Highlights
Birkie Membership Drive and Early Registration Underway
April 2, 2020Support the American Birkebeiner and start your 2021 Birkie training by taking out a American Birkebeiner membership! As an added bonus, your membership gives you early access to race registration and a custom bib.
Birkie: Stronger Together
March 21, 2020The Birkie Team has been gathering insightful and inspiring resources to help keep us moving and staying positive during this time of social distancing. Check out their 'Stronger Together' page for activities, articles, podcasts, videos, and workouts you can do from home.
Borah Teamwear Official Jersey Supplier for Intelligentsia Cup
March 16, 2020Borah Teamwear announces they will supply the Chicago based cycling race series Intelligentsia Cup with the coveted custom winner’s jerseys for the next three years. The Intelligentsia Cup is the largest attened race series in the country.
MNJRC Kickoff Meeting Friday April 3rd
March 15, 2020Minnesota Junior Cycling (MNJRC) will hold their annual kickoff meeting on Friday, April 3rd, at the Best Western Plus Capitol Ridge in St. Paul. MNJRC welcomes all junior cyclists, including those racing the Minnesota high school MTB series.
Biathlon: US Biathlon National Championships Canceled
March 14, 2020The 2020 US Biathlon National Championships and the North American Championships, planned to be held in West Yellowstone, Montana, March 27-29, are officially canceled due to the escalating COVID-19 pandemic.
Fastenal Parallel 45 Festival and Minneapolis World Cup Cancelled Due to Coronavirus Concerns
March 12, 2020The growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak has forced the cancellation of the Parallel 45 Festival, including the Minneapolis World Cup at Theodore Wirth!
World Cup Recap: Norway, North America
March 10, 2020Off the plane from Europe, Rex Wax tech Chris Hecker reports on last week's World Cup races in Norway and previews the exciting North American remaining races.
Fat Bike Birkie Results
March 7, 2020Birkie organizers report: It was a bright bluebird sky and sunshine-filled day at the 2020 Fat Bike Birkie, presented by Freewheel Bike, for the world’s largest on-snow fat bike race, held at the American Birkebeiner Trailhead near Cable, Wisconsin. Nearly 1100 riders competed with riders hailing from 17 states and 3 countries. Big Fat 47K champion in the men’s category was Corey Stelljes with Chris Stevens second and Peter Olejniczak third. Women’s 47K Big Fat 2020 winner was Leia Schneeberger with Sonia Pond second and Heather Stelljes third.
Great Bear Chase Results
March 7, 2020A huge field of more than 800 skiers hit the Swedetown trails on Saturday for the Great Bear Chase events. Team Gregg ruled the day in the 50K skiathlon as Brian and Caitlin took the mens and womens titles. Zach Nelson and Anna Engel skated to 50K freestyle victories, Eric Patterson and Elspeth Ronnander the 50K classic crowns. Minnesota high school stars Charlie Grabow and Ethan Erickson battled it in the 25K freestyle, Grabow winning by less than two seconds! Inga Wing, in the under 17 category, topped the women's 25K field. The 25K classic titles went to Cedric Keller and Jane Straka.
Biathlon: Cervenka Garners First Career Medal at IBU Junior Cup
March 7, 2020Vaclav Cervenka (Grand Rapids, MN) was one of only six athletes in the field of 93 to shoot clean, helping him earn the silver medal in the men's 10-kilometer sprint on Saturday at the IBU Junior Cup in Arber, Germany. It marked the first IBU medal of Cervenka's career.
Slush Rush Results
March 7, 2020Jason Dalebroux reports: The 2020 Hoigaard's/Breadsmith was held Saturday morning on the Hyland manmade snow loop, under sunny skies, warming temps, and fast snow. A quick group of three broke away early, with JoJo Baldus taking the Masters men's 9K win over Ben Creagh and Erik Hendrickson. Other winners included Abigail Turman in the Masters women's division, as Declan Rodefeld and Jackie Larsen took victories in the shorter 4.5K Juniors race.
World Cup: Holmenkollen World Cup Races Go Spectator Empty
March 5, 2020Due to the coronavirus outbreak in Europe, organizers at this weekend's World Cup races in Holmenkollen, Norway, have decided to close the event to spectators.
Still a Chance for Snow Ball in Hell
March 4, 2020Come be part of the Parallel 45 celebration, there are still openings for ski cross and bike cross events called Snowball In Hell! The Minnesota Vikings are sponsoring the event which will feature Vikings decor including a 20 foot tall Viking and cheerleaders on the downhill course. Plus there is great swag for contestants, with the winner receiving a genuine Vikings helmet!
World Cup Recap: Lahti, Norway
March 3, 2020Chris Hecker of Rex Wax reports in from the World Cup, this week recapping the action from Lahti, Finland, and looking ahead to racing action this week in Norway.
Vasaloppet USA Winners Compete at Swedish Vasaloppet
March 2, 2020A number of Vasaloppet winners competed at the Swedish Vasaloppet last weekend, including Caitlin Gregg and Felicia Gesior, as well as top skiers like Brian Gregg and Kikkan Randall.
Loppet Winter Triathlon Results
March 1, 2020A fairly fast ski course gave way to softer conditions as temperatures quickly rose into the 40s for the Loppet Foundations Winter Triathlon race at Theodore Wirth on Sunday. Joel LaFrance posted the top ski and fat bike times to hold off a late challenge from Jacob Keehan and take the victory, repeating their finishing places from last year. Jan Guenther also repeated as the women's champion, logging the 8th fastest ski time (overall) in the process.
Pepsi Challenge Results
February 29, 2020More than 300 skiers turned out Saturday for the Pepsi Challenge races at Giants Ridge. In the 50K freestyle race, Bryan Cook bested Nick Matelich for the victory by just over 30 seconds with Samuel Olson third. Hannah Olson cruised to nearly a 10 minute margin over Elaine Nelson in winning the women's division, Bethann Chamberlain taking third. Andrew Tilman strided away with the men's 50K classic title, Brandy Stewart led the spare women's group. The biggest field on the day was for the 25K freestyle race which came down to an exciting finish between Forest Lake high school stars Ethan and Noah Erickson vs master champ Andy Schakel, with Ethan taking the sprint, Schakel second and Noah third. Maja Peterson was the women's champion with Rana Kraftson second and Sara Kylander-Johnson third. 25K classic titles went to Logan Jenson and Courtney Gregory.
Trail Kids Superski Age Gap Classic Relay Coverage
February 28, 2020Kim Rudd reports: TRAIL KIDS Superski Age Gap Classic Relay race had close to two hundred youth and parents out for the event Thursday night! Guest World Cup racer and 2019 Birkie winner Alayna Sonnesyn paired up with one of the TRAIL KIDS for the relay event along with speaking after the race about her recent World Cup races! Some lucky TRAIL KIDS won some of her World Cup race bibs as door prizes! Thank you Gear West for sponsoring the event with incredible Bjorn Daehlie prizes!
NorthStar Development Cycling Programs
February 26, 2020NorthStar Development is excited to announce its Junior Road Cycling Program for 2020 and are welcoming new and returning riders. Represented locally, regionally, and nationally, NorthStar Development delivers coaching, training, and racing for all abilities age 9-23.
Great Bear Chase Countdown
February 25, 2020The Great Bear Chase events in Calumet, MI, are less than two weeks away! Trails are in top condition and there are seven races options to choose from.
World Cup Report: Ski Tour Stages 4-6
February 25, 2020Chris Hecker of Rex Wax reports on the final stages of the Ski Tour, including some epic change ups on the final day of racing.
Minnesota Canoe Association Annual Meeting Monday
February 23, 2020The Minnesota Canoe Association's Annual Meeting is this coming Monday evening, Feb 24th. Bob Vollhaber and Kendra Liebel will be giving an exclusive presentation about their recent Border Route adventure where they archived a fastest known time.
American Birkebeiner Coverage
February 22, 2020Beautiful conditions Saturday for the giant American Birkebeiner races from Cable to Hayward. The men's race came down to a pack of eight, with six hitting Main Street for a sprint to the finish. Norway's World Cup veteran Niklas Dyrhaug took the victory just ahead of Minnesota native Ian Torchia with Robin Duvillard, France, third, and Adam Martin, Norwegian Anders Nostdahl Gloersen and Erik Bjornsen round out the top six. Jessica Yeaton, Australia, broke away from the field by Hwy OO and finished 41 seconds ahead of Finnish Olympian Riitta-Liisa Roponen to take the win. Erika Flowers was third, and the top American finisher. Classic titles were won decisively by Peter Holmes and Wisconsin native Nichole Bathe. Results linked in, along with photos from the midway point for the early waves.
Kortelopet Coverage
February 21, 2020A beautiful winter day for the Kortelopet races as the field raced out of the new Korte start at Hwy OO and finished in downtown Hayward. Veteran Murray Carter planned his final push perfectly, outsprinting the younger pack of four and fending off a late charge by Kieran Mullen to take the win, with Noah Straka taking third, as Zach Nemeth and Sam Stertz all finished within five seconds. Wisconsin Mia Case cruised to a relatively easy victory for the women, more than two minutes ahead of Ingrid Halverson, with Nina Chosy third. Classic titles went to Jacob Rochell-Share and Johanna Craig. Results linked in, along with eight photosets from the races.
Birkie Week Thursday Events Coverage
February 20, 2020Thursday brings a whole ramping up of events for the big Birkie week festival as Barkiebirkie (skijor), Barnebirkie (youth), Junior Birkie, and Giant Ski events all take place in downtown Hayward, culminating Thursday evening with the Birkie Bash featuring Kikkan Randall.
Biathlon: Leif Nordgren Takes Career Best 8th Place at World Championships
February 19, 2020Minnesota native Leif Nordgren shot his way to a career-best finish in the men's 20-kilometer individual on Wednesday at the IBU World Championships in Antholz, Italy. The two-time Olympian was the only competitor in the 104-man field to shoot a perfect 20-for-20 on the range, propelling him to a career-best eighth place. Nordgren's previous best was a 16th-place finish in the same event at last year's world championships.
World Cup Report: Ski Tour Stages 1-3
February 19, 2020The FIS Ski Tour is underway and World Cup wax tech Chris Hecker of Rex brings us a recap on the first three stages, plus notes on the upcoming events this week.
Frankowski: Minnesota World Cup (aka FIS Sprint Tour) Qualification
February 17, 2020Rosie Frankowski follows up her World Cup article with details on what it takes to qualify for the Minnesota World Cup in March. Read all the details, and discover the different pathways athletes might be taking.
Minnesota Finlandia Coverage
February 15, 2020Beautiful weather Saturday for the annual Minnesota Finlandia events in Bemidji. Craig Cardinal collected another rose-mailed axe in taking the premiere 50K title with Jenna Ruzich the women's champion. Soren Dybing pulled ahead for the 25K freestyle victory with Susanne Hill the top female. Classic 25K titles went to Kerrie Berg and Nicholas Youso. And the skiathlon winners were Logan Jenson and Anna Dehler. Results posted, plus some photos from Monte Draper.
Biathlon: Susan Dunklee Takes Silver at World Championships
February 14, 2020American Susan Dunklee earned a surprising silver medal Friday at the World Biathlon Championships in the 7.5K sprint event. Dunklee pulled off a very similar peak with a second place in the 2017 Worlds.
Birkie Reveals Handcrafted Champion Awards
February 12, 2020The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) has revealed the 2020 overall champion awards which will be awarded to the top three male and female winners in the Slumberland American Birkebeiner (male/female, skate/classic), the Kortelopet (male/female, skate/classic) and Prince Haakon (top three overall winners) during podium ceremonies next week.
World Cup Report: Falun Recap, Ski Tour Preview
February 11, 2020Rex World Cup Wax Tech Chris Hecker recaps last weekend's racing action in a very warm and slushy Falun, Sweden, and then provides a brief preview of the new Ski Tour series which will race across Sweden and Norway over the next week.
Biathlon: World Championship Teams Announced
February 11, 2020The U.S. Biathlon International Competition Committee has announced the rosters for the upcoming IBU Biathlon World Championships in Antholz-Anterselva, Italy, Feb. 13-23, as well as the teams competing at the IBU Open European Championships in Otepaeae, Estonia, Feb. 26-March 1. From the Midwest, Leif Nordgren, Jake Brown and Paul Schommer along with Deedra Irwin as alternate will be headed to the World Championships. Luke Brown and Raleigh Goessling have been selected for the Open European Championships.
US Nordic Cross World Championship Set for March 21st
February 10, 2020Stay Skinny, Get Sendy: The third annual US Nordic Cross World Championship race is set for March 21st at Spirit Mountain in Duluth, MN. The course will be mostly downhill with obstacles (including big jump) as well as a short but steep climb. Plus, bring those rocks skis for the big air competition.
Vasaloppet USA Coverage
February 8, 2020A big turnout on Main Street Mora for the annual Vasaloppet USA races on Saturday. While utilizing many common trail segments, the major races all had their own variations to build 50K freestyle, 44K classic and 34K freestyle distances. Matt Liebsch, Brian Gregg and Garrett Beckrich broke up the main 50K lead pack on the second lap, with Liebsch pulling away for yet another Vasaloppet title. Gregg edged out Beckrich in a sprint finish for second. Caitlin Gregg won the women's division, over four minutes ahead of second place's Claire Trujillo with Jan Guenther third. Nathan Porath and Paul Olson, both previous champions of the Dala race, made it a two-man race early on and took it down to the Main Street finish with Porath besting Olson for the 34K victory. Nicholas Youso collected third. The women's 34K race was a tightly contested affair as the top five all came in one pack for the downtown finish. Margaret Nelson collected the title with Mary Mckelvey second, Angie Robinson third as Sara Kylander-Johnson and Mindy Benton completed the group finish. The men's 44K classic was another tense battle as the lead pack of four double-poled in a finishing frenzy, Karl Holub taking the top time followed by Andrew Tilman, Thomas Kenderick, and David Chamberlain. Classic queen was once again Josie Nelson, with Elspeth Ronnander second, Kerrie Berg third. Full results linked in and photosets posted.
Pre-Birkie Results
February 8, 2020Nearly 700 skiers turned out Saturday for the annual Pre-Birkie races, based out of Hwy OO trailhead on the Birkie trail. Joel LaFrance took the men's 42K freestyle with Zach Varty and Nick Ross rounding out the podium. Hannah Olson was the women's marathon freestyle champion, followed by Patti Harvieux and Elaine Nelson. 42K classic titles went to Evan Wetzel and Bonnie Weiskopf. The 26K freestyle races were won by Stephen Wilbers and Annalisa Peterson, classic crowns for Gregory Shuster and Brandy Stewart.
Vasaloppet Race Course Shaping Up
February 5, 2020Organizers report they've been able to utilize a lot of natural snow to make a very large course for the races this weekend. The big Vasa race will be two laps for 50K total, the Dala is a two laps for 34K, and the Classic is two laps for 44K total.
Frankowski: World Cup Starts 101
February 3, 2020Rosie Frankowski provides a full breakdown on the process to get a World Cup start, and what it takes to actually make it to the start line.
City of Lakes Loppet Freestyle Coverage
February 2, 2020Surviving an overnight warmup, the City of Lakes Loppet was able to pull off the freestyle races running from Lake Bde Maka Ska all the way up to the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Sunday morning. Once again in the men's marathon race it came down to a battle between Brian Gregg and Matt Liebsch, this time going right to the wire and a tremendous crash finish. Liebsch was awarded the victory with Alex Reich third. Caitlin Gregg sailed away with the women's marathon title, Vivian Hett taking second with Bonnie Weiskopf third. Kristofer Johnson and Susanne Hill won the 20K titles. Results linked in, along with photos from Margaret Adelsman.
City of Lakes Loppet Classic Coverage
February 1, 2020Near perfect conditions Saturday morning for the City of Lakes Loppet classic races as skiers streamed from the Minneapolis chain of lakes up to a finish at the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth. As usual, Brian Gregg and Matt Liebsch quickly made it a two-person race for the 37K marathon, with Gregg pulling ahead at the end of the victory. Taking third was David Joda. In the women's race, Caitlin Gregg took a commanding lead going on to win by four minutes over Felicia Gesior with Vivian Hett third. In the 20K race, John Rock and Maria Hauer were champions. Results linked in and photos from Margaret Adelsman posted.
Biathlon: Germain 'Super Good' in Winning Youth Worlds Bronze
January 31, 2020The four-year medal drought for the U.S. team at the IBU Youth/Junior World Championships is over after Maxime Germain (Anchorage, AK) captured the bronze medal in Friday's men's 7.5-kilometer sprint in Lenzerheide, Switzerland. Germain finished just 11 seconds out of first. Grand Rapids native Sam Stertz notched a top 25 performance.
World Cup Report: Oberstdorf Recap, Falun Preview
January 29, 2020Rex Wax Tech Chris Hecker posts his weekly World Cup report, recapping the racing in Germany last weekend and previewing the events in Sweden next weekend.
Epic Conditions Expected for Sleeping Giant Loppet
January 28, 2020Organizers report excellent conditions at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park has they head into the final month before big races and are expecting one of their largest fields ever. Next price hike comes Feb 1st, so register by Friday night!
Great Bear Chase Celebrates 40 Years
January 27, 2020The Great Bear Chase will be celebrating its 40th anniversary with their events Saturday, March 7th. Organizers are encouraging skiers to register now, before the Feb 1st price hike and start making those lodging plans.
US Ski Team: Diggins Third, Leads Four Americans in Top 16 at Classic Sprint
January 26, 2020Jessie Diggins snagged her second classic sprint podium of the season to lead four U.S. Ski Team athletes into the top 16 in Oberstdorf, Germany, Sunday. Sophie Caldwell was fourth, Sadie Maubet Bjornsen was ninth and Rosie Brennan was 16th.
Marine O'Brien Coverage
January 26, 2020Another big day of racing for the annual Marine O'Brien races Sunday at William O'Brien State Park. After the wooden ski competitors cut loose on the trails, the 12.5K and 25K classic races strode out, with the freestyle division taking off 30 minutes later. Craig Cardinal quickly established a commanding lead in the men's 25K classic, going on to win by over three minutes. Stillwater's own Nora Gilbertson strided to the women's title. Jakob Ellingston pulled away from Zach Handler in the final kilometer to take the 25K freestyle race with Marybeth Tuttle topping the women's division. In the one lap 12.5K races, Everett Meyers and Stella Powell were classic champions, while freestyle titles went to Ryan Houseman and Louisa Ward. Full results linked in, along with photosets from the classic and freestyle races.
US Ski Team: Mixed Results For Cross Country World Champs Preview
January 25, 2020And up and down day for the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team as the FIS Cross Country World Cup continued with a skiathlon race in Oberstdorf, Germany, Saturday. Rosie Brennan led the team with a 17th place finish, Jessie Diggins was 22nd. Midwest skiers Alayna Sonnesyn was 51st, Ian Torchia DNF'd.
Noquemanon Results
January 25, 2020A field of more than 900 skiers turned out Saturday for the Noquemanon races in Marquette. Matt Liebsch took the men's 50K classic title by more than three minutes over Chris Pappathopoulos with Sam Holmes third. Vivian Hett won the women's division, Ellen Wiitala second and Anna Mooi third. The 50K freestyle race came down to three way fight for the victory with Zachary Nelson besting Derek Rasmussen by just over one second with Zach Varty third by seven seconds. Stacey Marion collected the women's 50K skate title, Kaitlyn Patterson second and Mari Hardel third. In the 24K events, Jordan Woods and Hanna Torvi collected the classic titles, Tryg Solberg and Lindsey Dehlin the freestyle victories.
Frankowski: Sickness and Racing
January 22, 2020Rosie Frankowski shares her experiences dealing with sickness and the decision to race, including at US Nationals earlier this month. Plus she offers some of her own tips on staying healthy.
World Cup Report: Nove Mesto Recap, Oberstdorf Preview
January 22, 2020Chris Hecker, Rex World Cup wax tech, reports on last weekend's racing in Nove Mesto, Czech Republic, including a note on the plethora of yellow cards handed out. And a look ahead to this week's racing action in Obertsdorf, Germany.
Minnesota World Cup: Price Increase Coming
January 19, 2020The excitement over the Minnesota World Cup, coming March 17th to the Trailhead at Theodore Wirth continues to grow! If you haven't purchased spectating tickets yet, you should get on it this week -- the next price hike is on Tuesday, Jan 28th, so you'll need to grab your tickets before then.
US Ski Team: Three Americans in Top 20 at Nove Mesto
January 19, 2020Jessie Diggins once again lead the way for the US Ski Team in Sunday’s FIS Cross Country World Cup 10k classic pursuit in Nove Mesto, Czech Republic, finishing in 10th. Rosie Brennan was 13th and Sadie Maubet Bjornsen was 20th. Midwesterners Alayna Sonnesyn was 51st, Ian Torchia 64th.
US Ski Team: Diggins Fourth at Nove Mesto Freestyle, leads Four U.S. Athletes Into Top 30
January 18, 2020Racing through deep, sugary snow in her first race since finishing the Tour de Ski earlier this month, Jessie Diggins led four US Ski Team athletes into the top 30, finishing fourth in Saturday’s 10k FIS Cross Country World Cup freestyle in Nove Mesto, Czech Republic. Alayna Sonnesyn notched 46th in her first overseas World Cup, Ian Torchia was 67th.
Seeley Hills Classic Results
January 18, 2020Over 350 skiers successfully navigated to the Birkie Trailhead for the Seeley Hills Classic races Saturday morning. Brian Gregg and Matt Liebsch took the 43K race right down to the finish with Gregg besting Liebsch by a half second. John Bauer was third. Caitlin Gregg put on a showcase performance to take the women's division as well as posting 11th overall! Vivian Hett was second, Elaine Nelson third. In the 23K races, Alex Reich and Michelle Flanagan-Haag were the victors.
World Cup Report: Dresden Recap, Nove Mesto Preview
January 15, 2020A slushy weekend of World Cup racing in Dresden, Germany, highlight Rex Wax tech Chris Hecker's recap of the World Cup. Plus a look ahead to this weekend in the Czech Republic, and hopefully starts of two Midwest rising stars, Alayna Sonnesyn and Ian Torchia.
Three Rivers Rennet Coverage
January 11, 2020A crisp Saturday morning as temperatures struggled to creep above zero for the Three Rivers Rennet races at Hyland Lake. For the first time in their history, the Rennet was able to use the full course, taking in sections of natural snow on the Lake Trail while still utilizing much of the snowmaking loop for the 26K distance events. A tough group of four broke away early as Kyle Bratrud, Brian Gregg, Matt Liebsch and Joel LaFrance pushed the gas pedal hard. By the end of the second lap, LaFrance was off the back, with Gregg soon to follow. The finish came down to a sprint dual between Bratrud and Liebsch with the cagey veteran Liebsch scoring the inside of the curve to just nip Bratrud at the line. Caitlin Gregg cruised to the women's 26K title. Andrew Tilman and Erik Hoeg repeated their classic distance battle of 2019, Tilman coming out on top again but in a very close finish. Margie Nelson (and Tilman's sister) collected the women's 26K classic crown. In the 13K races, Tryg Solberg and Carollyn Bramante won the freestyle race, Karl Holub and Brandy Stewart the classic. Full results linked in, along with photos from the 26K races.
Sisu Ski Fest Results
January 11, 2020Well over 600 skiers turned out Saturday for the Sisu Ski Fest races in Ironwood! In the premiere 30K freestyle race, Adam Swank edged out Olympian John Bauer for the victory by just under 3 seconds. Kristen Monahan took the women's title. The 30K classic victories were earned by Evan Wetzel and Delaney FitzPatrick. Devor Byers and Susanne Hill won the 15K skate races, with Scott Shield and Nina Chosy the classic 15K winners.
Biathlon: Irwin 6th in Slovakia IBU Cup
January 10, 2020U.S. athletes continued their run of success at this season's IBU Cup events on Friday as Deedra Irwin (Pulaski, Wis.) raced to a sixth-place finish in the women's 12.5-kilometer short individual race at Brezno-Osrblie, Slovakia.
US Nationals Recap: Days 3 and 4
January 8, 2020Luke Brown recaps the last two events of US Nationals, the classic mass start and sprint races, with quotes from a number of competitors, highlights on the top juniors, and who will be racing later this winter on the World Cup!
World Cup Report: Tour de Ski Wrap up, Dresden Sprints
January 7, 2020World Cup tech wax Chris Hecker of Rex Wax provides a recap of the final stages of the Tour de Ski, as well as a look ahead to a pair of weekend sprint races in Dresden, Germany.
Tour de Ski: Three Americans in Top 15 Overall at Tour de Ski
January 5, 2020The U.S. Cross Country Ski Team wrapped up the 14th Tour de Ski Sunday with three athletes in the top 15 overall, including Sadie Maubet Bjornsen with a career-best seventh, Jessie Diggins in ninth, and Rosie Brennan a career-best 15th. Russian Alexander Bolshunov and Therese Johaug, Norway, won the overall titles.
Pre-Loppet Results
January 5, 2020Another strong field for the Pre-Loppet race at Theodore Wirth on Sunday morning. Joel LaFrance collected the victory with Chris Hecker pulling out second in a sprint with Andy Schakel. Kim Rudd won the women's title, Jordyn Ross second and Margie Nelson third.
First Chance Results
January 4, 2020Vasaloppet's First Chance races on Saturday morning had a big turnout with nearly 100 skiers participating in the 21K race and another 25 in the 5K. Andrew Brown skied away from the field to win the 21K freestyle event by over 1:30 with Andy Schakel second and Cory Ellertson third. Aly Welch collected the women's 21K title with Jenna Ruzich second, Rebecca Kolstad third. In the 5K race, Thomas Hedman and Cailyn Smith were the champions.
Tour de Ski: Diggins, Maubet Bjornsen 3-4 in Stage 6 Classic Sprint
January 4, 2020Jessie Diggins and Sadie Maubet Bjornsen finished 3-4 in Stage 6 classic sprint at the 14th Tour de Ski in Val di Fiemme, Italy, Saturday. The podium result was Jessie’s second career World Cup classic sprint podium, and 25th overall individual career World Cup podium.
US Nationals Recap: Days 1 and 2
January 4, 2020With the first two days of racing in the books, Luke Brown provides a recap of the early US Nationals racing with some course insights and comments from Midwest skiers.
Tour de Ski: Solid Seventh For Maubet Bjornsen in Stage 5
January 3, 2020Through five stages of the 14th Tour de Ski, the fatigue is starting to pile on. But it's at this point of the race where athletes see the light at the end of the pain cave. Sadie Maubet Bjornsen dug deep Friday, finishing seventh, just 17 seconds off of the winning time of Norway’s Astrid Jacobsen in the women’s 10k classic mass start in Val di Fiemme, Italy. Jessie Diggins was 17th.
Birkie Trail Run Moves to New Venue, USATF Half Marathon Championship
January 2, 2020The 2020 Birkie Trail Run Festival will be held entirely at the American Birkebeiner Trailhead, Cable, WI. In addition, organizers have announced that the Birkie Trail Run half marathon has once again been named the USA Track and Field (USATF) Half Marathon Trail Championship. Registration is now open!
Tour de Ski: Maubet Bjornsen 12th in Stage 4 Pursuit
January 1, 2020Sadie Maubet Bjornsen was the top finisher for the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team in stage 4 of the 14th Tour De Ski in Toblach, Italy, Wednesday. Jessie Diggins was 14th, followed by Rosie Brennan in 21st, Sophie Caldwell in 27th and Katharine Ogden in 38th. In the 15k men’s classic pursuit, David Norris was the top American in 44th, followed by Kevin Bolger in 61st and Logan Haneman finishing 71st.
Biathlon: Youth/Junior Worlds Team Named
January 1, 2020U.S. Biathlon has announced the 2020 Youth (U19) and Junior (U21) Biathlon World Championship Teams, which will compete at the IBU Youth/Junior World Championships taking place in Lenzerheide, Switzerland, Jan. 26-Feb. 2. Earning their way onto the elite squad are a bunch of Minnesotans: Emma Stertz (Grand Rapids), Kaisa Bosek (Alexandria), Garrett Beckrich (Grand Rapids), Vaclav Cervenka (Grand Rapids), and Sam Stertz (Grand Rapids).
Michigan Tech Hosts U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships
January 1, 2020Michigan Tech Univ has released a preview of the US Nationals Cross-Country Ski Championships being held Jan 2-7 on the Tech trails in Houghton.
Tour de Ski: Diggins Leads U.S. Cross Country Team in Stage 3
December 31, 2019Jessie Diggins once again led the way for the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team in stage 3 of the Tour De Ski Tuesday in Toblach, Italy, pacing three American's into the top nine.
World Cup Report: Tour de Ski Recap Stages 1, 2
December 29, 2019The first two stages of the Tour de Ski are already in the books and the US Ski Team has three skiers in the top 25. Rex Wax tech Chris Hecker as the full recap on the early stages. Racing action continues on Tuesday in Toblach, Italy, with another pair of freestyle distance races.
Tour de Ski: Brennan Leads Three Americans Into Top 30 in Opening Stage
December 28, 2019Rosie Brennan finished 20th to lead three U.S. Cross Country Ski Team athletes into the top 30 in Saturday’s opening stage of the 14th Tour de Ski in Lenzerheide, Switzerland. Jessie Diggins out-sprinted teammate Sadie Maubet Bjornsen for 29th in Saturday’s mass start 10k freestyle. In the men’s 15k mass start, David Norris was the top American finisher in 58th. Kevin Bolger was 64th and Logan Hanneman 69th.
World Cup Report: Planica Recap, Tour de Ski Preview
December 25, 2019The World Cup continues on, racing last weekend in a very wet Slovenia and then comes the huge Tour de Ski event: seven races over just nine days, including the infamous hill climb finale! Rex Wax technician Chris Hecker has the full Plancia recap and Tour de Ski preview.
Ski the Re-Mastered in Idaho
December 22, 2019The McCall Re-Mastered is one of the more popular races out West, offering 15K, 30K and 45K races held at Ponderosa State Park in McCall, Idaho. The location hosted the 2008 World Masters and the events use much the same courses. Make your plans now, the race is Saturday, Jan 18th.
US Ski Team: Snowy Team Sprints Sunday in Plancia
December 22, 2019After dealing with spring like weather all week, competitors in the World Cup freestyle team sprint races in Plancia, Slovenia Sunday had to overcome a sudden return of winter as heavy snow made for very difficult conditions. The women's pairing of Sophie Caldwell and Julia Kern finished fifth with the men's combination of Kevin Bolger and Logan Hanneman taking seventh.
US Ski Team: Kern Earns First Career World Cup Podium Result
December 21, 2019Julia Kern overcame challenging snow conditions, rain, and lightning delays to claim her first career World Cup Podium, finishing third Saturday in the World Cup freestyle sprints at Planica, Slovenia. Sophie Caldwell was fourth. On the men's side, Simi Hamilton led three Americans into the heats, finishing 12th, Kevin Bolger was 18th and Logan Hanneman was 25th.
Skinnyski Santa Solstice Ski Coverage
December 21, 2019Perfect weather of sunshine and temps in the low 20s along with world-class course conditions were on tap Saturday morning for the Skinny Santa Solstice Ski races at Woodland trails in Elk River. The Pioneer Midwest squad of Matt Liebsch, Andy Brown and Joel LaFrance broke away early and never looked back, with Liebsch cruising in the for the victory in the 20K race. Kim Rudd topped the women's 20K field. Results posted along with photos from the 20K.
Biathlon: Silver Day For Schommer at IBU Cup
December 20, 2019Wisconsin native Paul Schommer notched U.S. Biathlon's second IBU Cup podium of the season on Friday during the men's 10-kilometer sprint race in Obertilliach, Austria. Schommer went a perfect 10-for-10 on the range to cross the line 19.5 seconds behind winner Aleksander Fjeld Andersen of Norway, who also shot clean.
World Cup Report: Davos Recap, Panica Preview
December 18, 2019Another exciting weekend of World Cup racing with two podiums for the US women, plus the sun made an appearance in Davos! Chris Hecker of Rex Wax has a full recap along with a preview of an all-sprint weekend coming up in Slovenia.
SuperTour Sun Valley: Torchia Victory and Top Tens
December 16, 2019The SuperTour series raced in Sun Valley, Idaho, over the weekend, and once again, Midwest skiers made their way into the top ten. In Saturday's classic sprints, Ben Saxton and Alayna Sonnesyn both advanced to the finals, both finishing 6th. In Sunday's 15K freestyle race, Ian Torchia took the victory by nearly 30 seconds with Adam Martin narrowly missing the podium in 4th. Caitlin Gregg scored a 4th place finish in the women's 10K, with Alayna Sonnesyn 8th.
US Ski Team: Diggins Leads Five U.S. Women into Top 25 at Davos
December 15, 2019Jessie Diggins kept the podium streak alive for the US Ski Team, finishing third and leading five American women in the top 25 in the 10k individual freestyle event in Davos, Switzerland, Sunday. Minnesota native Rosie Frankowski scored World Cup points with a 23rd place finish. And Kyle Bratrud led for the US men, taking 38th.
US Ski Team: Caldwell Third, Hamilton Sixth in Davos Sprint
December 14, 2019Sophie Caldwell landed another podium performance for the US, finishing third in the World Cup freestyle sprints in Davos, Switzerland, Saturday. On the men's side, Simi Hamilton, who was in the podium hunt in the finals, posted the best result of the season in sixth. Jessie Diggins was bumped out in a tough quarterfinal, as was Kevin Bolger.
Hoigaards Relays Coverage
December 14, 2019Hoigaards Relays held their annual event on the trails at Elm Creek on Saturday morning. With many top skiers racing in Duluth, and a bounty of snow offering lots of natural skiing, turnout was a little lower than previous seasons. Still, the racing action was exciting across the board. The duo of Alex Reich and David Joda took the men's citizen field with Maria Schilling and Patti Bohaty the top female team, and Dennis Curran and Jenny Beckman taking the mixed title. Junior boys was a tight battle between Champlain Park and Mpls Southwest with the trio of Miguel Frisco, Jack Wenz and Owen Lindseth moving ahead for the victory. Irondale's duo of Siri Stolen and Elizabeth VanLoon won the girls title. Results and photos up now.
Frankowski: Behind the Scenes of the World Cup
December 11, 2019Minnesota native Rosie Frankowski checks in while racing on the World Cup this month to give us a behind the scenes look at how the series rolls through Europe from week to week. Read about Christmas celebrations in Lillehammer, visiting Santa's homeland, and favorite desserts of some World Cup stars!