June 12, 2013 (Hayward, WI) – On June 13-16, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation will host delegates from all 16 nations of the Worldloppet Ski Federation at the Worldloppet Annual General Meeting in Hayward/Cable, Wisconsin. The American Birkebeiner will host both meetings and times to socialize at various venues in Hayward and Cable, Wisconsin, including Lakewoods Resort and the Lumberjack Village.
The Worldloppet Annual General Meeting is a time for ski marathon organizations to sit down together and work on ways to continually improve and promote the sport of cross country skiing worldwide. This will be the first time in approximately 15 years that the American Birkebeiner has hosted this annual Worldloppet meeting.
“The American Birkebeiner is extremely honored and excited to be hosting the organizers of the other great ski marathon races from around the world. To also have the opportunity to show off the iconic Birkie Trail as well as our local communities is fantastic,” says Ben Popp, new Executive Director of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation.
MORE ABOUT THE WORLDLOPPET …
Below is more about the Worldloppet Ski Federation, from the organization’s website at www.Worldloppet.com.
Worldloppet Ski Federation:
Worldloppet is an international sports federation of cross-country skiing marathons. The federation was founded in 1978 in Uppsala, Sweden. The aim of Worldloppet is to promote the sport of cross-country skiing through the various ski races around the world.
Worldloppet Members:
Only one and the best race from a country can be a member of Worldloppet. The youngest member is a polish race, Bieg Piastow, that was admitted by Worldloppet Annual General Meeting in Mora, SWE, 2008. Worldloppet currently unites 16 races from Europe, America, Asia and Australia:
Europe: Jizerská padesátka (CZE), Dolomitenlauf (AUT), Marcialonga (ITA), König Ludwig Lauf (GER), Tartu Maraton (EST), La Transjurassienne (FRA), Finlandia-hiihto (FIN), Vasaloppet (SWE), Engadin Skimarathon (SUI), Birkebeinerrennet (NOR), Bieg Piastow (POL)
North America: American Birkebeiner (USA), Gatineau Loppet (CAN)
Asia: Sapporo International Ski Marathon (JPN) Demino Ski Marathon (RUS)
Australia: Kangaroo Hoppet
Worldloppet Strategy:
High quality ski races around the World. Only one and the best race from a country can be a member of Worldloppet.
Regularity and continuity. Each race, having its own history, traditions and program, is held usually at the same time every year. After completing 10 different Worldloppet races, at least one of them overseas, a skier can apply for the Worldloppet Master title.
Races for everybody. Races different by length, technique, landscape and target group attract 80 000 participants every year.
Participation of elite skiers. FIS Marathon Cup, consisting of 10 Worldloppet races, is a Worldloppet series for top skiers.
April 12, 2013 (Truckee, CA) – Kris Freeman powered away from his competitors at the end of the men’s 50km CL Distance National Championhips, besting teammate Andy Newell, to win the coveted 2013 U.S. title in Lake Tahoe following the USSA SuperTour Finals. In this video, Martha Bellisle recaps the race with some great action footage and catches up with Freeman, Newell, and third place, Norway’s Einar Ulsund, for their comments on the race – full report and results HERE.
April 11, 2013 (Truckee, CA) – Liz Stephen won a landslide victory in the women’s 30km CL event, besting teammmate and World Cup Sprint Champion Kikkan Randall, to earn herself the title at 2013 U.S. Distance National Championships in Lake Tahoe following the USSA SuperTour Finals. In this video, Martha Bellisle recaps the race and catches up with Stephen and Randall for their thoughts on how it all unfolded – full report and results HERE.
March 27, 2013 (Toronto, ON) – We’re sorry for the delay and thrilled to announce the overall standings and winners of the second annual SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup 2012/13 Contest after the Engadin Skimarathon 42km free technique race held in Switzerland on March 10. Read our coverage of the 45th Engadin Skimarathon, including final overall FIS Marathon Cup standings here.
Team dom managed to defend the lead to the end with 650 points, while teams beaujo and legrandbo made last-minute charges to earn top-three finishes with 644 and 640 points, respectively.
For the final contest standings after the Engadin Skimarathon, please click HERE.
Congratulations to the winners and thanks again to all contestants and our great sponsors including Nipika, Marwe, Yoko, Halti, Skiwax.ca, 2XU, One Way, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Auclair, and Buff.
FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup Prize Winners
– dom – Dom Berrod – Fleurie, France
* 1st Prize – Nipika Lodge – 4-nights for 2 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,160)
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
March 25, 2013 (Labrador City, NL) – The 38th PAL Great Labrador Loppet was an exciting event to remember. It was very worrisome on Friday night with blowing snow, 60-80Km winds and low visibility. But we persevered, sent our two Pisten Bullys (Menihek Nordic & Whitewolf Snowmobile Club) to Fermont 28K start at 2:00AM, held them there until 6:00AM and then came to the Duley Park 10K start and waited there until an hour before the start 10:00AM so we could achieve best possible track and skating course.
At 6:00 AM, on going out around the course start & finish areas, we found out that the snow had stopped, the winds were dying down and it warmed to 0’C. The 38th PAL Great Labrador Loppet was a go. The course was set, 129 people had signed up to ski or snow shoe, all the start finish areas were ready, all the venues, Menihek, Smokey, Whitewolf and the Club Lagopede de Motoneige in Fermont were ready, Circular road was barricaded, the railway from Bloomlake was shut and guarded, the town trucks for the skis were at the mall the buses came, the skiers arrived and away we go for the Loppet.
It was a great day for skiing,the course a challenge but it was warm. Lots of hard luck stories, the first moose observed on the loppet trail. The rest stops, feed & refreshment stations were excellent,lots of volunteers and groups from Search & Rescue, H.O.W.L.S (Ham Radio), Patrol Whitewolf, Town of Labrador City, RNC & some Canadian Ski Patrol also skied the course.
The timing crew did a great job and people were really good sending in pictures of their loppet experience.
The awards ceremony for youth was at 2:00 at White wolf, a great job there with food and refreshments for all Loppet skiers. In the evening, there was a banquet and awards ceremonies and dance at Smokey Mountain Ski Club for skiers and volunteers, guest speaker was Min.Nick McGrath. Smokey did an excellent job on the steaks and food. The dance after was a lot of fun.
Another successful PAL Great Labrador Loppet for the history books. We are very appreciative to all our skiers, organizers, staff, volunteers, and sponsors, thank you all.
March 15, 2013 (Toronto, ON) – We are pleased to announce the standings for the second annual SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup 2012/13 Contest after the American Birkebeiner 50km free technique race held in Hayward, Wisconsin on Feb. 23. Team dom has jumped into the lead with 473 points, knocking Team Redl into second with 456 points. Team asterion is now ranked third with 447 points.
Read our coverage of the 2013 American Birkebeiner and how husband and wife duo Brian and Caitlin Gregg won the men’s and women’s races, respectively here.
For the contest standings after the American Birkebeiner, please click HERE.
These are the only FIS Fantasy Nordic contests of their kind worldwide so don’t miss your chance to enjoy fabulous top level xc ski racing and win fabulous prizes – good luck to all contestants.
FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup Prizes
* 1st Prize – Nipika Lodge – 4-nights for 2 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,160) * 2nd Prize – Marwe 610c Roller Skis (value $349) * 3rd Prize – Yoko 9100 Poles (value $299) * 4th Prize – Halti XC Race Suit Hemmo Set (value $269) * 5th Prize – Skiwax.ca Racer Kickwax kit (value $235) * 6th Prize – 2XU Long Sleeve Thermal Compression Top and Elite Socks (value $195) * 7th Prize – One Way Snowbird Glasses (value $120) * 8th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $100) * 9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) * 10th Prize – Buff Headware (value $23)
Thanks to all of our great sponsors, including Nipika, Marwe, Yoko, Halti, Skiwax.ca, 2XU, One Way, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Auclair, and Buff.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
March 06, 2013 (Sweden) – Check out this video of participants crashing hard as they hit an icy patch of track during this year’s 90km classic Vasaloppet marathon ski race in Sweden between the towns of Salen and Mora. This year’s edition saw 15,000 registrants. Watch the video HERE.
March 04, 2013 (Mora, Sweden) – Canada’s Andrea Dupont, known for her sprinting prowess on the Haywood NorAm circuit, finished an impressive 11th in the women’s field of the fabled 90km Vasaloppet in Sweden to log the top Canadian result in a time of 4:51.46, trailing women’s winner Laila Kveli of Norway by 0:29.24. The event drew nearly 15,000 participants, including almost 2,000 women.
Dupont represented Canada in the sprint events at the recent FIS Nordic Worlds in Val di Fiemme, Italy, and stayed on in Europe to race the Vasaloppet marathon.
“Pretty good for a sprinter,” said Rodney Ruddock of Ski*go Canada.
February 18, 2013 (Gatineau, Quebec) – The sun shone high overhead, but the temperature dipped low all around on the second day of the Gatineau Loppet. Still, everyone was in a great mood, and the participants, which included elite as well as recreational skiers, were eager to get into today’s freestyle races.
51 and 27 km freestyle
The 51 and 27 km races were delayed 30 minutes because at 8 this morning the mercury had plunged to -28 with the wind chill. But even that could not deter the 1000 participants gathered at the start line at 9:30 a.m. sharp. The first to cross the finish line was Ian Murray (Canmore, CAN), with a time of 2 hours, 30 minutes and 11 seconds. He was followed by Jonathan Tremblay (Chicoutimi, CAN), who finished one second ahead of Ryan Atkins (Oshawa, CAN). On the women´s side, Robyn Anderson (Stowe, USA) crossed the finish line 9 minutes ahead of her closest rival, Martina Stursova (CZE), who was back on the podium for the second day in a row. Lea Davison (Jericho, USA) rounded out the women´s top three in the 51 km freestyle.
The men´s 27 km freestyle was won by Peter Novak (CZE), followed by Cameron Raynor (Huntsville, CAN) and Benjamin Osorio (Orillia, CAN), who had finished the 20 km classic in third place the previous day. Among the women, it was a local, Véronique Fortin (Gatineau, CAN), who made it to the top rung of the podium. She was followed by the first member of the Legend´s Path, Sheila Kealey, who had finished second in the previous day´s 55 km classic. Annie Chenard (Montréal, CAN) took third place.
10 km BFL Canada
Finally, the 10 km BFL Canada women´s freestyle went to none other than the event´s Honorary President, Tara Whitten, who had finished in fourth place in Saturday´s 55 km classic style. Next on the podium were Laura Leclair (Chelsea, CAN) in second place, and Alyssa Stowe (Almonte, CAN) in third. Among the men, Benjamin Wilkinson-Zan (Ottawa, CAN), Nicholas Pigeon (Gatineau, CAN) and Aaron Fahey (Chelsea, CAN) finished first, second and third, respectively.
And last but not least were the hundreds of children accompanied by their parents who took part in the 2 km Mini Sport Échange Outaouais. This untimed race is part of the Carnaval Soleil Polaire, a huge neighbourhood celebration initiated by the municipal Councillor for the L’Orée-du-Parc district, Mireille Apollon. Entertainment for the kids, music, inflatable structures and dishes from around the world all helped to warm up the families and skiers at the site.
February 06, 2013 (Toronto, ON) – We are pleased to announce that team modification is now open for the FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup 2012/13 Contest – the twist. Contestants can modify their team until 10pm EST on Feb. 9, prior to the 57/76km CL Tartu Maraton in Estonia on Feb. 10.
Contestants may only swap one of their team’s four main skiers – either male or female – not their Outlaw Skier. All points earned to date by the skier that’s out are retained, and only points earned by the new skier from Feb. 10 going forward will be counted.
Note: you only have one chance to make the swap – once completed you will not be able to change your selection so please be sure of your choice before making the change.
* 1st Prize – Nipika Lodge – 4-nights for 2 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,160) * 2nd Prize – Marwe 610c Roller Skis (value $349) * 3rd Prize – Yoko 9100 Poles (value $299) * 4th Prize – Halti XC Race Suit Hemmo Set (value $269) * 5th Prize – Skiwax.ca Racer Kickwax kit (value $235) * 6th Prize – 2XU Long Sleeve Thermal Compression Top and Elite Socks (value $195) * 7th Prize – One Way Snowbird Glasses (value $120) * 8th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $100) * 9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) * 10th Prize – Buff Headware (value $23)
Good luck to all contestants and thanks to all of our great sponsors, including Nipika, Marwe, Yoko, Halti, Skiwax.ca, 2XU, One Way, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Auclair, and Buff.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
January 31, 2013 – We would like to apologize and correct the information printed in the SkiTrax Dec/Holiday 2012 issue regarding the upcoming 35th Gatineau Loppet, scheduled for Feb. 15-17 in Gatineau, Que. The errors were in regards to some events and distances. The correct info is below. We apologize again to all parties concerned for any confusion.
Gatineau Loppet, Feb. 15 – 17, Gatineau, Que.
One of the biggest events of cross-country skiing in Canada for Elite skiers and families and celebrating its 35th year, the Gatineau Loppet is held in Gatineau Park. Approximately 3,000 skiers will participate over three days of racing that feature classical events 5km, 20km, 38km, and 55km (the 55km is part of the Worldloppet Series) and skate events 10km, 27km and 51km.
There is also the Mini 2km Sport Échange Outaouais for children. Those who complete the Gatineau Loppet Challenge will receive a pin as a testament to their achievement: Gold for 55km and 51km; Silver for 55km or 51km and 38km or 27km; Bronze for 38km and 27km. 214 St-Joseph Blvd., Gatineau, QC, J8Y 3X4.
January 30, 2013 (Montebello, QC) – Fast and Female is inviting female cross country ski enthusiasts ages 7 to 19 to attend an afternoon activity of inspiration on February 9 led by 2010 Olympian Madeleine Williams as part of the Canadian Ski Marathon.
Williams, an accomplished cross country skier and runner as well as a current Law student at McGill university will join the girls for an inspirational presentation followed by a personal development exercise on attitude as well as fun dance and yoga sessions. The event will take place at Château Montebello – one of the largest log-built hotels in the world – from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm on Saturday, February 9.
“I’m very excited to be leading the Fast and Female event at the Canadian Ski Marathon because this event is one of our country’s premiere ski events,” said Williams. “This is a great opportunity to reach an audience of racers and recreational skiers alike. Inspiring girls to stay in sport is important to me because sport teaches so many vital life lessons and encourages lifelong health,” concluded the retired World Cup cross country racer who still competes in cross country running.
As a two-day event, the CSM features 160 kilometres of skiing divided into 5 sections each day, with an average of 16 km per section. Skiers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate and can do so safely. There are checkpoints at the end of each section providing food, first, aid an other services, as well as shuttle buses that run between accommodation and checkpoints throughout each day. The CSM alternates its direction each year, from East to West one year and then West to East the next – between Gatineau and Lachute.
Unlike most ski events, there are no winners or losers in the Canadian Ski Marathon. Each skier can select his/her own level of challenge and try to achieve it. One can ski as little as 12 km or up to the maximum of 160 km over the weekend.
“Chandra Crawford, Madeline Williams and the Fast and Female team have brought an inspiring energy to the 2013 Canadian Ski Marathon,” said Bill Syrros, CSM President “We recognize and respect the level of empowerment and encouragement they’re offering to CSM youth; to ski and to be the best that they can be.”
Fast and Female is a non-profit organization launched in seven years ago by Chandra Crawford – 2006 Olympic gold medalist and honorary president for this year’s edition of the Canadian Ski Marathon. The organization’s mission is to support, encourage and motivate girls to stay in sports. It is believed that girls are six times more likely to drop out of sports than boys by the time they reach 14 years old.
“I’m super pumped that we are able to bring the Fast and Female message of joy for sport to the girls taking part in the Canadian Ski Marathon,” said Crawford who is in Europe for the remainder of the World Cup season. “The CSM is a tremendous event for participants of all ages and abilities to push their limits in a fun and supportive environment. This is extremely in line with Fast and Female’s values of inspiring all girls to follow their passions for sport and continuously challenge themselves to improve as athletes and as human beings. I’m sure all the girls attending the Fast and Female activity will learn a lot from Madeleine’s presence and her lessons on perseverance and determination.”
The February 9 Fast and Female activity in Montebello is open to female youth Canadian Ski Marathon participants as well as non participants from the area.
The cost for the events is $25 for youth and includes a Fast & Female t-shirt, a healthy snack, a magazine subscription (Pedal or SkiTrax) and an autographed poster. Online registration is open until February 8 at lunch time HERE or at www.fastandfemale.com.
As a complement to the event, Fast and Female and the Canadian Ski Marathon are also partnering to run a Marathon Girl Contest. As part of the contest, girls ages 7 to 19 registered in the Canadian Ski Marathon are invited to submit a short paragraph on what makes them exemplary Fast and Female Marathon Girls. Ten young women will be selected as part of this contest and will be rewarded with a free Fast and Female Buff. Entries in the contest can be sent to info@fastandfemale.com.
For more information about the Canadian Ski Marathon and to register, click HERE.
January 28, 2013 (Gatineau, QC) – Yes, in less than a month, from February 15th to 17th, 2013, we will be giving the start for the 35th edition of the Gatineau Loppet. We hope that your preparation for the biggest cross-country skiing event in Canada is going well. We invite you to participate at the Gatineau Loppet in your way – as a skier, volunteer, spectator or as a visitor.
Happy reading and we look forward to seeing you all on the trails.
– Yan Michaud, president of the Gatineau Loppet
Tara Whitten Named Honorary President
On January 15th 2013, at our press conference, we had the great pleasure to announce the Honorary President of the 35th Gatineau Loppet: Olympic medalist in London in 2012, Tara Whitten. We invite you to read the press release and biographical document to learn more about this athlete who’s been significant in both skiing and cycling. Tara will ski the 55 km classic on Saturday and the 10 km freestyle on Sunday. Come and ski with her!
New Challenges
On February 16th, two new linear courses of 55 and 38 km classic style will be inaugurate at the start of Lac Philippe (P.19). Participants of both races will have the chance to ski through the beautiful scenery of three municipalities; La Pêche, Chelsea and Gatineau.
It is very important to note that all skiers who take part in the 55 and 38 km classic will be transported by bus to Lac Philippe. Then, they must:
– Go at the Mont-Bleu Secondary School on Saturday morning;
– Be prepared to take the bus 1 h 10 before the start of their race at Lac Philippe;
– Go in front of the school to take the bus.
NO PARKING WILL BE ALLOWED P19.
Skiers register for the 55 and 38 km classic will receive an email with all the details a week before the event.
Carnaval Soleil Polaire
We are extremely pleased to present the second year of the Carnaval Soleil Polaire, neighborhood party held Sunday, February 17th, 2013. At noon, we invite you behind the Relais plein air to participate in a variety of activities for all. Inflatables, face painting, giant skis, music, culinary enjoyment await you. This is a family event not to be missed.
Cross-country Ski Show
This year, at the cross-country ski show, you will find the major players in the industry and also several retailers in the region: Atomic, Buff, Bushtukah, Fischer, Fresh Air Experience, Greg Christies, One Way, Peccos, Salomon, Skifast Ergometer, Suunto, Swix … without forgetting the Gatineau Loppet’s shop!
Volunteers
The Gatineau Loppet is looking for volunteers in different positions:
– Feeding stations
– Medals and awards
– Sales
– Official
– Start / Finish
Accommodations
For official hotels and rates, click HERE.
Location Sauvageau Promotion
To get in Gatineau, enjoy a 5% discount on car rental from our partner Location Sauvageau by using the following promotional code: 2013LOPPET35
Haywood NorAm (FIS) Canadian Eastern Championships
The 2013 Haywood NorAm (FIS) Canadian Eastern Championships will be held at Nakkertok Nordic Centre, Cantley, Québec, from Feb 1-3, 2013. We encourage you to support the cross-country skiing community and to contribute to the success of this event by volunteering. Please click HERE for details.
On behalf of the EOC-2013, thank you for supporting this prestigious cross country ski event!
Canadian Ski Marathon
Learn about the Canadian Ski Marathon, a Nordic ski tour of 160 km over two days that will take place on February 9 and 10, 2013 between Gatineau and Lachute, Quebec HERE.
Special Offer Gatineau Loppet – Ski Trax
Gatineau Loppet and SkiTrax Magazine, the largest cross-country ski magazine in North America, have teamed up to bring you great savings. SkiTrax keeps you up to date on all the latest Nordic news, ski gear, adventure and recreational skiing, including race reports from across Canada, the USA, and around the world – check out skitrax.com.
Gatineau Loppet participants save 30% off regular subscription prices – try a SkiTrax/Pedal Combo Deal and get Pedal Magazine as well – to order click HERE.
Remember to “like” the Facebook page of the Gatineau Loppet HERE!
January 23, 2013 (Toronto, ON) – We are happy to announce the standings for the second annual SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup 2012/13 Contest after the third round – Dolomitenlauf 42km free technique race held last weekend in Lienz, Austria. Team SSWSC still holds top spot in the contest with 206 points, while Nordic Thunder has moved up into second place with 171 points. Team Broken Poles has leaped into the top three with 158 points.
Olga Mikhailova (RUS) and Sergio Bonaldi (ITA) won the women’s and men’s races, respectively – read more here.
For contest standings after Dolomitenlauf click HERE.
These are the only FIS Fantasy Nordic contests of their kind worldwide so don’t miss your chance to enjoy fabulous top level xc ski racing and win fabulous prizes – good luck to all contestants.
Remember to register for our FIS Fiemme 2013 Fantasy Contest, launching soon…!
FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup Prizes
* 1st Prize – Nipika Lodge – 4-nights for 2 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,160) * 2nd Prize – Marwe 610c Roller Skis (value $349) * 3rd Prize – Yoko 9100 Poles (value $299) * 4th Prize – Halti XC Race Suit Hemmo Set (value $269) * 5th Prize – Skiwax.ca Racer Kickwax kit (value $235) * 6th Prize – 2XU Long Sleeve Thermal Compression Top and Elite Socks (value $195) * 7th Prize – One Way Snowbird Glasses (value $120) * 8th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $100) * 9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) * 10th Prize – Buff Headware (value $23)
Thanks to all of our great sponsors, including Nipika, Marwe, Yoko, Halti, Skiwax.ca, 2XU, One Way, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Auclair, and Buff.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
January 16, 2013 (Toronto, ON) – We are pleased to announce the standings for the second annual SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup 2012/13 Contest after the second race – Jizerská Padesatka 50km CT race held last weekend in Liberec, Czech Republic. Team SSWSC continues to lead in the contest with 176 points, followed now by littlebig in second with 152 points and Nordic Thunder has moved in third with 141 points.
Valentina Shevchenko and Anders Aukland won the women’s and men’s races, respectively – read more here.
For contest standings after Jizerská Padesatka, click HERE.
These are the only FIS Fantasy Nordic contests of their kind worldwide so don’t miss your chance to enjoy fabulous top level xc ski racing and win fabulous prizes – good luck to all contestants.
Remember to register for our FIS Fiemme 2013 Fantasy Contest, launching soon…!
FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup Prizes
* 1st Prize – Nipika Lodge – 4-nights for 2 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,160) * 2nd Prize – Marwe 610c Roller Skis (value $349) * 3rd Prize – Yoko 9100 Poles (value $299) * 4th Prize – Halti XC Race Suit Hemmo Set (value $269) * 5th Prize – Skiwax.ca Racer Kickwax kit (value $235) * 6th Prize – 2XU Long Sleeve Thermal Compression Top and Elite Socks (value $195) * 7th Prize – One Way Snowbird Glasses (value $120) * 8th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $100) * 9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) * 10th Prize – Buff Headware (value $23)
Thanks to all of our great sponsors, including Nipika, Marwe, Yoko, Halti, Skiwax.ca, 2XU, One Way, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Auclair, and Buff.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
January 16, 2013 (Gatineau, QC) – In one month, from February 15th to 17th, 2013, the start of the Gatineau Loppet, the largest cross-country ski event in Canada, will be given. It’s in a festive spirit that the organizing committee unveiled today a few surprises for the 35th edition!
A Very Special Guest
The President of the Gatineau Loppet, Mr. Yan Michaud, said he was “extremely pleased to announce Tara Whitten as Honorary President of the event.” The 32-years-old athlete made her mark in cross-country skiing with her silver medal at the 2003 Under-23 World Championships, by winning the Gatineau Loppet’s 50 km freestyle in 2004 and also for competing as a member of Team Canada, in the 2005 Senior World Championships. In 2008, she exclusively devoted herself to cycling, where she was crowned Omnium World Champion on the track in 2010-2011 and also won the bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics in team pursuit. The young woman, native of Edmonton, is “delighted to reconnect with cross-country skiing for the 35th anniversary of the event.” She will participate in the 55 km classic on Saturday and also in the 10 km freestyle on Sunday: “Come and ski with me on February 16th and 17th, 2013 at the Gatineau Loppet!”.
New linear Courses
The Organizing Committee wishes to remind all skiers that for the 35th anniversary of the Gatineau Loppet, two new linear courses of 55 and 38 km classic starting from Philippe Lake will be inaugurated. Participants of these two races will have the opportunity to ski for the first time through the beautiful scenery of three municipalities; La Pêche, Chelsea and Gatineau.
Hall of Fame
As a legacy for the 35th anniversary of the Gatineau Loppet, the “Trail of Legends” Hall of Fame will be inaugurated. The organizing committee wishes to honor individuals or organizations that have marked the event or contributed significantly to the development of cross-country skiing. The first member of the “Gatineau Loppet Trail of Legends” will be presented during the Ice Worldoppet Cocktail hold February 16th at Mont Bleu High School.
For more information, visit our website at gatineauloppet.com.
January 16, 2013 (Hayward, WI) – Greetings Skiers and Friends! With the end of January just two weeks away, here is a reminder to take care of any of the three following items that affect you and to do so by January 31.
– Race, Technique, or Wave Change – Wave change requests will be the result of your time in a qualifying race that you ski by January 31. To see the list of qualifying races on Birkie.com, click HERE.
– Elite Skier Registration – If you are an Elite Birkie skier–whether you are skiing on a team or as an independent–please contact the Birkie office as soon as possible so that you are registered by Jan. 31. 715-634-5025.
– Birkie Adaptive Event Registration – If you are planning on participating in the Birkie Adaptive Ski Events, deadline for registration is January 31. There is no race-day or race-week registration. Click HERE to register.
Please let us know if you have any questions, and we will be happy to help you.
January 09, 2013 – It wasn’t sure for a long time if it would be possible to host the 46th edition of the Jizerská Padesatka on the 13th of January. Warm temperatures and a lot of rain had made it very difficult for the organisers to maintain the course. However, colder temperatures are announced for the coming days and also some new snow. With the help of a lot of volunteers, who helped to get snow back on the tracks, the OC decided that the race can be held. The track will remain the same as usual.
In total, 4470 participants from 30 nations will be on the start line for the 50km classic race which will pass through the wonderful landscape of the Iser mountains. Starting from the cross country stadium in Bedrichov, the track ducks into the forest and keeps on until close to the Polish boarder before turning back to Jizerka and finally to Bedrichov and the finish.
Already two days before, the first race goes under way with the 30km skating race around the Iser mountain tracks. The 25km classic race will then follow on Saturday.
All the classic specialists from Norway and Sweden will be present and are joining in the fight for the overall FIS Marathon Cup ranking for first time this season.
As there will also be the FIS Cross Country World Cup present in Liberec – only some kilometres from Bedrichov – the same weekend, a huge ski party will take place in the centre of Liberec Saturday night with a live band playing.
The racers – Who is on the start list?
First name to mention is certainly the one of Stanislav Rezac, the local hero, who could win last year’s edition. Last year’s complete podium will be present as Jimmy Johnsson (SWE) is announced to start as is Joergen Aukland (NOR) and his brother Anders. Toni Livers (SUI), the third of the FIS Marathon Cup opener La Sgambeda (ITA), Florian Kostner (ITA), Jerry Ahrlin (SWE), Daniel Tynell and his brother Rikard (SWE), Jörgen Brink (SWE) or Oskar Svärd (SWE) will certainly be the major contestants. It will be interesting to see how some World Cup skiers will do: Anders Soedergren (SWE), Simen Oestensen (NOR), Martin Bajcicak (SVK), Johan Kjoelstad (NOR), Vassili Rotchev (RUS) and Eldar Roenning (NOR) have decided to use the Jizerská Padesatka as a preparation for the 50km race at the World Championships in Val di Fiemme in the beginning of March later this year.
On the women’s side, the second and the third of last years race, Tatjana Manimaa (EST) and Jenny Hansson (SWE) will be present as will be last year’s overall FIS Marathon Cup winner Stephanie Santer (ITA), Laila Kveli (NOR), Susanne Nyström (SWE), Antonella Confortola (ITA), Seraina Boner (SUI) and Valentina Shevchenko (UKR). Vibeke Skofterud (NOR), who already did the Vasaloppet last year and who has also won it, will equally be starting.
The actual start list for the elite skiers can be found HERE (always subject to change).
Important dates & Information:
– January 13: Jizerská Padesatka (CZE) – 2nd FIS Marathon Cup 2012-13 / 50km classic
– 9am: start of the 50km Jizerská Padesatka at the Bedrichov cross country stadium
Winners in 2011:
– Men: 1st Stanislav Rezac (CZE), 2nd Jimmy Johnsson (SWE), 3rd Joergen Aukland (NOR)
– Women: 1st Sara Svendsen (NOR), 2nd Tatjana Manimaa (EST), 3rd Jenny Hansson (SWE)
More information on the race:
Jizerská Padesatka: www.jiz50.cz
Track information HERE.
Next FIS Marathon Cup: January 20 – Dolomitenlauf (AUT), 60km skating
Worldloppet – The World of Marathon Skiing!!!
More information: www.worldloppet.com
Visit also the official Worldlooppet Facebook Page HERE.
Never miss an info about the world of marathon skiing – follow @WLandFISMaCup
December 13, 2012 – Time is running out to register your team for the 2012/13 edition of the SkiTrax Fantasy FIS Marathon Cup International Contest in co-operation with FIS and the WorldLoppet Ski Federation! The deadline is 10pm EST, Dec. 15 – the day before the series kicks off with the FIS Marathon Cup season opener in Italy – La Sgambeda on Dec. 16. The Marathon Contest is similar to our other fantasy contests with some twists – here’s how it works.
Register your team of four (4) men and four (4) women plus one “Outlaw” male skier not in the top 15 and one “Outlaw” female skier not in the top 10 of the FIS Marathon Cup overall rankings – all lists are at registration.
*Note that we have updated the Outlaw Skier lists based on the Start List for La Sgambeda – please review and update your team if you wish.
Here’s the twist… following the Koenig Ludwig Lauf event (Feb. 2/13) we’ll allow contestants to swap one male and one female skier from their team for added excitement leading into the final four (4) races.
Points will be awarded following each Marathon Cup World Loppet based on each skier’s performance and published regularly at skitrax.com so you can see how your score compares with other international players and the actual FIS Marathon standings. Earn bonus Am Birkie or Gatineau Loppet Points plus other bonus points – all information and contest rules are available when you register your team – and read more about the FIS Marathon Cup HERE.
These are the only FIS Fantasy Nordic contests of their kind worldwide so don’t miss your chance to enjoy fabulous top level xc ski racing and win fabulous prizes – good luck to all contestants.
The deadline to register or revise your team is Saturday, Dec. 15, at 10pm EST, the day before FIS Marathon Cup season kicks off in Italy with La Sgambeda on Dec. 16 – and stay tuned for our Tour de Ski Contest launching very soon.
* 1st Prize – Nipika Lodge – 4-nights for 2 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,160) * 2nd Prize – Marwe 610c Roller Skis (value $349) * 3rd Prize – Yoko 9100 Poles (value $299) * 4th Prize – Halti XC Race Suit Hemmo Set (value $269) * 5th Prize – Skiwax.ca Racer Kickwax kit (value $235) * 6th Prize – 2XU Long Sleeve Thermal Compression Top and Elite Socks (value $195) * 7th Prize – One Way Snowbird Glasses (value $120) * 8th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $100) * 9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) * 10th Prize – Buff Headware (value $23)
Thanks to all of our great sponsors, including Nipika, Marwe, Yoko, Halti, Skiwax.ca, 2XU, One Way, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Auclair, and Buff.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
December 13, 2012 (Gatineau, QC) – You only have 48 hours to save up to 25% on registration fees of the Gatineau Loppet. By registering before this Saturday, December 15 at midnight, you’ll take advantage of several promotions and big discounts. Hurry up!
The Gatineau Loppet will be held from February 15th to 17th in the Gatineau Park.
Note that several innovations will be honored to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the event, including, our two new linear courses of 38 and 55 km classic that will leave Philippe Lake and also our new Cross-Country Canada sanction for our 55 km classic style course.
December 11, 2012 – After a year of absence due to lack of snow, La Sgambeda is back! Perfect conditions await all racers around the Italian town of Livigno. Just over the Swiss border and not far from Austria, the “little Tibet” valley features a 21km loop which will be raced two times for this 42km race in free technique. The race track develops along the river Spöl and through all the villages along it: Florin, Pont Lonc, Li Mina, Tresenda and runs as far as Campaciol. From around the Hotel Forcola (12,5 km point) the track turns back into the direction of the cross country stadium where the 21km mark is reached – half time! To finish after 42km, the racers have to turn once again towards the river Spöl in order to do another loop on the wonderful track running through the valley. The spectators cheering loud alongside the track will help the athletes to do this second round before they turn to the finish in the cross country stadium.
A lot of snow and pretty cold temperatures made it possible to perfectly prepare the track and to have it ready for all the cross country enthusiasts who are looking forward to this season opener of long distance racing! The forecast for this weekend announces slightly warmer temperatures (around -4°C) and the possibility of light snowfall.
The racers – who is on the start list?
As La Sgambeda functions as season opener, the best long distance racers will be on the start line! Just some of the classic specialists have decided to open their season with the Jizerská Padesatka 50km classic race, which will be held close to Liberec (CZE) on January 13.
Fabio Santus (ITA), winner of the 2011 edition, will try to race as fast as possible in order to gain the victory again. However, his team mates Florian Kostner, Cristian Zorzi and Sergio Bonaldi will try to prevent this. The same goes for Stanislav Rezac and Martin Koukal (both CZE) of the Skinfit Racing Team as well as for Espen Harald Bjerke and Morten Eide Pedersen (both NOR). Some World Cup skiers have decided to skip the races in Canada and to prepare their Tour de Ski, waiting for them at the end of the year, by taking part in La Sgambeda. So, names like Jean Marc Gaillard (FRA), Thomas Moriggl (ITA), Toni Livers (SUI) or Martin Bajcicak (SVK) will also be present to join in the battle for victory!
On the women’s side, one can find equally the names of the best of the discipline: Stephanie Santer (ITA), the overall FIS Marathon Cup winner of last season, will race as will do last years runner up Seraina Boner (SUI) and third placed Jenny Hansson (SWE). To be even more precise, six of the best seven of last year’s overall FIS Marathon Cup will be present, including names like Antonella Confortola (ITA), Tatjana Mannimaa (EST) and Valentina Shevchenko (URK). The last trying to win again after her victory in Livigno in 2011. Also World Cup skier Riitta-Liisa Roponen (FIN) will be on the start line, preparing for the Tour de Ski and the Nordic World Ski Championships later in 2013.
The actual start list for the elite skiers can be found HERE (always subject to change).
Also this year: The SkiTrax Fantasy FIS Marathon Cup contest FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup 2012/13 Contest – Register Your Team Today
The second annual FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup 2012/13 Contest is now open for team registration for fans around the world as the series kicks off in Italy with the season opener La Sgambeda, on Dec. 16. You can win great prizes and have fun while following the Marathon Cup all season. Register your team of four (4) men and four (4) women plus one “Outlaw” male skier not in the top 15 and one “Outlaw” female skier not in the top 10 of the FIS Marathon Cup overall rankings. Points are awarded following each Marathon Cup World Loppet based on each skier’s performance and published regularly at skitrax.com – plus you can earn bonus points as well.
All information and contest rules are available when you register your team here. The deadline to register or revise your team is Saturday, Dec. 15, at 10pm EST. To register click HERE.
FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup Prizes
And of course you can also win something!!! Have a look at the great prizes that wait for you at the end of the season:
* 1st Prize – Nipika Lodge-4-nights for 2 in a luxurious cabin, incl. Trail Fees (value up to $1,160)
* 2nd Prize – Marwe 610c Roller Skis (value $349)
* 3rd Prize – Yoko 9100 Poles (value $299)
* 4th Prize – Halti XC Race Suit Hemmo Set (value $269)
* 5th Prize – Skiwax.ca Racer Kickwax kit (value $235)
* 6th Prize – 2XU Long Sleeve Thermal Compression Top and Elite Socks (value $195)
* 7th Prize – One Way Snowbird Glasses (value $120)
* 8th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $100)
* 9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65)
* 10th Prize – Buff Headware (value $23)
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
Important dates & Information:
– 16 December 2012 – La Sgambeda (ITA), 42km FT, First FIS Marathon Cup of the season 2012-13 – 11am: start of the 42km La Sgambeda at the Cross Country stadium
More information about La Sgambeda:
Official website HERE.
Track information HERE.
Next FIS Marathon Cup: January 13 – Jizerská Padesatka (CZE), 50km, classic technique
More information: www.worldloppet.com
Visit also the official Worldlooppet Facebook Page HERE.
Never miss an info about the world of marathon skiing – follow @WLandFISMaCup
December 07, 2012 – Even though the winter has already arrived in many areas of Europe and the FIS Cross Country World Cup has kicked off with its first two competition weekends in Gällivare (SWE) and Kuusamo (FIN), the athletes of the FIS Marathon Cup still have some more days to prepare before the season also finally starts for them with the traditional opener La Sgambeda (42km FT) in Livigno.
Victim of last year’s lack of snow in mid-December, it does not seem to be the problem of this year. Being well covered in several layers of white, everything will be ready for the race to take place on December 16. Most of the best long distance skiers will be present at La Sgambeda to get back into long distance racing. Stars like Stanislav Rezac (CZE) and Stephanie Santer (ITA), both the reigning champions of the overall FIS Marathon Cup of last season – and both now united in the same team: Skinfit Racing Team – will participate in this race in which a 21km loop has to be skied twice. Surely both will again be THE ones to beat this season in order to obtain the overall FIS Marathon Cup crown at the end of the winter. “First of all, I will try to give my best in every race and to have fun – the results will come with that! But for sure, I would love to defend my title in the overall FIS Marathon Cup!” tells the newly-wed Santer, who married her longtime boyfriend and ex-team mate Florian Kostner (ITA), who will also be present at La Sgambeda. Kostner is eager to score his first FIS Marathon Cup victory, but his team mates from the Italian National Long Distance Team Marco Cattaneo, Simone Paredi and Fabio Santus will do everything they can, to get into the finish before him. The renamed Team Coop (ex Team Exspirit) will be present in full force at La Sgambeda with Oskar Svärd and Jimmie Johnsson (both SWE) on the men’s side and Seraina Boner (SUI) and Jenny Hansson (SWE) on the women’s side as their best ones. Also the Skinfit Racing Team will come with all its racers, not only with Rezac and Santer but also with Martin Koukal (CZE), Martin Bajcicak (SVK), Valentina Shevchenko (UKR) and Riitta-Liisa Roponen (FIN) as well as with some youngsters.
The big names of the classic technique will join the party in January when the FIS Marathon Cup will continue with the Jizerská Padesatka (CZE, 50km CT) on January 13. Then, the Aukland brothers Anders and Joergen (both NOR) as well as Jerry Ahrlin (SWE) and Thomas Alsgaard (NOR), Jörgen Brink (SWE) and Audun Laugaland (NOR) and Laila Kveli (NOR) and Susanne Nyström (SWE) will get into business and show their willingness to always be in front at all classic style races.
From the Czech Republic, the FIS Marathon Cup goes straight to Austria and its Dolomitenlauf on the 20th January before it gets to the host land of the 2013 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, Val di Fiemme (January 27). Together with Val di Fassa, the 70km CT race of Marcialonga is one of the most known long distance races in the world. Only some weeks before medals will be awarded to the best cross country skiers in the world, the fight will be tough to gain the winner’s crown of Marcialonga. If it wouldn’t be for the 67km, it would surely be for the last 3 steep km uphill to the finish line that this race is so prestigious. After it, there is no time for recovery as the FIS Marathon Cup continues the weekend after (3rd February) with the 50km FT König-Ludwig-Lauf in the beautiful setting of Oberammergau (GER), the home of the worldwide known passion play. As it was freezing cold at the König-Ludwig-Lauf, it was very windy for La Transjurassienne (FRA, 76km / 57km FT) last year, but despite that nature sometimes plays its way, this race is a mystic one, running through an incredible beautiful landscape, one “that travels across the hills and runs trough little villages” as FIS Marathon Cup champion Fabio Santus (ITA) describes it. On February 10 it’s time for it again! One week later, on February 17, the FIS Marathon Cup drives North, more precisely to Estonia and its biggest cross country skiing event, the Tartu Maraton (50km CT). Just two weeks before THE event in the long distance racing calendar, the 90km CT Vasaloppet, Tartu Maraton is widely used as a perfect preparation for this highlight. Therefore one will see all the champions of long distance racing coming to Estonia in order to prepare one of their biggest goals of the season: A victory in the Vasaloppet.
Especially for those in the FIS Marathon Cup, who are more specialists of the free skating technique, the run is not over yet since just one week after the Tartu Maraton, the American Birkebeiner (USA) makes its appearance in the FIS Marathon Cup calendar!!! Replacing the Finlandia Hiihto (FIN) in the FIS Marathon Cup calendar for the next years, the American “Birkie” will offer a most special race to all athletes since the classic and the skating technique race are taking place at the same time with courses right next to each other, making it possible to see close up the other competitors, however, skiing in a different technique. After the trip over the big lake, the athletes of the FIS Marathon Cup can finally take a little break before the big season final at the Engadin Skimarathon (42km FT) on March 10. The king and queen of the FIS Marathon Cup 2012-13 will be crowned at the end of the 42km long track which starts on the lake near Maloja and winds through the Engadin valley until the finish in Zuoz / S-chanf. As this season, the FIS Marathon Cup consists of six free technique races and only three classic ones, it will be interesting to see who the one who will be who steps on top of the podium in the end. Scoring top places in all skating races will definitely be the key to success!
Calendar of the FIS Marathon Cup & all other Worldloppet races
The FIS Marathon Cup calendar for the season 2012/13
– 16.12.2012 FT La Sgambeda 42 km ITA
– 13.01.2013 CT Jizerska Padesatka 50 km CZE
– 20.01.2013 FT Dolomitenlauf 60 km AUT
– 27.01.2013 CT Marcialonga 70 km ITA
– 03.02.2013 FT Koenig Ludwig Lauf 50 km GER
– 10.02.2013 FT La Transjurassienne 54/76 km FRA
– 17.02.2013 CT Tartu Maraton 63 km EST
– 23.02.2011 FT American Birkebeiner 50 km USA
– 10.03.2013 FT Engadin Skimarathon 42 km SUI
Other Worldloppet races:
– 03.02.2013 FT Sapporo International Ski Marathon 50km JPN
– 17.02.2013 FT Gatineau Loppet 51km CAN
– 23.02.2013 CT Finlandia Hiihto 50km FIN
– 02.03.2013 CT Bieg Piastow 50km POL
– 03.03.2013 CT Vasaloppet 90km SWE
– 16.03.2013 CT Birkebeinerrennet 54km NOR
– 16.03.2013 FT Demino Ski Marathon 50km RUS
TV coverage of the FIS marathon cup
As a first step to improve the visibility of the FIS Marathon Cup, it was decided that all FIS Marathon Cup races will produce a 3 minute news highlight which will be diffused by EBU / Eurovision to all its members on the same day as the race. Ready to hit the evening news in each country, the material will enable the TV stations to present the FIS Marathon Cup in its sports section of the news. The 3 minute video will also be available on the Worldloppet web page one day later.
Important dates & Information:
– 16 December 2012 – La Sgambeda (ITA), 42km FT, First FIS Marathon Cup of the season 2012-13
Worldloppet – The World of Marathon Skiing!!!
More information: www.worldloppet.com
Visit also the official Worldlooppet Facebook Page HERE.
Never miss an info about the world of marathon skiing – follow @WLandFISMaCup
November 20, 2012 (Gatineau, QC) – The Gatineau Loppet is pleased to announce that the first wave of its 55 km classic style race will be sanctioned by Cross-Country Canada (CCC), allowing Canadian and international long distance skiers to collect points for the Canadian Points List.
Last year, the CCC sanction was given to the 51 km freestyle but will be attributed to the 55 km classic race this year. “This change has been decided to promote the new linear [point-to-point] 55 km classic course starting at Lake Philippe that will be introduced in 2013 for the Gatineau Loppet’s 35th edition!” explains Yan Michaud, President of the Gatineau Loppet.
To highlight the importance and the seriousness of the elite program in the event, all skiers taking part in the 55 km classic race’s first wave must provide one of the following licenses: FIS license, a license issued by a national Federation (e.g. international competitors), a CCC Racing license or a Cross-Country Canada Supporting Member’s License (day license). The Gatineau Loppet will offer prizes to both the top three men and women of this new 55 km classic style race. First place will receive $1,200, second $600 and third $200.
For any questions concerning the licenses, prizes or elite program, please visit the Gatineau Loppet website at www.gatineauloppet.com .
November 08, 2012 (Canmore, AB) – In response to recent comments on reducing the distances of the Open 50 and 30 km mass start events at the Ski Nationals the Events Committee would first like to acknowledge the importance of the National Championships as a celebration of our domestic racing program. We would also like to recognize the hundreds of hours of volunteer time invested in making the Ski Nationals and our other sanctioned events a success every season.
The concept of change was first raised at the April High Performance Meeting in Canmore citing among other things the opportunity of junior and senior skiers in the event racing against one another with our World Cup team on the start line. Our top athletes and coaches at the meeting thought that this was an interesting idea and that the shorter distance would appeal to more skiers given the rigors of just coming off of the World Cup circuit and the prospects of reduced training time for those in Canada because of spring snow conditions.
From the Events Committee perspective it was felt that the concept could further the re-introduction of a Canadian Long Distance Championships during February. The lull in national racing focus during this period has been recognized as a challenge for domestic skiers after the January NorAm period and the Ski Nationals.
Recent comments suggest the tradition of the distance event in offering a unique challenge to participating skiers would be lost. The committee appreciated that for some this is a very important race, but in the same vein, an opportunity of increasing the profile and prestige of our larger loppet events and developing closer ties with these events is also important in forming strong ties within community. In fact a singular mid season distance event could enhance the profile of the distance champion.
The 30 /20 km combined distances resonated well with the Ski Nationals Organizing Committee in June, as the change represented a shorter day for volunteers after what all Ski National organizers feel is a very grueling week. Ending the on snow portion of the final day earlier would lead nicely into a more controlled Awards banquet in the early evening.
Over the next couple of weeks the Events Committee will review the recent on line comments provided by athletes and others and have a second look at the schedule for March 30 in consideration of typical snow and temperature conditions for this period, plans by the Organizing Committee and developments within the sport.
Please do not hesitate to email your comments directly to the Committee c/o ddyer@cccski.com.
November 08, 2012 – The TD Bank Marathon Series is comprised of five cross country skiing events across New England with distances ranging from 21k to 50k. Skiers of all skill levels are invited to participate; these events are fun for the elite racer as well as the recreational touring skier. Come and enjoy some of the finest skiing in New England!
Join in the TD Bank NENSA Marathon Series and test your endurance! Those skiers who participate in the timed class of 4 out of 5 events will receive a special Marathon Challenger Award! It doesn’t matter what distance you ski, just that you get out to enjoy these events. Awards will be presented at the Sugarloaf Ski Marathon in March. Hope to see you out there!
To see information about the five events in the series, click HERE.
October 24, 2012 – Here is the latest newsletter from Worldloppet and the FIS Marathon World Cup. Worldoppet recently attended the Forum Nordicum in Val di Fiemme, and the organization is primed for an exciting 2012/12 season. Read on for all of the details.
Forum Nordicum
Worldloppet present at the Forum Nordicum in Val di Fiemme (ITA) From 15 to 18 October, the annual gathering of all Nordic ski journalists, the FORUM NORDICUM, was held in Val di Fiemme, the host of the 2013 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. This meeting brings together Nordic ski journalists, both international federations, the FIS and the IBU, World Cup and other winter sport event organisers, ski companies and other companies, related to Nordic winter sports!
A perfect place to present Worldloppet and its races to a wider audience of interested ski journalists. Not to forget, that it is in Val di Fiemme, more precisely in Predazzo, with a view to the jumping hills, that Worldloppet has its head quarter! Val di Fiemme is also home to Marcialonga, one of the Worldloppet races which functions also as FIS Marathon Cup and which runs from Val di Fassa through to Val di Fiemme with its finish in Cavalese.
Worldloppet’s Secretary General, Angelo Corradini had the pleasure to inform the assembled journalists, that the interest in marathon skiing is still constantly growing.
Almost 126,000 skiers participated last season in Worldloppet races all over the world and the demand is still rising! The Marcialonga, Birkebeinerrennet and the Vasaloppet were all sold out in minutes!!! That the interest is not only high in Europe can be seen in the fact that also the American Birkebeiner is sold out already!!!
This race will be a FIS Marathon Cup this season and has therefore risen the interest of many skiers in the US and Canada to participate in this race with the best in the world doing the same course at the same time (only maybe not in the same time)! The US also still holds first place concerning passport holders (1,633)! They are followed by Germany (1,462) and Italy (1,078).
Last year, Worldloppet could congratulate 242 new Worldloppet Masters. They have completed 10 Worldloppet races in the long distance with at least one race oversees.
After the Worldloppet presentation it was time to give the floor to Gloria Trettel form Marcialonga, who then took a tour through 40 years of Marcialonga and informed about this year’s race. Marcialonga, since the biggest and most famous marathon ski race in Italy, is also very present at the new exhibition “Ski Past” which has just recently been opened in Trento, the capital of the region Trentino.
It is housed in an old street tunnel in Trento, which was converted into an exhibition area a couple of years back. The exhibition, the first one of its kind in Italy, looks on the past of skiing in general and in Italy especially, specially focusing on Nordic skiing. All guests of the Forum Nordicum including the Worldloppet delegation had the unique opportunity to have a sneak preview of the exhibition hence its official opening was scheduled for just a few days later.
One of the ski firms hosting an evening during the Forum Nordicum invited the Aukland brothers to come over and represent their brand. It was a unique opportunity for most of the journalists who normally are present at World Cup events and less at Worldloppet and FIS Marathon Cup races. It is not often that Worldloppet skiers are invited to these evening since normally the interest is higher in World Cup racers.
Another evidence that the interest in Worldloppet and long distance skiing is rising. A lot of interesting questions arose and both, Jörgen and Anders Aukland, showed that they are not only great skiers, but also into marathon skiing with their full heart and great ambassadors for long distance skiing, explaining the gathered journalists the specialty of long distance racing.
Some pictures of the Forum Nordicum can be found on Worldloppet’s Facebook page HERE.
Worldloppet Executive Committee meeting in Cavalese
At the occasion of the Forum Nordicum taking place in Val di Fiemme, Worldloppet’s Executive Committee held its autumn meeting in the same place, enjoying the possibility of taking part in the Forum Nordicum at the same time.
It was a perfect opportunity to spread the word about Worldloppet, market the idea of Worldloppet and marathon skiing and discussing races, development and projects with different persons and parties. The committee discussed several different points and the following was decided: Epp Paal from the Tartu Maraton was appointed new Race Coordinator. She will be present at many FIS Marathon Cup races as well as at several Worldloppet races throughout next season to support the organisers in ensuring the same level of performance (organisation, food stations, track preparation, starting order, result service etc.) at all races.
Epp will bring valuable experience on-site as she has gained solid knowledge working for the Tartu Maraton for more than ten years. In establishing her post, Worldloppet takes a step forward to ensure high quality races at all levels which is very important for the marketing of marathon skiing and the TV production on site. Alongside this topic, the relation and cooperation between Worldloppet and Ski Classics was discussed as well.
Since the Worldloppet Ski Magazine will not be printed this year as decided at the AGM, the online version will soon be available for downloading on the Worldloppet web page. Since this will only be an overview of the most important fact about each race, other possibilities for a magazine were discussed during the meeting. Further inquiries will be made for a printed format and will be presented during the next AGM to all member races.
Another important step for marathon skiing was that the Executive Committee decided to open the gates for more races and here for “exotic” races like the Fossevatn Ski Marathon on Iceland, the Marcha Blanca in Argentina or the Merino Muster in New Zealand. They are now invited to state their interest in joining Worldloppet and to come and present themselves at the next AGM (Annual General Meeting) which will take place in June 2013 in Hayward, USA, hosted by the American Birkebeiner.
New Worldloppet trailer & new Worldloppet web page
During the presentation of Worldloppet and its races, the new Worldloppet trailer had its world debut. It was exclusively shown to the gathered journalists and was very well received. The 3 minute film, put together by Marc Schauberger form the König-Ludwig-Lauf, shows what Worldloppet and its races is all about: About elite racers in the first starting row as well as about all the popular skiers without whom the race wouldn’t be the same! About the challenge against oneself, the skiing together with thousands of others and experiencing most incredible landscapes around the world.
The trailer will soon be available at the Worldloppet Facebook page and on the Worldloppet web page.
And this one will come to you soon in a complete new outfit!! The relaunch of the page is scheduled for before the season kicks off and will include several new features and a FIS Marathon Cup corner which is specially dedicated to the elite racers of the FIS Marathon Cup. All fans will wind it a great source of all kinds of information around their favourite athletes and also journalists will enjoy it for gathering information around this elite cup!
More information on the exact date of the launch will soon be diffused!
Important dates & information
– November 2012: Launch of the new Worldloppet web page
– December 16: La Sgambeda, 42km, FT, First FIS Marathon Cup of the season 2012/13
Worldloppet – The World of Marathon Skiing!!!
More information: www.worldloppet.com
Visit also the official Worldlooppet Facebook Page HERE.
Never miss an info about the world of marathon skiing. Follow us on Twitter HERE.
October 23, 2012 (Truckee, CA) – The Sierra Nevada is accustomed to long ski seasons. Point in fact, 2011 seemed like it would never end, with an XC ski race held on Fourth of July weekend at Auburn Ski Club on Donner Summit.
But early season October groomed skiing, while it does occur, is usually reserved for places like Fairbanks and West Yellowstone. Autumn 2012, however, brought such a significant late-October storm, it sent skiers around the region scurrying through the dust of their garages to find their sliding gear. Just a couple of days after a weekend of shorts and t-shirts, over a foot of snow fell in the higher elevations of the Sierra.
The site of next Spring’s Super Tour Finals Competition, Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Area, began grooming earlier than at any time in its 27-year history. Not enough snow to send out the big machines, but the use of a new snowmobile-equipped roller and comb system put down almost 10 kilometers of grooming in the Home Range area of the resort.
And it’s still snowing, with even a bit more forecasted for the next couple of days and possibly more next week. While this doesn’t assure a smooth and continuous transition to winter, it certainly makes for some serious excitement (and fun) on the trails around Truckee and Lake Tahoe. Other local XC ski resorts such as Auburn Ski Club and Royal Gorge also experienced significant early snowfall.
Tahoe Donner Cross Country will be one of the main hosts of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association 2013 SuperTour Finals and Distance National Championships, scheduled for April 2nd through April 11th, 2013.
October 17, 2012 – Sweden’s TV4 Group has bought the TV rights for all the platforms of the world´s leading long-distance skiing championship, Swix Ski Classics. The rights are for the two following seasons; 2012/2013 and 2013/2014. The TV4 Group has acquired the TV rights to five of the six long-distance races in Swix Ski Classics by IEC in Sports. For TV4 this means an expansion of the range of winter sports.
– The long-distance races in Swix Ski Classics has developed very positively in recent years with a high increase in the number of amateur skiers, especially from Sweden, participating side by side with the world’s elite. We want to reflect this growing Swedish and international change with a highly expanded television exposure, says Hans Pekkari, Sports Director in the TV4 Group.
– We are very pleased to start a collaboration with TV4. I am convinced that the cooperation raises interest for Swix Ski Classics even further in Sweden, says David Nilsson, CEO Ski Classics AB.
The long-distance skiing races will be broadcasted live together with a parallel broadcast on TV4 and TV4 Sport Xtra. The last hour of the race will be broadcasted on TV4 and TV4 Sport Xtra.
Swix New Title Sponsor of Ski Classics Series
Swix Ski Classics is the long distance ski championships, consisting of six of the most prestigious ski events in the world: Jizerská Padesatká in Czech Republic, Marcialonga in Italy, König Ludwig Lauf in Germany, Vasaloppet in Sweden, Birkebeinerrennet in Norway and the Swix Ski Classics Final in Sweden (venue to be announces shortly), all 50 km or more and open for professional as well as amateur skiers.
The interest in long distance skiing is growing continuously and many of the races in Europe are fully booked just a few days after the registration begins. Swix Ski Classics is broadcasted on TV in several countries and many professional skiers have transferred from World Cup skiing to long distance races.
– The Swix Ski Classics is an impressive initiative from the key players in cross country skiing to build an exciting new platform for long distance cross country racing. This will grow the cross country skiing industry and we want to be a part of this, states Ulf Bjerknes, CEO of Swix Sport Group.
Ski Classics is very pleased to start this new cooperation with Swix, a market leading company with over 60 years of experience in segments such as ski wax, ski poles and clothing.
– Swix is prestigious and traditional, but yet innovative and creative at the same time. This agreement will for sure develop Ski Classics and I can hardly wait to get started with this season’s first Swix Ski Classics race Jizerská Padesatká in the Czech Republic, says David Nilsson, CEO of Ski Classics AB.
Swix Ski Classics is an exciting cooperation, which will include professional teams as well as amateur skiers. It is definitely a big opportunity for the partners to reach the final consumers and to develop an interest and commitment to long distance skiing.
– We have worked hard in order to find the best suitable title sponsor, and with Swix we have succeeded. Swix Ski Classics has also several other solutions for sponsors, one of them is in the title, “Swix Ski Classics powered by [company name]”, David Nilsson says.
Swix Ski Classics 2013:
– Event 1: Jizerská Padesatká – Czech Republic – January 13th, 2013
– Event 2: Marcialonga – Italy – January, 27th, 2013
– Event 3: König Ludwig Lauf – Germany – February 3rd, 2013
– Event 4: Vasaloppet – Sweden – March 3rd, 2013
– Event 5: Birkebeinerrennet – Norway – March 16th, 2013
– Event 6: Swix Ski Classics Final – Sweden – March 23rd, 2013
March 28, 2012 – It was December 2011 – the first FIS Marathon Cup of the season was drawing closer and only two things were missing in most parts of central Europe: The snow and cold temperatures! Despite Livigno’s (ITA) relatively high altitude in the Alps, only approximately 3km of track could be prepared in the valley – not nearly enough for a 42km FIS Marathon Cup.
Therefore, the first competition had to be cancelled and 2011 ended without a FIS Marathon Cup, but with the beginning of 2012, things got into full swing.
Jizerská Padesatka
Even though the temperatures were not as cold as they could have been, enough snow was on the ground for the 50km Jizerská Padesatka race in classic style – and more came from above during the race, which made the conditions not the easiest one for racers, spectators and organisers alike. However, the first FIS Marathon Cup of the season 2011/12 was finally held and the athletes on the podium would be seen there many more times during the season. Surely, Stanislav Rezac (CZE) laid the foundation of his victory in the overall FIS Marathon Cup with this first place on home soil. Behind him, Jimmie Johnsson (SWE) and Joergen Aukland (NOR) completed the podium. On the women’s side it was Sara Svendsen who could gain the victory in front of Tatiana Manimaa (EST) and Jenny Hansson (SWE).
Dolomitenlauf
One week break and the FIS Marathon Cup really took of with no more free weekend for the following eight weeks! A hard programme for the athletes if they wanted to race each race, however, several decided to concentrate on certain races instead. The first of the eight competitions was the Dolomitenlauf (AUT), which was held, once again due to lack of snow in the valley, in Obertilliach, close to the boarder to Italy.
Perfect sunshine, relatively warm temperatures and difficult waxing conditions awaited the athletes for this first race in skating technique. As the, now shortened to 42km, track was partly running through the shade partly under the warm sun, it was really challenging to find the correct wax in order to be fast in all parts. It was the Italian Fabio Santus, who seemed to have had the best skis, however it was only a glimpse of the eye that parted him from the second Aliaksei Ivanou (BLR), who was followed by the German Tim Tscharnke, who was ordered “a fast long distance training session” by his coach and was therefore inscribed to the Dolomitenlauf. On the women’s side, it was Valentina Shevchenko (UKR) who won in front of Seraina Boner (SUI), who, at this moment, still had to fight with her back, and another Swiss, Seraina Gasparin, who missed the Mass Start at the Biathlon World Cup in Anterselva (ITA) and who therefore thought to take the opportunity to participate in a long distance race.
Marcialonga
One week later, it was time for the traditional and famous Marcialonga in Val di Fiemme, the host of the 2013 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships. Joergen Aukland (NOR), the winner of this prestigious 70km race in classic technique, showed, what is sometimes possible, even if you are still almost a minute behind the leaders after km 40!!! His brother Anders couldn’t resist his hard fighting brother in the end and finished second in front of Stanislav Rezac (CZE). On the women’s side it was the start for the first of several “Team Exspirit” podiums. Susanny Nyström (SWE) won in front of her team mates Jenny Hansson (SWE) and Seraina Boner (SUI).
König-Ludwig-Lauf
One week later, at the König-Ludwig-Lauf, cold temperatures had come over Middle-Europe and also had this 50km race, which passes the famous castle Linderhof (built by the Bavarian king Ludwig II between 1869 and 1886), firmly in the hand that even the perfect sunshine did not help much to heaten up the athletes during the race. In this “Bavarian frost chamber”, it was Stanislav Rezac (CZE) who resisted not only the cold but also his adversaries, Jerry Ahrlin (SWE) and Joergen Aukland (NOR) who became second and third. For the ladies, the podium was the same as in the Marcialonga: Nyström (SWE) in front of Hansson (SWE) and Boner (SUI).
La Transjurassienne
The weekend after, it was still cold, but it was not the cold which let the racers suffer but the strong wind which made the organisers of the 76km skating race La Transjurassienne decide to cut the part into Switzerland since it was the part where the wind blew the hardest….some athletes even described skiing towards Bois d’Amont as to think that they stood still even though they knew they were moving. With a bid smile on his face and later with a big bell around his neck, it was Alikasei Ivanou (BLR) who won this, despite the strong wind, wonderful race through the French Jura Mountains in front of Sergio Bonaldi (ITA) and Martin Koukal (CZE). On the women’s side it was Valentina Shevchenko (UKR) who won in a very impressive manner the race over 54km, with over 6 minutes advantage over Stephanie Santer (ITA) and Tatiana Manimaa (EST).
Tartu Maraton
The week after, it was time to head up North, to Tartu and the 63km long Tartu Maraton, skied in classic technique. Only two weeks away from the legendary Vasaloppet – the main goal of the season for a lot of racers, it was Jörgen Brink who showed that he got in form for the big event. The Swede won in front of Daniel Richardsson (SWE), who had just come to Tartu the night before the race, after a long voyage from the Cross Country World Cup in Sklarska Poreba (POL), and Jimmie Johnsson (SWE). On the girl’s side, for the third time in this winter, it was the same Podium: Susanne Nyström (SWE) wins in front of Jenny Hansson (SWE) and Seraina Boner (SUI).
Finlandia Hiihto
Further up North, it was time for the 50km Finlandia Hiihto (classic technique), which was, very surprisingly – also for himself – won by Martin Koukal (CZE), who is more known to be a specialist in the skating technique. In an impressive finish he put the two Italians Sergio Bonaldi and Marco Cattaneo to the places two and three. On the women’s side it was Valentina Shevchenko (UKR) who showed that she is also fast in classic races. Tatiana Manimaa (EST) got second and Stephanie Santer (ITA) third.
Vasaloppet
Then, it was time for the world famous Vasaloppet. Petter Northug Jr. should have started but did not due to sickness. However, it seemed that the appearance of the sister and brother of the Duchess of Cambridge, Pippa and James Middleton, made more headlines than the actual winner of the 88th edition of this famous 90km long race in classic technique. However, it was Jörgen Brink (SWE), who could win this prestigious event – and that already for the third consecutive time and this year in a new record time!!! In an
incredible finish sprint he could claim the victory in front of Daniel Tynell (SWE) and Stanislav Rezac (CZE).
Engadin Skimarathon
Only one week later, the FIS Marathon Cup got back to central Europe for its last skating race – the Engadin Skimarathon! Great conditions made the track very fast that the organisers already thought about a new record time, but the athletes decided against. However, it was the young Swiss Roman Furger who could put himself in front of Curdin Perl (SUI), who had arrived during the night before the race, directly from the Cross Country World Cup in Oslo (NOR). Third on the podium was, after an impressive finish sprint, the Italian Cristian Zorzi. On the women’s side, it was the French World Cup racer Anouk Faivre-Pikon, who claimed the victory in front of Seraina Boner (SUI) and Natascia Leonardi Cortesi (SUI).
Birkebeinerrennet
Hosting the final of the FIS Marathon Cup, the traditional Birkebeinerrennet with its special rule that each racer has to carry a 3.5kg backpack filled with certain things, remembering the baby Haakon Haakonsen, the future king of Norway, which was rescued by two Birkebeiner men on skis from those who wanted to kill him. This year, it was Anders Aukland (NOR) who could win this last stop of the FIS Marathon Cup, in front of two fellow countrymen: Roger Aa Djupvik and Espen Harald Bjerke.
After 10 races, three in skating technique and seven in classic style, the season 2011/12 is concluded. The winner of the overall FIS Marathon Cup on the men’s side was certain already for some time before the final, however, on the women’s side, the fight went on until the very last race. Stanislav Rezac (CZE) secured the victory on the men’s side with 405 points whereas Stephanie Santer (ITA) could claim the victory in her first FIS Marathon Cup season with 511 points!
Worldloppet: its Races and the 2011/12 Season
However, the Worldloppet winter 2011/12 did not only consist of FIS Marathon Cup races! Many of the places where a FIS Marathon Cup race took place held also other races, shorter ones or in a different technique, which belong to the Worldloppet circuit and for which Worldloppet passport holders can get a stamp in order to become a “Master” after ten fulfilled races – ten different of course and one in each continent of course! However, there are four races which do not have FIS Marathon Cup races and these are The
Kangaroo Hoppet (AUS), which takes place in August as it is winter in Australia at that time, the Gatineau Loppet in Canada which is followed by the American Birkebeiner (USA) – a race which will become a FIS Marathon Cup race next season! Last but not least, it’s the Bieg Piastow, which is, as the three others, a member of the Worldloppet circuit!
All Worldloppet races could be held in great conditions and growing numbers of participants in each race, anywhere in the world, shows the trend of the last years. Healthy living, including not only healthy food but also outdoor activities, is more popular as ever before and brings more and more people onto the skis. High numbers of older participants also show that this kind of life makes you also fit up into high age and is equally a huge motivation for others to join in in the world of marathon skiing!
2012/13 FIS Marathon Cup Calendar
– 16.12.12 – LA SGAMBEDA – 42km FT
– 13.01.13 – JIZERSKÁ PADESATKA – 50km CT
– 20.01.13 – DOLOMITENLAUF – 60km FT
– 27.01.13 – MARCIALONGA – 70km CT
– 03.02.13 – KÖNIG LUDWIG LAUF – 50km CT
– 10.02.13 – LA TRANSJURASSIENE – 76km FT
– 17.02.13 – TARTU MARATON – 63km CT
– 23.02.13 – AMERICAN BIRKEBEINER – 50km FT
– 10.03.13 – ENGADIN SKIMARATHON – 42km FT
News from Worldloppet & the World of Marathon Skiing
Not only the numbers of participants in Worldloppet races is growing but also the number of races in the world. And they all would like to become a part of Worldloppet and the world of marathon skiing. Worldloppet is of course very happy about this development, as it shows that the continuous work around the world of marathon skiing is paying off.
The following races have announced their interest: Svalbard (Spitsbergen) Marathon (NOR), Fossavatn (ISL), Marca Beret (ESP), Marca Blanka (ARG) and the Arctic Circle Race (GRL).
The executive board of the Worldloppet had come together in Rybinsk (RUS) on the occasion to visit the Demino Skimarathon (March 18), taking place on the Cross Country World Cup venue, which also has announced its wish to become a member of the Worldloppet family. The calendar for the next season was discussed and finalised for the FIS Marathon Cup. The next meeting will be the AGM (Annual General Meeting) held in Tartu (EST) in June where not only the next season but also other important steps for Worldloppet and the world of marathon skiing will be discussed and be voted for.
Exact numbers of passport holder (new & old) will be given out later this spring as many applications are still coming in April. Detailed information on the participant rates of each race and in total will be distributed at the same time.
Important Dates & Information
– Next Worldloppet race: August 25, Kangaroo Hoppet (AUS), 42km skating technique
– Worldloppet AGM: June 14-17, Tartu (EST)
More information: www.worldloppet.com
Visit also the official Worldlooppet Facebook Page HERE.
February 20, 2012 (Toronto, ON) – We are pleased to announce the standings for the SkiTrax Fantasy FIS Marathon Cup 2011/12 International Contest after the the 76km FT La Transjurassienne in France. The inaugural FIS Marathon Cup contest is proving to be exciting, with leads swapping weekly and no clear leader pulling away. It’s still anyone’s competition! Team legrandbo has assumed the lead with 428 points and is followed by anty ski in second with 418 points. Team Broken Poles is in third place with 399 points. Note the maximum number of available points after La Transjurassienne is 571.
View the full contest standings after La Transjurassienne HERE.
Stay tuned for contest standings after the next event on the FIS Marathon Cup calendar, the 63km Tartu Maraton in Estonia, held this past weekend. And note you may be eligible for bonus points from the Gatineau Loppet held this weekend as well.
FIS Fantasy Marathon Cup Prizes
* 1st Prize – OneWay Premio 10 WCup Skis, Diamond Storm Premio 10 Poles, SNS Premio Pilot Bindings. (value $1,350) * 2nd Prize – Nipika 4-nights for 2 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,160)
* 3rd Prize – Alpina ESK Ski Boots (value $449) * 4th Prize–Halti XC Race Suit Hemmo Set (value $269) * 5th Prize – Fischer RCS QF poles (value $225) * 6th Prize – Cross Country Canada e-Store Gift Certificate (value $200) * 7th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $150) * 8th Prize – Rottefella Xcelerator Skate/Classic Bindings (value $120) * 9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) * 10th Prize – Buff Headware (value $40)
Thanks to all of our great sponsors, including One Way, Nipika, Alpina, Halti, Fischer, Cross Country Canada, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Rottefella, Auclair, and Buff.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
June 22, 2011 (Engadin, Switzerland) – The Worldloppet Association was founded in 1978 and brings together the most important popular Cross-Country skiing races in the world. It currently includes 15 races on four continents. In addition to the Engadin Ski Marathon, there are more races such as Vasaloppet, Birkebeiner or Marcialonga.
The aim of the annual meetings, which take place annually at different destinations, is to maintain a high standard of the races in terms of organization and service. The Engadin meeting took place from June 16-19, and enhanced cooperation between organizing committees. Participants also discussed future development of the Worldloppet.
“The Worldloppet meeting in Engadin was very successful and fruitful,” says Ivo Damaso, OC president of the host Engadine Ski Marathon. The participants agreed that Worldloppet must tackle challenges of popular skiing with a new common strategy in order to increase importance of Worldloppet races as well as the FIS Marathon Cup. The discussion among the delegates showed that new challenges such as “new media” must be actively addressed. Damaso therefore spoke of a new era and a forthcoming period of change. He stressed it is important to strengthen the position of the Association, to benefit from synergies of the members. As a result Worldloppet wants to become an umbrella of popular Cross-Country skiing.
The participants agreed that the current situation with two main series, FIS Marathon Cup and Ski Classics, is unsatisfactory where five out of six races in Ski Classics are already in the FIS Marathon Cup schedule. The dual classification leads to marketing problems and confusion. Worldloppet put its effort to merge the series in one and benefit from its attractiveness.
The assembly was also informed that the Executive Committee of Worldloppet did not receive, besides Angello Corradini, another candidacy before the election of the Secretary General. Corradini has been in office since 2004 and is also Chief of the OC of the Nordic World Ski Championships Val di Fiemme 2013.
June 12, 2013 (Hayward, WI) – On June 13-16, the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation will host delegates from all 16 nations of the Worldloppet Ski Federation at the Worldloppet Annual General Meeting in Hayward/Cable, Wisconsin. The American Birkebeiner will host both meetings and times to socialize at various venues in Hayward and Cable, Wisconsin, including Lakewoods Resort and the Lumberjack Village.
