K and 13K races.
Related:
North End Classic Results

Olympics: Spillane Takes Historic Silver!
February 14, 2010
The US Nordic Combined absolutely delivered on high expectations with a stunning race on Sunday. The US men had three in the lead pack by the final lap, with Billy Demong making up an incredible 1:20 deficit. After Todd Lodwick lead for most of the race, it was Johnny Spillane that put on the game breaking move with 2K to go, and lead right down to the final corner before being outsprinted by #1 ranked Jason Lamy-Chappuis of France. Spillane held for second place, Lodwick fourth and Demong sixth. NBC showed the race live, including the final 4K commercial free.
Related:
Video: Mens Biathlon 10K Sprint, Nordic Combined Highlights
Olympics: Teela Places 9th in Biathlon 10km Sprint
Olympics: XC Will Get First Start Monday

Pre-Birkie Coverage
February 13, 2010
Over 750 skiers hit the Birkie trail on Saturday for the annual Pre-Birkie races. Jan Mydra topped the 42K field with Paulette Niemi winning the womens division. Jonathan Rulseh and Jena Ogston were the 26K champions. Full results plus two photosets.

Olympic XC Predictions
February 12, 2010
Once again this Olympics, Mark Lahtinen is organizing a "you-pick-em" contest for the Nordic skiing events. List the top three for each event, along with the top North American skier. Entries must be received by Sunday night, Feb 14th!
Related:
NBC Olympic Cross-Country Skiing TV Schedule

US Ski Team: Set to Chase Medals
February 10, 2010
Although the U.S. has just one cross country medal in Olympic history - Bill Koch won silver in 1976 - results for men and women have improved dramatically on the international stage, and Americans are poised to chase medals on both sides of the draw in Vancouver. The 11-member U.S. Olympic Cross Country Ski Team met the media today in Vancouver before heading north to Whistler.

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
February 9, 2010
Another big classical race with a strong Nelson turn out for the City of Lakes Loppet, plus Mark Parman racing in the Badger State Games. Read one wild ride from Chip and Margie's illuminating recap.

MNJRC Season Kick-Off Meeting Feb 12th
February 8, 2010
MNJRC, the Minnesota Juniors Cycling organization, will hold their annual kickoff meeting this Friday, February 12th at KSTP in St. Paul.

Arrowhead Ultra Results
February 8, 2010
Cheryl Ostor writes: The Arrowhead 135 mile Ultra Marathon took place under optimal weather conditions on Feb 1-3rd. A record number of 61 racers out of 102 starters reached the finish line. Jeff Oatley of Alaska, the overall winner, finished on bike in 16 hours 17 minutes with bikers Pete Basinger, Alaska and record holder, Dave Pramann of Minnesota, a few seconds behind. All finishers receive a unique custom handmade arrowhead trophy. Next year, the City of International Falls will offer a purse to top finishers in each category. Several records were broken on foot and bike, but the ski record held by Phillipp Finzel remains at 36h 35 min.
Related:
Int'l Falls Journal: Arrowhead 135 Intro

City of Lakes Loppet Sunday Coverage
February 7, 2010
Sunday's Loppet races featured the new stadium start area, which allowed fields to roll out on a fairly flat to downhill terrain over the opening kilometer. Weather conditions were ideal with temps in the low 20s and firm, fast trails. In the 35K freestyle, Matt Liebsch (just back from Canmore World Cup) took the lead from nearly the opening gun and held off a hard pressing Josh Smullin to take the victory. Andre Watt took the sprint for third. Kristina Owen lead a CXC podium sweep with Maria Stuber and Johanna Winters for the womens 35K. In the classical race, Andy Liebner powered off the front of the mens field to win handily. Audrey Weber topped the womens classic division. Results posted now along with nearly 1200 photos broken into 12 photosets.

Mt. Ashwabay Summit Ski Race Results
February 6, 2010
Scott Nesvold writes: The Mt. Ashwabay Summit ski race was a tight duel between local High School racer Scott Johanik and many time Stormy Kromer winner Jonathon Rulson. With a home field advantage, Scott came out on top this time with a time of 32:29. A former skier of 4H-CANSKI, Catie Cogger, walked away with the womens title in 40:16. The 3.5 km race mens race was won by 4H-CANSKI skier James Gilbertson. The womens 3.5 km was won by Britta Schropter. Including the kids 1/2 km kids race, over 100 skiers enjoyed beautiful conditions and lots of pie and cookies.
Related:
Badger State Games Results

Moraloppet Results
February 6, 2010
Over 60 skiers participated in the mini-tuneup for the Vasaloppet, the Moraloppet, Saturday on the trails at the Vasaloppet Nordic Center. Chip Gerdin and Kim Kylander won the 14K race, Pedro Pesta and Jessica Olen the 7k event.

City of Lakes Loppet Saturday Events Coverage
February 6, 2010
Big crowds turned out all day for the City of Lakes Loppet Saturday events. Mild temperatures in the mid-20s made it almost a perfect winter day, especially with a few brief glimpses of the sun. The day was packed with events starting with the snow sculpting in the morning, ice bike racing, a huge ski-jor race, the Junior Loppet and Minneloppet events, sprints in the late afternoon, and capped with the Luminary Loppet night ski on Isles (whew!). Sunday will feature the big races from Wirth to the uptown finish.
Related:
Photoset: Snow Sculptures - 27 photos, Ice Bike Races - 73 photos, Skijor Races - 104 photos, Junior Loppet - 89 photos, MinneLoppet - 143 photos
Photoset from Dick Anderson: Sprints - 28 photos
Video from Bill Lundberg: Ice-Cycle Loppet Advanced Race, Skijor Race
Video from Scott Brown: Skijor Race
Results: Saturday Events

Canmore World Cup: Compton 14th
February 5, 2010
In the final tune up races before the Olympics, Caitlin Compton scored an impressive 14th place finish on Friday in the womens 10K freestyle in Canmore. Matt Liebsch and Garrott Kuzzy also had solid results in the mens 15K, finishing 29th and 33rd respectively.
Related:
Results: Canmore World Cup 10K, 15K Freestyle
Canmore World Cup: U.S. Qualifies Seven in Canmore Sprints

MiSSeries: Nordic Spirit Recap
February 3, 2010
The MiSSeries is in mid-season form with four races now in the books and just three to go. Michael Meehlhause recaps the action from the Nordic Spirit last weekend.

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
February 2, 2010
The Skinnyski Race Team was competing in three events over the weekend with a number of podium placings to their credit. Read race stories from Paulette, Grant, Elaine and Dave (Karl).

Vasaloppet Expects Very Good Race Course Conditions
February 2, 2010
Mora Vasaloppet organizers report trails should be in good condition for the big race on Valentines Day, Feb 14th.

Upcoming Vasaloppet Events
February 1, 2010
The Vasaloppet has two "pre" events coming up before the big race. The first is this Saturday with the Moraloppet, a 7K or 14K race on the trails at the Vasaloppet Nordic Center. And the other is big-time sprints at the Nordic Center on Saturday, Feb 13th.

Birkie Cap Reached
February 1, 2010
The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation announced they have reached the field limit for the Birkie/Kortie with over 7,500 skiers registered. However, they have decided to hold registration open until 2 pm Wednesday, Feb 3rd to allow one last opportunity for skiers.
City of Lakes Loppet: The classic division registration closed this morning.

Marine/O'Brien Race Coverage
February 1, 2010
The 39th annual Marine/O'Brien race saw a huge spike in popularity this year as record field of nearly 400 skiers turned out. The 25K freestyle race was the big event of the day with nearly 200 skiers competing. A lead group of four broke away and brought it in for a sprint finish with Jacob Beste edging out Ben Popp for the victory. Carolyn Bramante was the womens champ. In the mens 25K classical, Chris Harvey and Michele Oja took the titles. In the one lap 12.5K races, freestyle titles went to William Stoltz and Jen Rolfes, classical crowns for Matthew Bernston and Katie Anderson. Full results posted, along with a few photos.
Related:
Marine/O'Brien Ski Race Recap Press Release

SuperTour: Telemark Freestyle
January 31, 2010
Another exciting day of racing with the "hometown" CXC boys Brian Gregg and Matt Liebsch dominating the mens field, finishing in a two up sprint with the nod going to Gregg. Rebecca Dussault continued her strong season with Maria Stuber once again notching second.
Related:
Photoset from CXC: 14 photos
Results: 10K, 15K freestyle

Nordic Spirit Results
January 31, 2010
Nordic Spirit ski races were held Sunday with near perfect conditions and included the infamous uphill start at Spirit Mountain. Tyler Kjorstad blew off the front of the mens field to win the 25K race by nearly three minutes. Nathan Porath outsprinted the four man pursuit pack for second with Matt Ryan third. Mary Beth Tuttle notched another victory, staying in front of Johanna Winters and Elaine Nelson for the womens title. The 13K freestyle races were won by Luke Baker and Sondra Mowers. 10K classical victories went to Steve Kramer and Jen Pearson.
Related:
Lumberjack Jaunt Results

Loppet Shoveling Parties
January 30, 2010
While most of the Loppet course is in very good condition, organizers are seeking volunteers to help improve a few areas, especially on the lakes. Shovelers and folks with plows are encouraged to come out for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon events.

SuperTour: Telemark Classical
January 30, 2010
Bryan Cook and Rebecca Dussault topped the field in Saturday's U.S. Super Tour 5K/10K classic at Telemark. Matt Liebsch and Brian Gregg rounded out the mens podium. Maria Stuber and Melissa Schwartz join Dussault on the womens podium. Racing continues Sunday with the freestyle races.
Related:
Results: 5K/10K Classical

Noquemanon Results
January 30, 2010
A strong field of over 1000 skiers turned out Saturday for the Noquemanon ski races in Marquette. According to early results... The classical 51K marathon continues to be the premiere race and this year it was former Olympian Andrew Johnson edging out Bjorn Batdorf for the mens title with Hilary Patzer topping Lindsey Dehlin in the womens division. Chad Tolbert, who has had a hot season in SE Wisconsin, came and conquered the mens 51K freestyle field. Paulette Niemi continued her streak of victories in the womens event. The half distance 25K freestyle titles went to Tyler Jenema and Barb Beauregard, 25K classical crowns for John McFadden and Chandra Ziegler.

City of Lakes Loppet Classic Field Almost Full
January 30, 2010
The City of Lakes Loppet is also running higher registration numbers this season, especially in the classical race (part of the MiSSeries). The classic race is expected to fill very soon, so get your late registration in. Also, new wave starts for the classical race.

Update from Thunder Bay Nordic Trails
January 29, 2010
The snow is shaping up nicely for the annual Sleeping Giant Loppet in Thunder Bay on March 6th. Thunder Bay Nordic Trails will host the Kamview Tour next weekend, Feb 6th.

Chequamegon Entry Forms Available
January 29, 2010
Chequamegon dirt may be frozen solid and covered with two feet of winter's finest but its a great time to download a copy of the 2010 Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival entry blank. Completed entry blanks and payment must be postmarked by the March 15 submission date to be included in this year's registration lottery to select the lucky 2500 who will ride in either the Chequamegon 40 or Short & Fat 16.

MiSSeries: Pepsi Challenge Recap
January 28, 2010
The Minnesota Skinnyski Series is heating up with three events on the books now. The first set of team standings have been posted, and this year the Cheaters are looking to stack the deck with three(!) teams in the competition.

US Ski Team: Final Skier Added to Olympic XC Team
January 28, 2010
A final skier has been added to the 2010 Olympic Cross Country Ski Team. Simi Hamilton, a former All American from Middlebury College, was announced Thursday after the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association received an 11th and final quota spot.

American Birkebeiner Almost Full!
January 27, 2010
With a month to go, there are already 7050 skiers registered for the Birkie and Kortelopet. The registration cap for the 2010 Birkie/Korte is 7500 skiers -- you'd better register today!
Update Jan 29: Registrations are up over 7200 now, may close this weekend!
Related:
New Birkie Wave Start Times Announced

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
January 26, 2010
Quite the classical weekend for the Nelson division of the Skinnyski Race Team, read race stories from Grant and Elaine Nelson.

US Ski Team: Olympic Cross Country Team Expanded
January 26, 2010
A week after naming the 2010 Olympic Cross Country Ski Team, two additional athletes have been added to the roster with expanded quotas received Tuesday by the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association. Named to the Olympic Team were Garrot Kuzzy (Minneapolis) and Holly Brooks (Anchorage). (Photo: Twin Cities Olympians, Caitlin Compton and Garrott Kuzzy -- credit: Garrott Kuzzy)
Related:
Garrott Kuzzy Olympic Team Selection Blog Posting

Fridtjof Nansen Results
January 24, 2010
John Burke reports: Sixty plus competitors braved the nasty wet rain/snow conditions at Tower Ridge of the Fridtjof Nansen Ski Race in Eau Claire Sunday. The wet snow made for very slow conditions and the racers all got a good workout. Dale Niggemann and Cheri Uelmen were crowned the 15K freestyle champs.

Mayor's Challenge Classical SuperTour/JOQ Coverage
January 24, 2010
Skiers awoke to a foggy and damp morning in Minneapolis for the second day of the SuperTour/JOQ at Theodore Wirth. The trails, while not looking pretty, were regroomed and double tracked for the mass start race. Brian Gregg pulled out the winning move to take victory in the mens race in a close battle overall. Rebecca Dussault made it a weekend sweep as she pressed a lead to victory in the womens race.
Related:
Photoset: Mens Classical - 311 photos, Womens Classical - 241 photos
Photoset from Ed Swain: Mens Classical - 149 photos
Photoset from Mark Lahtinen: Mens Classical - 194 photos, Womens Classical - 168 photos
Results: Mayor's Challenge SuperTour/JOQ

Lapham Loppet Results
January 23, 2010
Nearly 150 skiers cranked out 11K at Lapham Peak Saturday morning in the annual Lapham Loppet race. Chad Tolbert pulled away from Thomas Stuber and close group of chasers to take the overall title. Kim Hughes topped the womens field.

Balsam Vinter Fest Coverage
January 23, 2010
Skiers braved icy roads and brief rain showers to hit the trails at Balsam Branch for the annual Vinter Fest races. Craig Cardinal and Chip Tabor broke away and worked to three minute lead in the 20K race then sprinted out the finish with Cardinal taking the victory. Hilary Patzer cruised in for the womens title and 7th overall. Full results and photos posted.

Pepsi Challenge Coverage
January 23, 2010
In a surprising reversal of many recent Pepsi Challenge races, it was almost tropical instead of sub-zero temperatures that greeted racers on Saturday morning in Biwabik. Andy Liebner, all the way from Michigan, topped Adam Swank in the mens 50K free. Carolyn Bramante easily won the womens division. In the 50K classical, Travis Hinck and Josie Nelson walked away with the striding titles. Grant Nelson and Angie Robinson won the MiSSeries scoring 25K classical race. Swix wax rep Joshua Korn skated to victory in the 25K freestyle, with Jena Ogston just edging out Deborah Sussex for the womens field. Full results linked in, photos from Jonathan Rulseh, Julie Wenner, and David Owen.
Related:
Hormel Nature Center Race Results

Mayor's Challenge Freestyle SuperTour/JOQ Results
January 23, 2010
The SuperTour arrived in Minneapolis for two days of racing at the 2011 Junior National course at Theodore Wirth. Matt Liebsch, Twin Cities native, put on some major hurt posting the only sub 23 minute time of the day in taking the mens 10K race. CXC made it a title sweep as Rebecca Dussault won the womens 5K.
Related:
Results: Mayor's Challenge SuperTour/JOQ
Ari Ofsevit Mayor's Challenge Day 1 Race Report

Changes to Barnebirkie Announced
January 21, 2010
The famed kids race, the Barnebirkie, will have a new start/finish location this season. Skiers will still finish on Main Street Hayward, but will now start at the Hayward Primary School.

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
January 20, 2010
The ever popular Seeley Hills Classic brought out much of the Skinnyski Race Team as they scored a number of top ten finishes. Read full race stories from Elaine Nelson and Mark Parman.
Related:
Jan 16 Edgewood Winter Blast Results Posted

US Ski Team: Olympic Cross Country Team Announced
January 19, 2010
World Championship medalist Kikkan Randall, along with Andy Newell and Kris Freeman headline a group of eight athletes announced Tuesday by the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) for the 2010 Olympic Cross Country Ski Team. Twin Cities-based Caitlin Compton also earned a position on the team. Surprisingly, Garrott Kuzzy was left off the list.
Related:
Garrott Kuzzy Olympic Team Selection Blog Posting

Greenbush Challenge Results
January 18, 2010
Sunday's Greenbush Challenge drew out nearly 150 skiers to the famed SE Wisconsin trails. Thomas Stuber collected his second victory of the weekend in a photo finish over Chad Tolbert. Joellen Torresani was the top womens finisher.

US Ski Team: Newell Just Misses Semis in Estonia
January 17, 2010
Andy Newell missed out on the semifinal round by an eyelash at the Viessman FIS World Cup sprint in Estonia on Saturday, finishing 13th after qualifying sixth. Sweden's Emil Joensson won on the men's side and Hanna Falk on the women's.
Related:
Nordic Combined: Demong Takes Lead for U.S. in 4th

Boulder Lake Ski Race Results
January 17, 2010
Boulder Lake Ski Race was the second stop on the Minnesota Skinnyski Series with the 31K freestyle race on Sunday. Adam Swank made it 2-for-2 over the weekend, taking the Seeley on Saturday and topping the mens field at Boulder today. Joe Dubay and Tyler Kjorstad rounded out the top three. Mary Beth Tuttle repeated as the womens champion, two minutes ahead of Carolyn Bramante and Angie Robinson. In the 10K freestyle race, Dudley Coulter and Kara Jaspers, both of Thunder Bay, took the titles.
Related:
Jan 16-17 Copper Loppet, Copper Island Classic Results

Seeley Hills Classic Coverage
January 16, 2010
Nearly 600 skiers turned out for a fantastic day of classical skiing on the Birkie trail in the Seeley Hills Classic. Adam Swank powered ahead of Andre Watt and Bjorn Batdorf to take the victory in the premiere 44K event. Johanna Winters cruised ahead of the womens field, taking the crown by nearly a five minute margin. Santiago Ocariz won the mens 22K race, posting the only sub-hour time! Carolyn Free captured the womens 22K event. Full results plus photosets from Scott Nesvold and Julie Wenner.
Related:
Jan 16 Seeley Hills High School Race Results

Snekkevik Results
January 16, 2010
John Burke reports: Over 300 races took part in today’s Snekkevik Ski Race in Wausau. This race was recently featured in Silent Sports as possibly Wisconsin's second oldest ski race (only the Birkie is older). Fast conditions made for some excellent racing as Tom Stuber of Waukesha won the 12K classic race and followed it up with a win in the 12K skate race. On the women's side, Barb Bradley and Brittany Drengler, both of Wausau, won the classic and skate races respectively. The high school classic race was won by Adam Martin from the Wausau West/East team and Felicia Geisor of Peak Nordic took top honors for the girls.

Olympians Receive Free Lifetime Birkie Entries
January 15, 2010
The American Birkebeiner has announced lifetime complimentary race entries for Olympians.
Related:
2010 Birkie Skiers for Cures

MYSL Team Sprint Results
January 13, 2010
MYSL Team Sprint series is taking off with more teams participating each week. Wednesday evening at Wirth featured a tight battle between Chris Sachs/Dave Duede and Jake Boyce/Nes Dyste teams with the Sachs/Duede duo winning by just 20 seconds in the 8 x 1.2K relay.
Related:
Jan 13 Elm Creek Series Results Posted

Minnesota Skinnyski Series Team Competition
January 12, 2010
Race commissioner Michael Meehlhause highlights the Minnesota Skinnyski Series Team Competition including some of its famous/infamous history. Have you signed up your team yet?
Related:
MiSSeries: Twin Cities Championships Recap

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
January 12, 2010
Paulette Niemi recaps her race, and some background on the new SISU Ski Fest.

Sawtooth Results
January 10, 2010
Cory Berg reports: The Sawtooth International lived up to it's name today as many skiers made the trip south of the border from Thunder Bay to race on the Pincushion Trails in Grand Marais. There was a great turn out of Minnesota and Wisconsin skiers as well and course conditions were fantastic. Adam Kates won men's the 10 km classic race and Kerrie Fabius edged out Britt Bailey to win the women's 10 km classic race. Mike Somppi took the win in 20 km freestyle race and Jenna Krueger of Aurora took the women's 20 km freestyle title.

24 Hours of Telemark Results
January 10, 2010
The 24 Hours of Telemark wrapped up racing action on Sunday morning. Some of the winners: 24 Solo Freak Male - Chester Fehrmann, Freak Female - Beth Barrett; 24 Big Team - UMD; 24 Men - Nordic Nutz, 24 Women - Pipsqueaks and Me. Full results posted along with nice shots from Darlene Prois.

Biathlon: US Olympic Team Nominations
January 10, 2010
The US Biathlon association has posted their nominations for the 2010 Olympic team. Wynn Robert of Battle Lake, MN, was one of the five men nominated!

Green Acres Grand Opening Race Coverage
January 10, 2010
Green Acres celebrated their grand opening on Sunday with free skiing, a big food spread, equipment demos, door prizes and a fast 5K skate race. The race course featured much of the Green Acres terrain, including a "mountain top" finish on Per's Plunge. Nathan Porath broke away half way into the race and sailed in for the solo victory. Corey Coogan Cisek and Melissa Macmillen shared the lead until they hit Gallon's Gallop where Corey pulled away to for the womens title. Full results and photos posted.

Biathlon: History Repeats for Tim Burke With 2nd Place Finish
January 10, 2010
Tim Burke continued to make biathlon history today finishing in second place in the mass start World Cup event in Oberhof, Germany - the first ever mMass start medal for a U.S. athlete - and resuming the top spot as Overall Leader in IBU World Cup standings.

Nordic Combined: Demong, Lodwick Historic 1-2 Finish
January 10, 2010
It was history in the making in Italy Sunday as World Champions Billy Demong and Todd Lodwick took first and second, marking the first time two U.S. athletes have made the FIS Nordic Combined World Cup podium together.

Marine/O'Brien Race Coming Up
January 9, 2010
The 39th annual Marine/O'Brien race is coming up on Sunday, January 31st at William O'Brien State Park, located just north of Marine on the St. Croix. There are 12K and 25K distance events, as well as a wide range of kids races in the afternoon.

SISU Ski Fest Results
January 9, 2010
Nearly 300 skiers turned out for the inaugural SISU Ski Fest races Saturday in Ironwood. The new point-to-point race featured much of the ABR trail system then rolled north to finish in downtown Ironwood. Adam Swank and Paulette Niemi sailed to the titles in the 42K freestyle, both winning by almost five minutes. Joe Dubay held off Timo Puiras to take the 42K classical race with Kerrie Fabius easily topping the womens field. In the 21K races, freestyle crowns went to Santiago Ocariz and Carolyn Freeman, classic titles to Judson Steinback and Joan Rundman.
Related:
Valley Spur Ski Bash Results Posted

Pre-Loppet Coverage
January 9, 2010
Test driving the new City of Lakes Loppet start area, the Pre-Loppet squeezed over 150 skiers into the first kilometers of the snowmaking and onto the opening half of the Loppet course. It was a Loppet staff/volunteer podium sweep as John Swain took the victory in front of Jonathan Miller and John Munger. The orange Rossi trio of Carolyn Braemante, Kim Rudd and Hilary Patzer, along with Jan Guenther skiing strong, dominated the womens race with Patzer moving in front at the line in a sprint win over Braemante. Full results and photoset posted.
Related:
Joliet Nordic Coverage Posted

US Nationals: Classical Sprints
January 8, 2010
US Nationals in Anchorage wrapped up Friday with another sprint race, this time in classical format. It was a tough finish for the Midwest stars as folks like Garrott Kuzzy, Caitlin Compton and Matt Liebsch did not advance out of their quarterfinals. Erik Soederstroem and Kikkan Randall won the sprint finals. Top midwest results: Lindsay Williams 2nd B final; Bryan Cook 3rd B final, Chris Cook 4th B final.
Related:
Results: Classical Sprints
Toko's Report from US Nationals Classical Sprints

US Nationals: Classical
January 6, 2010
Wednesday at US Nationals featured the mid-distance classical races, 20K for women and 30K for men. James Southam captured top honors, a little more a minute in front of Kris Freeman with Bryan Cook taking third. Kikkan Randall collected yet another title, holding off Holly Brooks by just 10 seconds. Caitlin Compton uncorked another big race, finishing third. Other top Midwest results: Brian Gregg 5th, Santiago Ocariz 16th, Lindsey Dehlin 10th, Maria Stuber 12th, Katie Bono 13th, Kristina Owen 20th.
Related:
Photoset from Ben Dubay: Classical
Results: Classical
Swix Post Race Report
Toko's Report from US Nationals Classical

Skinnyski Race Team Weekend Recap
January 5, 2010
The Skinnyski Race Team took to action last weekend, competing in the big two-day races, the Stormy Kromer Pursuit and Twin Cities Championships. Read race recaps from John Munger and Grant Nelson.

US Nationals: Freestyle Races
January 4, 2010
US Nationals continued on Monday with the 10K and 15K freestyle races. Caitlin Compton continues to ramp up her fitness, finishing second today with only Kikkan Randall in front by just 10 seconds. CXC's Tad Elliot had a breakout race finishing second overall, just 24 seconds back of winner Kris Freeman. Matt Liebsch also put in another strong race, finishing fourth overall. Other top midwest results: Chris Cook 8th, Brian Gregg 9th, Garrott Kuzzy 17th, Santiago Ocariz 18th; Maria Stuber 23rd.
Related:
Photoset from Ben Dubay: Freestyle
Photoset from Toko: US Nationals Freestyle
Results: 10K, 15K freestyle
US Ski Team: Newell 6th in Tour Sprint

Twin Cities Championships Day 2 Coverage
January 3, 2010
The Twin Cities Championships capped a glorious weekend series with an exciting multi-pursuit format at Theodore Wirth on Sunday. Spotting Bjorn Batdorf just a 15 second lead, Matt Weier quickly made up the gap and the pair skied strongly away from the field. Weier lead into the final kilometer and held on for the overall title. With the absence of Anna McLoon, Johanna Winters started in first and never looked back, taking the womens pursuit title. Full results, plus a big photoset now online.
Related:
Video: Post-race Interviews
Storm Kromer Freestyle/Pursuit Results

US Ski Team: Newell Sprints to Eighth at Tour de Ski
January 3, 2010
The U.S. Ski Team's Andy Newell finished eighth in the Tour de Ski's third stage Sunday in Oberhof, Germany, gaining valuable points in the FIS World Cup sprint standings.

Nordic Combined: Spillane Takes First World Cup Win
January 3, 2010
Johnny Spillane blew away the cross country field Sunday, finishing over 30 seconds ahead of the pack to take the first World Cup win of his career in Oberhof.

Waukeska County XC Ski Race Results
January 2, 2010
The SE Wisconsin racing season fired up the New Year with a fast paced event at Nashotah Park. A tight finished saw four skiers finish within 10 seconds of the lead as Thomas Stuber took the victory. Joelle Wightman easily captured the womens title. Full results posted.
Related:
Blue Hills Ascent Coverage

US Nationals: Freestyle Sprints
January 2, 2010
Garrott Kuzzy was edged out by 1.5 seconds in the mens sprint final and had to settle for third place as US Nationals got underway with the opening event Saturday in Anchorage. Kuzzy had posted the second fastest qualifier, but it was Simeon Hamilton that had the top qualifier and eventually won the mens final. Kikkan Randall won the womens final (and fastest qualifier), but Caitlin Compton continues to show good sprint form, taking third in the qualifier and fifth in a tough womens final.
Related:
Photoset from Ben Dubay: Sprints
Results: Qualifiers, Final Heats
US Ski Team: Newell Competes in Tour de Ski
US Ski Team: Newell Maintains Spot at Tour de Ski
Nordic Combined: Spillane 4th in Oberhof World Cup
Toko's Report from US Nationals Freestyle Sprints

Stormy Kromer Results
January 2, 2010
Over 130 skiers gathered in northern Wisconsin for the annual Stormy Kromer race held this weekend. The first stage, classical racing on the Montreal ski trails, was won by Jonathan Rulseh with a 47 second margin over Scott Johanik and Ken Statz in third. Paulette Niemi will take a big margin over the womens field, nearly 3 minutes, into the skate race on Sunday.

Twin Cities Championships Day 1 Coverage
January 2, 2010
A delayed start until noon allowed temperatures to soar to the zero degree mark for the start of the Twin Cities Championships classical race at Battle Creek in St. Paul. The field was packed with the best of the Twin Cities and outstate in a tightly contested battle. Matt Weier and Bjorn Batdorf broke away on the second lap and pushed the pace with Batdorf making the final move to capture a roughly a 15 second margin for Sunday's pursuit freestyle race. Anna McLoon won the womens event but was hotly pursued by Johanna Winters and Kelly Skillicorn throughout the race. Full results and photosets posted. Video clip of start added. Kids results posted.
Related:
Sunday Pursuit Start Lists Posted

Irondale Rice Creek Classic Coverage
January 1, 2010
Irondale volunteers groomed and buffed the Rice Creek trails into an excellent classic race course, complete with some quick turns and numerous short climbs for the Irondale Rice Creek Classic on New Years day. Erik Solsberg strided away with the mens victory while Katherine Himes and Corey Coogan-Cisek exchanged turns for the womens lead before Himes pulled away in the final lap. Full results and complete photoset posted.

2010 Minnesota Skinnyski Series Ready to Go
December 31, 2009
The Minnesota Skinnyski Series kicks off this weekend with the Twin Cities Championship two-day combined event. Battle Creek and Theodore Wirth are reportedly in fine shape for the opener.

Bike Dr: Racing this Weekend, Skiing, Great Gear, New Years
December 30, 2009
Bicycle Doctor's newsletter is packed with info on the racing this weekend, skiing and ski programs, remaining deals, end of year giving and New Year hours.

US Ski Team: XC Champs Set Down in Anchorage
December 30, 2009
One of cross country's biggest and most well known playgrounds, Anchorage, is geared up for it's second season of elite national racing as the U.S. Cross Country Championships hits Kincaid Park to name the nation's best in the sport.
Related:
ADN: A Little Snow Shoveling in Anchorage

Metro Nordic Youth Super Series
December 27, 2009
A new youth race series (kids 13 and under) will debut this winter in the Twin Cities metro area. The series will pair with some of the premiere races to offer a fun introduction into ski racing.
Related:
Jan 2 Marshall Sprints High School Races Are On!

Como Championships Coverage
December 26, 2009
The Como Golf Course Saturday morning was a spin-off of the popular TV show only in Nordic theme, Skiing with the Stars, as Olympic hopefuls and numerous top flite skiers mixed it up with the local master skiers in the Como Championships. The race featured two fast, fast, (did I mention fast?), loops with the traditional layout, freshly groomed earlier this morning. Matt Liebsch peeled off the front almost immediately and sailed in for the easy victory. The battle for second place had Doug DeBold outsprinting Jesse Lang. Johanna Winters lead the womens field but was challenged until the final kilometer by Maria Wik. Big photoset up now along with full results.

Elm Creek Series Coverage
December 23, 2009
As in years past, there was a big turnout Wednesday night for the Holiday edition of the Elm Creek series. Over 30 skiers competed on the man-made snow loop with Anders Bowman and Jenny Beckman posting the top times on the evening.

Biathlon: World Team Trials Day 5 Recap
December 22, 2009
The US Biathlon World Team Trials wrapped up Tuesday with another victory by Battle Lake's Wynn Roberts. Minnesota men did well in the final standings as Wynn Roberts, Leif Nordgren, and Raleigh Goessling finished atop their respective divisions.
Related:
Biathlon World Teams Announced

Biathlon: Tim Burke Takes World Cup Lead!
December 20, 2009
It was a historic day in the US Biathlon world as Tim Burke finished sixth in the Pokljuka World Cup event which pushed him in the the overall lead (and yellow bib) in the World Cup standings! It marks the first time an American has ever lead the Biathlon World Cup.
Related:
US Ski Team: Randall Reaches Points in Rogla
Nordic Combined: Lodwick Nears Podium in Ramsau
Biathlon: World Team Trials Day 4 Recap

Biathlon: World Team Trials Day 3
December 19, 2009
The Biathlon World Team Trials at Mt. Itascsa in Coleraine resumed on Saturday with the sprint format events. A number of Minnesota skiers scored well again, including Wynn Roberts who won the mens 10K event. Addie Byrne and Leif Nordgren won the juniors 7.5K format.
Related:
Photoset from Ron Kutsi: Day 3 - 38 photos

Elk River Race Results
December 19, 2009
A highlight competitive field lined up on the Woodland ski trails in Elk River Saturday morning. The field was stacked with top skiers including the likes of Matt Liebsch who was chased by Doug DeBold, losing to Liebsch by just 22 seconds in the 20K freestyle race. Dartmouth skier and former State Champion Katie Bono just edged out CXC alumni Johanna Winters by a single second for the womens title. Zach McGill and Marissa Yovetich took the 10K crowns.

St. Marys Race Coverage
December 19, 2009
Nearly perfect conditions on Saturday morning for the short-notice race at St. Mary's University in Winona. The hilly course at St. Mary's had an abundance of snow and race temperatures were in the mid 20s. Ben Mogren and Nate Porath broke off early and raced together into the second lap before Mogren dropped Porath to ski in for the victory. Robyn Lauritsen posted the top womens time.

US Ski Team: Newell Leads USA Into Finals
December 19, 2009
American Andy Newell made his first final group of the World Cup season in the men’s sprint on Saturday in Rogla. Newell led all racers in qualifying and won his quarter final heat before advancing as a lucky loser in the semifinals to make the final round, finishing sixth.
Related:
Nordic Combined: Spillane Just Misses Podium Again

Elm Creek Series Coverage
December 17, 2009
The Elm Creek series had a bigger turnout on Wednesday evening as a dozen skiers competed on the man-made snow loop. John Kallemeyn topped the mens field while Julie Kallemeyn was the solo woman.

NorAm: Sovereign Lake Sprints
December 13, 2009
It had to happen sooner or later -- Garrott Kuzzy did NOT win the Sovereign Lake Sprints, instead coming in second to Canada's Phil Widmer in the final. Thunder Bay's Sean Crooks was third. The US women stacked the deck, filling five of the six spots, in the womens final but it was Dasha Gaiazova, Canada, who would take the victory. Junior sensation Jessie Diggins had a spectacular series, finishing fourth in the B final along with Caitlin Compton sixth.
Related:
Results: Sprints

Biathlon World Team Trials Day 2 Recap
December 13, 2009
Cold temperatures delayed the start of the Mt Itasca Biathlon World Team Trials on Sunday morning, but race action eventually got underway. Zach Hall, Anchorage, AK, and Tracy Colliander, Durango, CO, had the top times on the day. Battle Lake native Wynn Roberts has posted the fastest ski times the last two days, but shooting penalties have held him back.

US Ski Team: Randall Just Misses Sprint Final
December 13, 2009
World Championship silver medalist Kikkan Randall got her sprint legs heated up Sunday, landing a seventh-place finish during a World Cup sprint in Davos, Switzerland. Andy Newell had the top US mens result landing him in 22nd.

Preseason Physical Coverage
December 13, 2009
Volunteers shoveled and prodded the Wirth trails into an 8K loop for the Preseason Physical on Sunday. The course featured the new snowmaking loop and branched off to take in most of the trails in the woods behind the Par 3 side. A lead pack of Jonathan Miller, Derek Wallen, Logan Smestad and Zach Handler was pulled apart on the final lap with Wallan and Miller exchanging the pulls at the front before Miller made the decisive move on the final 250m of the snowmaking loop to take the victory. Mary Beth Tuttle led the womens field, following shortly by Hilary Patzer.

Iowa Racing
December 12, 2009
Iowans have their own Tuesday evening race series, featuring the Ashton CC trails on the Univ of Iowa campus. With the big snowfall last week, the series will kickoff this Tuesday, Dec 15th at 7 pm.

NorAm: Sovereign Lake Freestyle Races
December 12, 2009
Americans dominated the Canadian podium at Sovereign Lake in the NorAm freestyle races on Saturday. Familar names at the top of the results this season, Holly Brooks and Garrott Kuzzy padded their resumes with victories in the 10K and 15K skate races. Matt Liebsch had his best results of the season taking third (and fellow CXCer Brian Gregg was 5th) and Caitlin Compton continues to improve as she pulled down a fifth place finish.
Related:
Photoset from Bryan Fish: Silver Star Freestyle Podiums - 2 photos
Results: Freestyle

Biathlon World Team Trials Day 1 Recap
December 12, 2009
The US Biathlon World Team Trials opened on Saturday at Mt Itasca in Coleraine and Mark Johnson and Wynn Roberts provided some big rewards as the Minnesota duo took first and second in the Sprint format. Another Minnesota native, Jenny Wygant, climbed the top step of the womens podium in only her second year in biathlon.
Related:
Results: Sprint

US Ski Team: Freeman 7th in Davos World Cup
December 12, 2009
Two time Olympian Kris Freeman finished seventh for a career best in the 15K freestyle Saturday during the World Cup in Switzerland.
Related:
Biathlon: Burke skis to 10th in World Cup Pursuit
Nordic Combined: Lodwick Wins Snowy Cup

Hoigaards Relays Coverage
December 12, 2009
The Minnesota racing season got underway Saturday morning at Theodore Wirth with the annual Hoigaards Relays. Using a roughly 1K snowmaking loop, teams sped over the fast but hilly terrain skiing two laps for each leg of the relay. The duo of Travis Hinck and Bjorn Batdorf took the overall victory in the masters race. Edina boys had the top juniors time.

Nelsons Named Birkie Warriors for 2010
December 9, 2009
Grant Nelson, Dave and Josie Nelson and their son Karl, have been named to play the roles as the Birkie Warriors for the 2010 event.

Sleeping Giant Ready to Jump
December 8, 2009
Preparations are well underway for the Sleeping Giant Loppet, March 6th, in Thunder Bay. Thunder Bay Nordic Trails has received a major grant for purchasing new Pisten Bully groomer, skiers are on the trails at Kamview, and their head groomer, Peter Crooks, is headed to the Olympics.

Snow Guns Blowing for Biathlon World Team Trials at Mt. Itasca
December 8, 2009
Volunteers from the Mt. Itasca Nordic Ski Association have been working round the clock for the past week to prepare the venue for the start of the Biathlon World Team Trials, Dec 12-22.

SuperTour: Bozeman Classic
December 6, 2009
Another day of crisp temperatures as the SuperTour racers competed in classical format races in Bozeman. James Southam won the mens 15K with the Cook brothers, Bryan and Chris, taking second and third. Holly Brooks continued her domination of the SuperTour series, collecting yet another victory today. Kristin Trystad-Sarrti was second, Rebecca Dussault third.
Related:
Photoset from Ben Dubay: Bozeman Classic
Results: Womens 10K, Mens 15K
Nordic Combined: Spillane Earns Fourth in Lillehammer
US Ski Team: Mens Duo Takes 6th in Team Sprint
Biathlon: Relay Scores 7th in Östersund World Cup
Swix Results on Bozeman SuperTour

SuperTour: Bozeman Sprints
December 5, 2009
Midwest skiers continue to shine on the SuperTour series and none is hotter than Garrott Kuzzy. Kuzzy collected another victory in this short season, posting the top qualifying time and taking victory in the mens sprint final in Bozeman, MT. Wisconsin native Chris Cook was third. Caitlin Compton came back with some strong racing today, assisted by CXC and Bryan Fish, as she posted the top qualifying time and finished second to Holly Brooks in the womens sprint final.
Related:
Photoset from Ben Dubay: Bozeman Sprints
Results: Qualifying Times (partial, unofficial)
Faster Skier Womens Recap
Faster Skier Mens Recap

Biathlon: Burke Takes Historic 3rd in Sprint Format
December 5, 2009
U.S. biathlete Tim Burke made history again, winning a bronze medal in the 10km sprint at Saturday's World Cup competition in Ostersund, Sweden. It is the first ever medal for an American in sprint competition, and first time a U.S. Biathlete has reached the podium twice in the same week. The men's 4 x 7.5km relay (4am CST) and women's 4 x 6km Relay (7am CST) will be shown tomorrow on www.biathlonworld.com. The US men had a best ever relay last year at the Rupholding WC with a 5th place and are looking to improve on that Sunday.

US Ski Team: Newell Seventh in Dusseldorf Sprint
December 5, 2009
Andy Newell marked another World Cup top-10 finish Saturday as he claimed seventh place during a freestyle sprint in Germany. Russia's Alexy Petukhov won.
Related:
Nordic Combined: Spillane Leads U.S. in Lillehammer

Biathlon: 2nd Place for Burke in the World Cup Opener!
December 3, 2009
Piotr Bednarski reports: Tim Burke placed 2nd in the 20km Individual at the openinge Biathlon World Cup race, today, in Ostersund, Sweden. Burke, from Lake Placid, NY, was 35.5 seconds behind Emil Hegle Swendson NOR, and 15 seconds ahead of 3rd place finisher Christof Summan AUT. All had 1 penalty. Starting in his very first World Cup, Kevin Patzoldt of Grand Rapids (Mt Itasca Biathlon), shot a clean race (20 for 20) and finished 69th out of 129 starters. Tim Burke, Kevin Patzoldt, Lowell Bailey, Jeremy Teela and Jay Hakkinen will all start on Saturday in the 10km Sprint. It will be shown live on www.biathlonworld.com at 7:30am CST. The Women's 7.5km Sprint will be live at 4:30am CST.

Nordic Spirit December Special
December 3, 2009
The Nordic Spirit race and tour, January 31, 2010, is now part of the Minnesota Skinnyski Series. Register in December and save.

Kuusamo World Cup Experience
December 1, 2009
Ritva Taipale shares her experience as attache for the World Cup opener in Kuusamo, Finland, last weekend. And check out her collection of photos and video clips!

US Biathlon Athletes Kick Off World Cup Season in Sweden
December 1, 2009
World Cup racing begins Wednesday in Östersund, Sweden as the US Biathlon team looks to follow-up last year’s strong season with their sights set on the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver. Kevin Patzoldt of Grand Rapids will be starting in his first ever World Cup after qualifying for the World Cup team in October. Watch the action live online!

US Ski Team: Freeman Fourth in Career Best Finish
November 29, 2009
Kris Freeman launched himself to a career-best World Cup finish Sunday, working his way just shy of the podium to finish fourth in a 15K classic in Finland. Kikkan Randall led the U.S. women, finishing 18th for her best finish in a non-sprint race.

SuperTour: West Yellowstone Classic
November 28, 2009
The SuperTour races at West Yellowstone wrapped up on Saturday with classical format races. The Midwest boys scored well as Garrott Kuzzy took his second victory of the early season, over 2.5 seconds in front of Wisconsin native Chris Cook with Thunder Bay's Sean Cooks finishing third. Madeleine Williams won the womens event over Holly Brooks and Dasha Gaiazova. Other top Midwest results: Bryan Cook 9th, Matt Liebsch 12th, Brian Gregg 16th; Jessie Diggins 12th, Lindsey Dehlin 17th, Katie Bono 20th, Caitlin Compton 21st.
Related:
Photoset from Swix Sport: Classical - 8 photos
Results: Classic (preliminary)

US Ski Team: Newell 7th in World Cup Sprint
November 28, 2009
Andy Newell started the 2010 World Cup sprint season in top form Saturday, finishing seventh in a classic event in Finland. Kikkan Randall was the top US woman, finishing 36th.

Kuusamo World Cup Update: Friday
November 27, 2009
Ahvo and Ritva Taipale continue their Kuusamo World Cup coverage with a brief report and photos from the preparations on Friday.
Related:
US Ski Team: Ready For World Cup Sprint

SuperTour: West Yellowstone Freestyle
November 27, 2009
The action resumed Friday in West Yellowstone with the freestyle format races on the Rendezvous ski trails. The mens 15K race fielded nearly ten skiers within a minute margin lead by Leif Zimmermann, Garrott Kuzzy and Noah Hoffman. In the womens 10K, Holly Brooks (second by a toe at the Birkie) was the top finisher followed by Dasha Gaiazova and Madeleine Williams. Other top results: Matt Liebsch 4th, Brian Gregg 5th, Chris Cook 14th, Andre Watt 15th, Sean Crooks 18th, Bryan Cook 23rd; Jessie Diggins 12th, Maria Stuber 17th, Caitlin Compton 18th, Johanna Winters 21st.
Related:
Results: Freestyle
Swix Press Release West Yellowstone Freestyle

Kuusamo World Cup Preview
November 26, 2009
Ahvo Taipale of Finn Sisu is back in the home country, visiting daugther Ritva and taking in the Kuusamo World Cup in Finland this weekend. They report on Thursday: Pictures from today's pre-competition activities from Aki Karvonen and the Vauhti Wax crew as well as a few pictures of the Ruka tunturi (and all the snow!). Conditions here are great (though a bit windy for ski jumping -- Thursday's qualification round has been rescheduled).
Related:
Photoset from Ahvo Taipale: Ruka tunturi prep - 5 photos

SuperTour: West Yellowstone Sprints
November 25, 2009
The SuperTour series kicked off the 2009-2010 Olympic season with an opening 1.6K classic sprint qualifier (only) on Wednesday. Twin Cities native Garrott Kuzzy picked up from last year's performance with the top result. Simi Hamilton, Sun Valley, and Sean Crooks, Thunder Bay, wrapped up the top three. Canadian Dasha Gaiazova posted the fastest women's time with APU's Laura Valaas second and Shayla Swanson, Calgary, third. The races resume on Friday with freestyle events followed by classical on Saturday.
Related:
Results: Classic Sprint Qualifier
Canadians Share Podium with Americans at Opening Day of US Super Tour in Montana

US Ski Team: Freeman Leads US in Relay
November 22, 2009
Day two of the opening weekend of World Cup cross country racing wrapped up in Norway on Sunday with the Kris Freeman leading the U.S. team strong out of the gate with a sixth in his heat of a relay race. The U.S. men finished 19th overall.

US Ski Team: Randall, Freeman Lead U.S. in World Cup Opener
November 21, 2009
The U.S. Cross Country Ski Team kicked off the 2010 Olympic season in Norway Saturday with Kikkan Randall and Kris Freeman leading the way for the U.S., finishing 21st and 22nd, respectively.

USSA: Masters SuperTour Announced
November 20, 2009
The USSA announces the launch of the USSA Masters SuperTour to occur in conjunction with existing USSA SuperTour races around the nation this season.
Related:
USSA Level 100 Technique Clinic at West Yellowstone

US Ski Team: Randall Just Shy of Podium in Norway
November 15, 2009
The U.S. Cross Country Team wrapped up three days of pre World Cup racing Sunday with even more unexpected success as World Championship silver medalist Kikkan Randall took fourth and Kris Freeman fifth in the women's 5K and men's 10K classic FIS races in Norway.

US Ski Team: Freeman Shines in Norway
November 14, 2009
The U.S. Cross Country Ski Team is a leg up on the competition scene after competing in two days of FIS races in Norway where Kikkan Randall, Kris Freeman, Liz Stephen and Morgan Arritola have all had great early season results. Freeman finished fifth in the 15K freestyle race Saturday.

Minnesota State CX Championships Coverage
November 14, 2009
The Minnesota cyclocross scene celebrates the end of another wildly popular season with the State championships this weekend at Bassett Creek in Robbinsdale. The mens 1/2/3 race was once again an exciting and hard fought battle. Doug Swanson, Dewey Dickey, Pat Lemieux (last year's champ), Brian Eppens (from Iowa), and Jack Hinkens (Hopkins senior) ran away with the race early and rode as a tight group for much of the race. Near the end, Lemeiux was shed. Then on the final sidewalk stretch, Swanson put the hammer down dropping Dickey and setting up the final trio. With Swanson leading over the last barrier and Eppen on his heels, youngster Jack Hinkens tried his signature bunnyhop in a gamble to take victory -- the move failed, with Hinkens crashing. Swanson solo'd home but Hinkens recovered enough to catch Eppen at the sand pits and outsprinted him for second place. Jenna Rinehart had a close battle with Kim Eppen (Iowa) throughout the womens 1/2/3 race but managed to ride the final sandpit to take the womens victory.
Related:
Photoset: Mens 3 - 181 photos, Womens 1/2/3 - 89 photos, Mens 1/2/3 - 277 photos
Photoset from Jay Richards: CX4/W4 - 99 photos, Juniors - 88 photos, Mens 45+/55+ - 118 photos
Results: State CX Championships