Archives 2022-2023
Lumi Experiences: Holmenkollen Ski Festival, The Greatest Show on Snow
March 16, 2023History was made last weekend when the first-ever World Cup women's 50K race was held at the Holmenkollen venue in Oslo, Norway, and Lumi Experiences was there to watch it happen. Hear firsthand impressions of the event from Lumi Experiences founder Garret Kuzzy in their latest blog post, plus save $300 when you reserve a spot on any 2024 trip before March 31st.
Lumi Experiences: Visit the Birkie Expo Booth and Sign Up to Win
February 19, 2023If you're looking to learn more about what Lumi Experiences has planned for the upcoming year, stop by their booth at the Birkie Expo this Thursday or Friday to talk with some special guests about some of their recent trips. And even if you can't make it, be sure to sign up online for a chance to win $1000 off any 2024 trip.
Ski for Snow this Saturday at Theodore Wirth Park
February 8, 2023Organized by the captains of the Minnetonka High School Nordic Team, the Ski for Snow is being held this coming Saturday at Theodore Wirth. The event is being put on as a fundraiser for Protector Our Winters and seeks to raise awareness about the treat climate change poses to our sport. While skiing is encouraged, there will also be live music, hot chocolate, yard games, and plenty of items being raffled off.
Volunteers Sought for Shriners Hospital Nordic Ski Day, Feb 4th
January 19, 2023Shriner’s Hospital is hosting a Nordic ski day on February 4th at Hyland and is seeking volunteers to ski with participants. The event is for kids who have worked with Shriner's in the past, many in their limb deficiency group, and volunteers would simply be there to help get them out on the trails and having fun.
Pioneer Midwest: Forgotten Star Wax Clinic, Jan 17th
January 15, 2023If you're interested in either beer or waxing, you're in luck—Pioneer Midwest's clinic this Tuesday will have a bit of both. Held at Forgotten Star Brewing Company in Fridley, MN, the free clinic will go over some of the basics behind ski care and maintenance, with a Q&A, coupons and swag, deals, and a raffle also part of the event.
Gear West: Guide Clinic for Skiers, Jan 22nd
January 15, 2023Learn a new skill and help members of the ski community get out on the trails next Sunday, January 22nd at Gear West. Guides are an important resource that can be scarce for those with vision impairments, so consider finding out more about the ins and outs of becoming one at the informational meeting being held next weekend.
Ski Hut: Thursday Women's Nights Start Dec 22nd
December 19, 2022In a collaboration between Ski Hut, Continental Ski and Bike, COGGS, and DXC, Thursdays are women's nights at the Lester-Amity chalet in Duluth, MN. Ski, bike, and connect during this all women's event at 6pm each week, with educational opportunities also bring offered once a month on a range of topics.
North Star Ski Club Winter Wonderland Trip, Feb 17-20
December 15, 2022The North Star Ski Club will be hosting a winter wonderland trip to the ABR ski trails in Ironwood, MI, Feb 17-20. A great opportunity to meet people with a passion for the outdoors, with new skiers welcome, the club recommends signing up soon as the trip will fill quickly.
Price Hike: Luminary Loppet
December 14, 2022The City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival's nighttime spectacular, the Luminary Loppet on Feb 4th, is nearing a price hike. Less than 1000 tickets at the $30 level were remaining as of Wednesday morning.
Gear West: Weekly Wax Clinics Starting Wednesday, Dec 14th
December 13, 2022Starting this week, Gear West will be holding weekly wax clinics every Wednesday evening through mid-February. Each clinic will begin at 6pm with an introduction of basic tools, waxes, and skills, followed by a deeper dive into the topic of the day. This week's topic is glide basics, which will be complimented next week by kick basics.
CXC: Join us for Ski Across America
December 13, 2022Bringing new meaning to cross-country skiing, CXC is laying out a challenge to ski from coast to coast through Ski Across America, with proceeds from the event supporting CXC’s Nordic Rocks youth grass-roots program. Covered cumulatively through recorded activities, participates can choose from five different routes to tackle individually or as a group, ranging from 45K to 3,200K.
Superior Performance Taking New Clients This Winter
November 27, 2022Superior Performance Endurance Coaching, founded by Jason Kask, is taking on new athletes this winter. Kask has worked with all skill levels, from Olympic athletes to those hoping to finish their first Birkie, developing personalized training plans that work.
NNF: Drive for 25 Fundraising Final Hours
November 25, 2022National Nordic Foundation's annual fundraiser effort, the Drive for 25, is wrapping up today! They need a big final push to capture a $100K matching grant so please contribute today. Check out your favorite Midwest athletes as ambassadors and help support this major funding source for our junior development.
Price Hike: Luminary Loppet
November 23, 2022The City of Lakes Loppet Winter Festival's nighttime spectacular, the Luminary Loppet on Feb 4th, is nearing a price hike. Less than 1000 tickets at the $20 lowest level were remaining as of Wednesday morning.
NNF: Drive for 25 Fundraising Week
November 22, 2022National Nordic Foundation's annual fundraiser effort, the Drive for 25, is running this week! A $100K matching grant is possible, and now a second $100K grant goal has been added. Check out your favorite Midwest athletes as ambassadors and help support this major funding source for our junior development.
NNF: Drive for 25 Fundraising Week
November 20, 2022National Nordic Foundation's annual fundraiser effort, the Drive for 25, is running this week! A $100K matching grant is possible - check out your favorite Midwest athletes as ambassadors and help support this major funding source for our junior development.
CXC: Ski Lessons at Turkey Birkie
November 18, 2022The Turkey Birkie is set for Nov 25-27th at the Birkie trailhead in Cable. CXC will be providing ski lessons each day, and are open to all abilities -- register today.
Lumi Experiences: Free Trip Giveaway
November 17, 2022Lumi Experiences cross country ski vacations is partnering with the Worldloppet and giving away a trip for two on the 2023 Seefeld and Engadin trip to celebrate Lumi's continued partnership as official tour operator of the Worldloppet ski marathon series. Sign up for their newsletter by Dec 15th to enter.
CXC Online Auction Opens Wednesday
November 15, 2022CXC's 6th Annual Online Auction opens Wednesday morning with nearly 150 unique items up for grabs from over 20 different vendors and outdoor enthusiasts. Keep an eye on your favorite items and be sure to place your bids before the auction ends on Nov 25th. Proceeds from the auction go towards supporting CXC programs and events.
Team Birkie Clinic Monday Evening
November 13, 2022Team Birkie is hosting free strength training clinic this Monday evening, Nov 14th at Performance Running Gym in St. Louis Park, MN.
NNF: Drive for 25 Starts Monday, Nov 21st
November 10, 2022The National Nordic Foundation's major fundraising effort, Drive for 25, starts Monday. The possibility for $100K matching grant is available this year! They are currently seeking more ambassadors to help build excitement and raise funds.
Team Birkie Ski Walking and Moose Hoofing Clinic Saturday
November 1, 2022In partnership with Finn Sisu, Team Birkie is hosting a free clinic this Saturday, Nov 5th, at Hyland Lake. Covering ski walking and moose hoofing, coaches Leo Hipp and Caitlin Gregg will lead participants through drills and technique tips, followed by a workout on the hills. Afterwards, gather for refreshments, a Q&A with the team, and a free raffle!
Endurance United: Winter Programs Filling Up
October 30, 2022Winter offerings with Endurance United are beginning to fill up, so consider signing up today while space is still available. Ranging from beginner and intermediate classes to weekly training programs, there's something for everyone, no matter your background.
Endurance Adventures: Midwest Tuneup Event Tuesday, Nov 1st
October 28, 2022Endurance Adventures' second fall tune up seminar, featuring Olympian Brian Gregg and Kim Rudd, is just a few days out. Stop by Gear West on November 1st for an informational evening covering racing tips, new wax products, ski fit and grind, and a presentation on the 2022/2023 Endurance Adventures ski trips. Plus, just by attending you'll earn a $100 coupon towards an Endurance Adventures trip!
University of Minnesota Press: Books for Winter, Skiing, and Snow Lovers
October 24, 2022With winter fast approaching, and with it the holiday gift giving season, the University of Minnesota Press has some recommendations for those bookworms in our lives who share a love for snow, skiing, and winter.
Gear West: We Rise Women's Day, Dec 18th
October 23, 2022Mark your calendars for Dec 18th, We Rise Rossignol Women's Day. Hosted by Gear West at the Trailhead in Minneapolis, join Jan Guenther and Jenny Beckman for a fun and educational morning on snow for women of all abilities and ages. After the lessons, catch presentations from Abby Drach, founder of Indura Athletic, Kim Rudd, owner of Endurance Adventures, and BethAnn Chamberlain, USA Para-Nordic Coach; then grab some lunch provided by Mill Valley Market.
Endurance Adventures: Midwest Tuneup Event Tuesday, Nov 1st
October 19, 2022Endurance Adventures' second fall tune up seminar, featuring Olympian Brian Gregg and Kim Rudd, is less than two weeks out. Stop by Gear West on November 1st for an informational evening covering racing tips, new wax products, ski fit and grind, and a presentation on the 2022/2023 Endurance Adventures ski trips. Plus, just by attending you'll earn a $100 coupon towards an Endurance Adventures trip!
DXC: Winter Warmup Fundraiser, Nov 5th
October 15, 2022The Duluth Cross Country Ski Club will be hosting an evening of food, music, drinks, a silent auction, stories, and bonfires on Nov 5th at the Grand Avenue Chalet as a fundraiser for their youth programming. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased online or at the door.
Endurance Adventures: Midwest Tuneup Event Tuesday, Oct 11th
October 10, 2022Join Olympian Brian Gregg and World Cup skier Matt Liebsch for a fall tune up seminar including Ski Fit/Grind Seminar, Fall Training Tips and an Endurance Adventures 2022/23 Ski Trip Presentation, this Tuesday evening, October 11th at Pioneer Midwest. Bonus: Get $100 of an Endurance Adventure trip just by attending!
Yellowstone Ski Festival Clinics
October 4, 2022Come and join the professional coaching staff to get a “jump start” on your 2022 - 2023 ski season during the Yellowstone Ski Festival, November 22-26, 2022. Offerings including everything from 1-day classic and skate technique to 5-day skate and classic technique for performance.
Women Ski Coaches Association Launches GearUP Program
October 2, 2022From Oct 1st - 14th, the Women Ski Coaches Association will be accepting applications for their new GearUP program. The program is designed to help reduce barriers for women ski coaches by partnering women coaches with an equipment brand rep to outfit them with gear, provide brand specific knowledge, and create industry connections. Women with any level of experience currently coaching at the middle school level or above are encouraged to apply.
Loppet Winter Programming Registration and Ski Passes Now Available
October 1, 2022Starting Oct 1st, registration for Loppet programs and season ski passes is officially live! There is programming for juniors and adults of all skill levels in biking, skiing, yoga and more.
NNF: Annika Martell and Caitlin Gregg Announced as Trail to Gold Fellows
September 29, 2022The selection of the inaugural Trail to Gold Fellows was announced on Thursday, with Minnesota natives Annika Martell and Caitlin Gregg both receiving nods. As Trail to Gold Fellows, selectees will receive a grant to complete a two-week immersive internship with the US Ski Team during the World Cup season. Each Fellow was assigned to up to two racing venues, with Martell being named to Beitøstolen and Davos, and Gregg to Milano and Les Rousses.
Soldier Hollow Masters XC & BIA Camp
September 26, 2022Soldier Hollow's Schutzenski Festival is just two weeks out, and one of the many highlights of the festival is a masters altitude training camp lead by coach Bill Pierce. The camp will offer cross country and biathlon training sessions in the mornings and afternoons of Oct 11th - 13th, along with opportunities to hear from other top coaches and athletes and an evening spent dining out in Midway. Registrants will also receive training passes and race entries for cross country and biathlon events.
CXC Wayne Fish Coaches Conference and Certification Oct 21-23
September 21, 2022Registration for the 2021 CXC Wayne Fish Coaches Conference and Certification is open. This year the conference will be held in person in Cable, WI, Oct 22-24. Enhance your coaching skill and knowledge through both the Level 100 and 200 certification options and through continuing education. Plus, member club's can send up to two "apprentice" coaches on a complementary registration.
Soldier Hollow Schutzenski Festival
September 18, 2022Entering it's second year, the annual Schutzenski Festival will be held at Soldier Hollow in Midway, UT from Oct 10th - 16th. The festival will feature training opportunities for developing and elite level cross country and biathlon athletes such as races and clinics, in addition to meet and greets, a vendor village with the latest and greatest equipment, and great food and drink from local establishments.
CXC "Up North" Technique Clinics
September 14, 2022From Sept 23rd - 25th CXC will be offering a series of masters clinics focused on improving technique and becoming a better skier. Held in Cable, WI, the clinics will also be a great occasion to enjoy the nature in northern Wisconsin, and proceeds from the clinics will go towards supporting CXC's essential programming in the Central Region.
Yellowstone Ski Festival Clinic Registration Now Open
September 14, 2022Come and join the professional coaching staff to get a “jump start” on your 2022 - 2023 ski season during the Yellowstone Ski Festival, November 22-26, 2022. Offerings including everything from 1-day classic and skate technique to 5-day skate and classic technique for performance.
Mora Bike Tour Sept 17th
September 11, 2022This Saturday marks the 42nd running of the Mora Bike Tour, part of the Mora Classic Series. Starting and finishing at the Vasaloppet Nordic Center, there are two distances to choose from: a 25-mile and a 50-mile tour, both of which roll out at 8am. This year's event also features a new course and the return of the on-site biker's lunch. Online registration will be open through the morning of the tour, although registration fees will be increasing starting Sept 15th.
NNF Athlete Grants Program Now Open
August 26, 2022National Nordic Foundation's (NNF) Athlete Grant program is accepting applications for the upcoming season. The NNF Athlete Support Grant is designed to boost committed athletes who show potential for international racing success but might be in need of financial support beyond the typical pillar projects. Application deadline is Sept 15th.
CXC Annual Drawing: Ticket Sales Going Strong
August 25, 2022CXC Annual Fundraising drawing is going well with less than 200 tickets left! This year the grand prize drawing winner will receive a TREK Vale Go! 9D EQ S - Class 3 E-Bike. Great Rudy Project items for second and third place as well. The drawing happens on Sept 7th, so act quickly!
St. Scholastica: Seeking Assistant Nordic Coach
August 16, 2022Head coach Maria Stuber is searching for an assistant Nordic coach for the upcoming season. Duluth is an excellent place to live and the job provides great mentorship and career development opportunities.
Price Hike: Birkie Trail Run
August 9, 2022The big Birkie Trail Run festival is Sept 22-23 in Hayward. Register by Thursday night, Aug 11th, to avoid the next price hike.
Endurance Adventures: Masters Strength Clinic Aug 22nd
August 9, 2022Desire to get stronger for the upcoming ski season? Check out the free strength, plyometrics and balance clinic on Monday, Aug 22nd, sponsored by Endurance Adventures. The clinic will be led by local Olympian Brian Gregg and coach Kim Rudd.
Loppet Fall Training Programs Registration Opens
August 4, 2022Loppet fall training programs registration opens Friday, August 5th, at 9 am. There is programming for juniors and adults of all skill level for biking, skiing, yoga and more!
Endurance Adventures: Silverstar/Sovereign Lake Trip Price Hike
July 26, 2022Endurance Adventures is offering three unique Nordic ski trips to Canada, Washington and Alaska this coming 2022/23 winter season. Save $100 on the Silverstar and Sovereign Lake, Canada Ski Trip, Dec. 6-12 by registering for the early bird price until July 31st.
Lumi Experiences: Ready for a Tour de France on Skis?
July 22, 2022Garrott Kuzzy recaps the Lumi Experiences trip to the Transju' Worldloppet in France last winter. Book by July 31 and save $200 on the trip this winter!
Finn Sisu: Rollerski Clinic with Michaela Keller-Miller this Saturday
July 20, 2022Finn Sisu and Midwest native Michaela Keller-Miller are teaming up to offer a free skate rollerski clinic for intermediate to advanced skiers this Saturday, July 23rd, from 8 to 10 am at Long Lake Regional Park. The clinic will cover various coordination and stability exercises, as well as technique drills, after which Michaela will stick around to answer questions about rollerskiing and skiing in general. There will here will also be a raffle including some Marwe products, so be sure to not miss out!
CXC Citizen Technique Training Camp
July 15, 2022CXC will be hosting a masters/citizen technique training camp, August 26-28, in Cable, Wisconsin. The camp is open to skiers of all ages and ability levels who are looking to improve technique and become a better skier.
Endurance Adventures Clinic and Trip Presentation
July 11, 2022Come for a free pole hike/bounding clinic with Olympian Brian Gregg and coach Kim Rudd on Thursday, July 21st! Following the outdoor clinic the group will head inside for a post workout appetizers/beverages and hear a presentation on the upcoming Endurance Adventures 2022/23 Trips.
CXC Announces Tony Wise Lifetime Achievement Award: Nancy Bauer
July 10, 2022The Tony Wise Lifetime Achievement Award goes to an individual who has demonstrated a lifetime commitment to the sport: Nancy Bauer. Bauer has worked and volunteered with numerous organizations including the Hayward Middle and High School, Minneapolis Ski Club, Nordic Kids, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, Ski and Tea and many more. as well as a member of the Minnesota State High School Nordic Ski Coaches Association Hall of Fame, a former president of CXC and the Minnesota Coaches Association.
CXC Announces Wayne Fish Volunteer Service Award: Scott Putman
July 4, 2022The Wayne Fish Volunteer of the Year Award goes to “the heart and soul of Wisconsin skiing,” Scott Putman. Scott spearheads one of the most active clubs in Wisconsin, the Ashwaubenon Nordic Ski Team (ANST), is the chair of the Great Lakes Division Junior Subcommittee, and is an outspoken advocate for Wisconsin representation on the national ski scene.
CXC John Hugus Community Leadership Award: Mike Abbott
June 26, 2022The 2022 John Hugus Leadership Award winner is Mike Abbott, of the Michigan Technological University (MTU) community. Abbott was one of the pioneers of the project that brought 60k of beautiful MTU trails and facilities into existence, and has been integrated in all aspects of sport development, implementation, and accessibility at MTU.
Health Roundup
June 7, 2022Fastpacking - Never heard of fastpacking? Combine trail running and backpacking.
Fitness Myths - Take this quiz on fitness myths.
Best Time - A new study looks at the best time of day to exercise, with some surprisingly differences for men versus women.
Whey Old? - Does protein powder help with aging muscles?
WADA Updates - Pay attention to new additions and changes to the doping list, including new limits on albuterol (inhaler).
Joy Workout - NYTimes posted a video highlighting six moves to improve your mood.
Endurance United Summer Juniors Starts June 13th
May 22, 2022Endurance United summer junior training programs fire up Monday, June 13th. Skiwerx programs will start the following Monday. Registration is still available.
Loppet LEMONS
May 22, 2022Loppet LEMONS is Loppet Nordic Racing's year-round adult training team, and they who are looking to add members. Join them Monday evening, May 23rd, for an informational meeting on Loppet training.
Training Presentation and Summer LNR and Loppet Run Programs
May 16, 2022Loppet Sport Director Piotr Bednarski will give an endurance training presentation next Monday evening, May 23rd at the Trailhead. Joining Bednarski will be 1500m World Champion Abdi Bile. Presentation will cover differences between junior and adult training, with examples for xc skiing, running and cycling. Plus check out their wide array of summer training programs.
LNR Summer Training Info Meeting May12th
May 10, 2022Loppet Nordic Racing will hold an information meeting this Thursday evening, May 12th at the Trailhead. Find out the latest on LNR summer programs and camps. There is also a Zoom meeting link.
Haig Glacier On Snow Trip
May 6, 2022Join coach and World Cup athlete Matt Liebsch for a week of summer skiing (and hiking) on Haig Glacier in the Canadian Rockies. This year's trip is scheduled for Aug 23-28. Save on fees by registering before June 15th.