November 9, 2005 – Hello Birkie skiers and friends! Lately, the thermometer outside the State Bank of Drummond in Cable has been consistently in the 20s when I drive past in the morning on my way to work. One morning there was a heavy frost on the golden Tamaracks and roadside grasses. It was beautiful and it feels like ski season is near.

The registration forms are pouring in as we just passed the November 1 fee increase. The numbers are not in, but folks here say that the volume seems heavier than last year. This creates even more motivation as we continue to take steps toward the 2006 Birkebeiner.

“Birkie Celebration Tent” and Changing Area Added to Finish Line Last month we told you about the large new “Birkie Celebration Tent” that will be located adjacent to Main Street, just before the finish line. We are making other changes to the finish line area.

If you’ve skied the full Birkie, you remember the walk to the Armory to get your bag and some food. After skiing 51K it wouldn’t seem like another three blocks would be a big deal. But you’re tired, wet, hungry, and well, you remember. This year, YOU WON’T HAVE TO MAKE THE WALK! This year, you’ll find your clothes bag a few feet past the finish area, and then walk a half block to a changing area, final aid station, ski check and the Celebration Tent itself where you can sit down and talk with your buddies. These changes are possible thanks to sponsors, local officials and our race chiefs who want the event to be the best possible for you!

We’ve even spruced up the look of the Birkie Office itself. We’ve gone from a dull, institutional flesh colored exterior to a bolder brick red. This change was possible thanks to Bill Ryan, commercial painter and Birkie race chief, and his crew: Cynthia Cotton, Judy Lessard and Derek Ryan. Stop in and take a look.

Stay in touch with “Carpe Skiem” and our website for future updates. We appreciate your feedback and ideas. You can contact me at ned@birkie.com or 715/634-5025.

All my best,

Ned Zuelsdorff, Executive Director

Ski For The Cure

Get fit and support a great cause! Register now for our new program, Ski For the Cure! Details at http://www.birkie.com/komen/ski_for_the_cure.html

Birkie Ski Tour

Don’t miss the Birkie Trail Ski Tour & Demo scheduled Saturday, Dec. 10 at OO!

The Trail Tour starts at 1 p.m. You’ll ski with instructors Tim Swift and Ben Lund (top 100 Birkie skiers) to the High Point and back. You’ll learn to ski the terrain more efficiently, you’ll emulate a proficient skier, and you’ll learn better technique.


The XC Ski Demo starts at dusk. After a great day on the trail, you’ll have a blast when you join us for the party under the lights at dusk. Beer, bonfire, music, food and new skis to try!

Visit the spectacular Nordic playground at the OO warming hut! For more info, log on to http://www.riverbrookbike.com contact; call Riverbrook Bike & Ski at 800.297.7687 or email riverbrook@centurytel.net