The Birkebeiner: America’s Ski Marathon

Abstract

is the largest cross country ski race in North America and one of the five largest in the world. Covering more than 30 miles, it attracts 10,000-plus participants annually from around the U.S. and world. My goal was to research: Race founder Tony Wise, Race inception in 1973, with 54 skiers, Year by year highlights through 2024, Growth and challenges, Race day operations, Publish a book covering the first 50 races.