March 14, 2006 (Hayward, Wis.) – During the 33rd American Birkebeiner, held February 24, 2006, 82 skiers raised more than $37,000 for the new Ski for the Cure program. The program, launched in conjunction with the Komen Foundation, host of the Race for the Cure events held throughout the United States, raised funds in the fight against breast cancer.

Donor/skiers voluntarily collected pledges and designated the Madison, Milwaukee, Brainerd Lakes or Minnesota (based in Minneapolis) Affiliate(s) as the recipient of the funds.

On race day, Ski for the Cure participants wore pink ribbons, and nine breast cancer survivors wore pink bibs. Various awards were given to all skiers raising pledges at or above specific amounts.

Mary Krook, Duluth, MN, said she was proud to wear the pink bib and to raise nearly $4,000 for the program. As top pledge collector, Krook wins free entry into the 2007 American Birkebeiner race of her choice and free lodging at Lakewoods Resort, Cable.

In addition, the following Ski for the Cure participants were awarded weekend get-aways through a random drawing:

Deb Diggins, Afton, MN – Rossí Teal Lake Lodge, Hayward
Emily Lanin, Brainerd, MN – Ramada, Hayward
Nancy Bauer, Champlin, MN – Tagalong Golf and Resort, Birchwood

“From the start, we could not predict how successful Ski for the Cure would be,” said Ned Zuelsdorff, Executive Director of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. “We just knew it was worth a try. Our skiers came through by raising more than $37,000. That ís $37,000 plus to add to the fight against breast cancer.”

Zuelsdorff said he will soon begin discussions and plans for Ski for the Cure II, at the 2007 American Birkebeiner.

For more information about the Ski for the Cure or the Subaru American Birkebeiner, log on to http://www.birkie.com or call 715.634.5025.