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Important Information

Message from the President

canadianbirkie.com

Whether a seasoned or first-time Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival skier or volunteer, you realize how fortunate we are to access the impressive natural setting and trails of the Cooking

Lake - Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, home of the Birkie. And we're here for an extended run. This past year, the Canadian Birkebeiner Society and Alberta Environment and Parks renewed an existing agreement that assures use of the Provincial Recreational Area (PRA) as a Birkie venue at least until 2020.

The spirit of cooperation between the Birkebeiner Society and Parks employees extends well beyond the letter of the agreement. An outstanding example of provincial employees' willingness to go the extra mile occurred a year ago when an unexpected major snowfall early on race day threatened the Birkie. Only the extraordinary commitment and dedication of Parks staff, who re-set trails, allowed the races to proceed, albeit with some route modifications.

It is not a one-way street (or trail). The Canadian Birkebeiner Society also contributes toward making the Cooking Lake – Blackfoot PRA what it is. For example, every fall, Birkie volunteers help clear debris and overhanging branches along the ski trails. Over the years, the Society

has also invested significantly in equipment used to groom and set tracks on the trails. Parks employees operate that equipment not only on race day but throughout winter, allowing skiers (whether Birkie participants or not) to benefit from well-groomed trails.

Birkie co-operation with other government agencies extends to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (site of the long starts), Elk Island National Park, the County of Strathcona, and City of Edmonton, as well as other municipalities within the region. The 31-kilometre Birkie event draws its name from the Beaver Hills Initiative, through which more than 30 organizations have dedicated themselves to preserving and celebrating the unique ecosystems near and within the Cooking Lake - Blackfoot area.

This great stage, plus an enthusiastic cast – skiers, volunteers, sponsors, staff and public officials – combine to produce the 2016 Birkie: The Greatest Adventure on Snow!

Enjoy the wonderful surroundings and great camaraderie of the Birkie!

Nordahl FlakstadPresident of the Canadian Birkebeiner Society

thWelcome to the 28 running of the Canadian Birkebeiner. We anticipate a great Birkie and congratulate you for joining the adventure and accepting the challenge. Here are a few notes to remember for the big day.

1. Classical Technique Only in Classic Races. Skating is NOT allowed in the classic events - no gliding on herringbone; no sideways pushing except on corners (up to five pushes max. per corner).

2. Keep Right. The left lane is for passing only. Listen for the call, “Track”, and get out of the way safely and quickly.

3. Ears Alert. For safety, do not ski with headphones.

4. Food Station Etiquette. In fairness to skiers passing through, don't stop in the track; step well to the side.

5. Stay on Your Course. Changing events during the race is not allowed. Anyone not passing all checkpoints on their registered course will be a DNF or DSQ.

6. Medical Support. If you experience a health concern, seek assistance. Food Stations and Finish Line have First Aid Teams and Course Patrollers have radios. Please stick a medical label on the back of your bib if applicable.

7. Park Right. There is no parking at the Finish Stadium. Those skiing shorter distances park at the Bethel Transit Station in Sherwood Park. See instructions on page 11. Allow plenty of time. Enjoy the bus ride and visit with other skiers.

8. Cold Temperatures. Cold weather policies are in place. Starts may be delayed and/or courses modified, but

cancellations are very rare. Prepare properly: dress in layers; have adequate hand, head and neck protection (carry extras); and keep well-hydrated and well-fueled.

9. Warm Temperatures. Drink lots of water or sports drink at food stations. Peel layers as necessary.

BE ALERT, BE SAFE…

Rental Timing Chip Instructions

1. In your race package you will receive a paper bib with your race number and a Velcro neoprene timing chip. Ensure that the timing chip number matches the chip number on the label affixed to the back of your bib.

2. Make sure you have your timing chip, bib and clean, tagged personal clothing bag on race day.

3. Attach your timing chip securely to either ankle (and only your ankle) using the Velcro strap. This chip will be the only way your final finishing time will be recorded.

4. At the Finish Line a volunteer will collect your chip. Please be sure that it is retrieved from you. There is a $40 charge to you if your chip is not collected, so it is very important for you to return your chip immediately after your race. Thank You.

Have a wonderful Birkie Day!

Birkie Features a Great Stage and Great Cast

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Your Itinerary

February 13 - Starting at Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (UCHV) 55 km Torskeklubben Birkebeiner with Pack (BK) 55 km Spencer Environmental Birkie Lite (BL)

February 12 - Opening Ceremonies and Nordic Fair

Please join us for the Opening Ceremonies of the 28th Canadian Birkie at 11:45 am on Friday, February 12th at the Agora (Strathcona Community Centre, 401 Festival Lane). The Opening Ceremonies will be followed immediately by the Nordic Fair (noon - 8 pm). Pick up your race package, visit our sponsors’ and partners’ booths, pick up a Birkie souvenir or two, get the latest waxing advice and watch waxing demos, pre-weigh your pack and enjoy a sample of beer as you catch up with ski friends. You must pick up your race package at the Nordic Fair.

6:45 am* Drive to UCHV (50km E of Edmonton on Hwy 16)7:45 am Arrive UCHV parking lot – follow directions of Parking Marshals7:50 am 5-minute walk to Red Barn for coffee & muffins8:00 am Wax skis and walk to Start Line on Goose Lake8:15 am Test wax, weigh your 5.5 kg backpack (for BK) 8:30 am Drop off tagged clothing bag at Clothing Truck on Goose Lake (note: bring own bag)8:45 am Place yourself on one of the start lanes based on your estimated skiing time (self-seeding – start with folks of similar ability please!)8:50 am Official Program at Start Line for Wave 19:00 am Start of Wave 1 (BK, BL, BT) Start of Wave 2 (BK, BL, BT)

Start of Wave 3 (BK, BL, BT)

Station (Broadview Rd., Sherwood Park)

Station (Broadview Rd., Sherwood Park)

Starting at Waskehegan Staging Area: 2.5 or 4 km Ole's Tour 8:45 am* Leave Edmonton to drive to Bethel Transit

9:05 am Arrive Bethel Transit Station – follow directions of Parking Marshals 9:15 am Bus to Start /Finish area (see pg. 11) 9:45 am Arrive Waskehegan Stadium and wax skis 10:00 am Festival Tent for coffee/hot chocolate10:30 am Drop off tagged clothing bag at Clothing Tent in Stadium (note: bring own bag)10:35 am Walk to Start Line on Field – plan up to 10 minutes to walk - longer with little people10:50 am Move to warm up. Fast rabbits at the front, turtles and pulks at the back please.10:55 am Official Program at Start Line11:00 am Start of Ole's Tour – you decide 2.5 km or 4 km distance at the Start Line or the junction. No times at Finish Line.

13 km JV Driver Mini Birkie11:15 am* Leave Edmonton to drive to Bethel Transit

11:35 am Arrive Bethel Transit Station – follow directions of Parking Marshals11:45 am Bus to Start/Finish area (see pg. 11) 12:15 pm Arrive Waskehegan Stadium, wax skis and enjoy coffee/hot chocolate and muffins in Festival Tent12:50 pm Drop off tagged clothing bag at Clothing Tent in Stadium (note: bring own bag)1:00 pm 10 minute walk to Start Line on Field 1:10 pm Wax as needed and warm up1:15 pm Place yourself in one of 14 lanes based on your estimated skiing time (self-seeding – start

with folks of similar ability please!) 1:25 pm Official Program at Start Line1:30 pm Start of 13 km Mini Birkie

* All time estimates to UCHV or Bethel Transit Station parking are based on a ‘home’ departure from the centre of Edmonton. Please adjust your actual departure time accordingly.

All skiers and spectators must see pg. 11 for important information re: parking and shuttle buses.

Wave Starts: The two 55 km classic events and the 31 km classic event will involve wave starts this year for the first time. The prep times below are for Wave 1 starts only. Wave 2 skiers add 15 minutes to each time given below and Wave 3 skiers add 30 minutes to each time provided. To select the appropriate wave for you, see canadianbirkie.com/register-birkie.

canadianbirkie.com

31 km Beaver Hills Tour (BT)

40 km Birkie Skate(assumes waxing was done prior to travel to site)8:30 am* Drive to UCHV (50km E of Edmonton on Hwy 16)9:30 am Arrive UCHV parking lot – follow directions of Parking Marshals9:35 am 5-minute walk to Red Barn for coffee & muffins9:45 am Walk to Start area on Goose Lake and warm up10:10 am Drop off tagged clothing bag at Clothing Truck on Goose Lake (note: bring own bag)10:15 am Place yourself on one of the start lanes based on your estimated skiing time (self-seeding – start with folks of similar ability please!)10:20 am Official Program at Start Line10:30 am Start of 40 km Birkie Skate

9:15 am 9:30 am

The Birkie Society has joined the vast majority of event organizers by posting the program guide online as the primary delivery method. Individual print copies will not be available, except in special cases (a limited number of copies will be available to consult at the Nordic Fair). This will help reduce paper usage (for a greener Birkie) and help keep the registration fees low by saving printing costs. Of course you can selectively print anything from the online guide you think you really need in hand.

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Online Program Guide & Print Info Page

canadianbirkie.com

Th

e Marketer

jolenedesign@tourismsolutions.ca

Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival Program

www.TourismSolu�ons.ca

780.632.6191

See more online Guides & Brochures at

Proud publisher of the print & online

Location: Strathcona Community Centre, Agora Room, 401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park.

Time: Doors at 6 pm; dinner at 7.Join us for this wonderful celebration; fantastic buffet dinner and a program full of Birkie spirit, plus tons of awesome draw prizes. See pg. 21 for more information.

Purchase tickets to the Feast when you register on-line for your Birkie events. If you forgot to do this, you can do it now through Wednesday, February 10th, 2016 at canadianbirkie.com

Check out fun things to do in the afternoon prior to the Vikings' Feast to make a day of it (see Millennium Place Birkie Day and World Cup Nordic Skiing Viewing on pg. 21).

Vikings' Feast

LAMBERTIn t e l l ec tua l • P rope r ty • Law

www.lambertlaw.ca

#200 10328 - 81 Avenue, Edmonton, AB

780-448-0606

Wishes all participants anenjoyable day of outdooractivity, and thanks all

volunteers for this excellent event.

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With the exception noted above (UCHV bus to Waskehegan) all others MUST PARK at Bethel Transit Station (Broadview Rd., Sherwood Park; see Venue Map on p. 8). Watch for road signs. Parking is abundant and there is a large, indoor, heated shelter complete with washrooms. In good road conditions, the bus ride will take 30 minutes from the Station to Waskehegan, so please plan accordingly (get there early to be sure to arrive at your start line on time). Free shuttle buses run continuously between Bethel Transit Station and Waskehegan from 8:30 am until 5:30 pm. In the morning, during peak times related to short starts, buses will leave the Bethel Transit Station when they are full (about every 10-15 minutes). Note: Team buses may park at Waskehegan (follow directions of Parking Controllers).

No Parking at StadiumThere is no parking for skiers or spectators at Waskehegan, and no parking on Range Road 210. Please follow the directions of the volunteer Parking Controllers and police. Please be nice to the parking officials; they are all volunteers and have feelings too! If you are picking up a skier, park at the Bethel Transit Station, take the free shuttle to the Stadium, locate your buddy, and return with the shuttle to your vehicle at Bethel Transit Station.

Location

Parking and Shuttle Buses

13 km and 2.5 km Skiers and Spectators at the Finish Line

The 55 and 31 km Classic and 40 km Skate, long course events start at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (east of Edmonton, just east of Elk Island National Park). They all end at the Waskehegan Staging Area in the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. Give yourself plenty of time to get your start, especially because of early morning todarkness, and possible race-day snow or poor road conditions. The short events all start and finish at the Waskehegan Staging Area in the Provincial Recreation Area. Study the Venues Map on page .8

Parking is a challenge with so many skiers and spectators. To ensure that you do not miss your start time, plan to arrive at the appropriate parking area 75 minutes (long starts) to 120 minutes (short starts) before your start time. Don’t leave your parking lot without your bib on your chest/leg and chip on your ankle!

55, 40 and 31 km Skiers55, 40 and 31 km skiers MUST park or be dropped off at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (UCHV) off Highway 16. Car pool please, as parking is limited. There will be a shuttle bus from the host hotel Holiday Inn (9 Premier Way) to UCHV departing at 7:00 am. To ride, you must sign up at the Birkie Booth at the Nordic Fair.

You will be shuttled from the Finish Line / Stadium (Waskehegan) back to the UCHV to pick up your vehicle. Shuttles will run all afternoon.

NEW!!! UCHV to Waskehegan Morning Bus: A bus will be provided for spectators and Ole’s Tour participants from UCHV to Waskehegan

Getting There...

(Finish Line, Start of Short Courses). Catch the bus outside the Red Barn at 9:50 am (after Classic long starts but before the Skate). All other spectators going to the Finish Line must park at Bethel Transit Station (Broadview Rd., Sherwood Park; see Venue Map on page ) and catch a shuttle bus to/from Waskehegan.8

canadianbirkie.com

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Once You’re There...

A wax room and tables will be provided at the Strathcona Community thCentre from noon - 8 pm on February 12 for travelling participants.

Bring your own waxing equipment and supplies and please clean up after yourself. On Birkie Day come prepared to wax your own skis and bring extra wax, a cork and a scraper with you. Look for the big wax thermometer near the barn (long start) or picnic shelter (short start). SWIX and Track ‘n Trail will be at both long and short starts and Totem at short starts to provide waxing advice, but line-ups can be long. Poles and wax kits will be available at Food/Aid Stations along the course, and some Course Patrollers may have wax. Each skier is responsible for his or her own wax and waxing.

Skier Pack Weigh-in

Warm-up Facilities

Washrooms

Dress for the Weather

Waxing

Clothing Drop-off & Pick-up

Check the weather forecasts at http://canadianbirkie.com/weather-report and the Birkie home page and social media for any announcements such as start time delays related to weather.

Remember, the weather can change quickly. Dress in layers, avoid cotton if possible and include wind protection. Have adequate hand, head and neck protection and carry extras on cold days (e.g., to layer on or in case they get wet and freeze up). Follow the advice of Course Patrollers, Medical Officials or Parks Staff if they notice signs of frostbite or hypothermia. They do have the authority to pull you from the event if they deem it is unsafe for you to continue.

You MUST bring your own sports bag, duffel bag or backpack in which to keep your warm clothing and other items for your use after the race. In your race package you will find a tag and cable (zip) tie to attach the tag to your clothing bag. It is very important to have dry, warm clothes to put on at the Finish. Leave nothing at UCHV; put extra clothing in your vehicle.

Clearly mark your BIB NUMBER on your tag, attach it to your bag well and leave it at the Clothing Trucks at the UCHV (for long starts), or at the Waskehegan Clothing Tent for the short events. It is also a good idea to label your bag and personal items with your name and phone number. Your gear is transported to the Finish and put in a heated and staffed Clothing Tent for pickup following your finish. The Canadian Birkebeiner Society is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items.

Snacks and coffee are in the Red Barn which is a heated facility located at the south end of the parking lot. Seating will be very limited in the barn, so please put your boots on in your vehicle. There are heated change trailers, and a large heated Festival Tent at the Finish.

Pack weigh-in for 55 km Birkebeiner class skiers takes place near the Start Line at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (UCHV). Give yourself time to get your pack weighed and checked off. Packs for Birkebeiner class skiers must weigh a minimum of 5.5 kilograms at both the Start and Finish of the event. Anything can be used for weight. Please weigh your pack at home or at the Nordic Fair to avoid problems at the Start. Packs must be of the over-the-shoulder type - fanny packs or weight vests do NOT qualify!

There will be no use of the indoor washrooms at the UCHV, but there will be plenty of outdoor porta-potties in appropriate locations. The same applies to the permanent outdoor toilets which will be closed at the Waskehegan Staging Area for the Short Starts and the Finish. There are lots of porta-potties on site.

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Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival

Short Courses

Course Details

Event Courses

Bailing Out

Course RecordsBK 55 Male 3:01

BK 55 Female 3:45

BL 55 Male 2:37

BL 55 Female 3:05

31 BT Male 1:27

31 BT Female 1:39

13 MB Male 40:25

13 MB Female 45:09

Station Closing Times BK & BL 55 Km Station Name Km from Start Closing TimeUkrainian Cultural Heritage Village 0.0 9:30 amWhitetail (Drink only) 6.5 10:40 amRoundup 11.1 11:20 amWapiti 16.5 12:10 amWinter 19.7 12:40 pm

stElk Push 1 time 25.9 1:10 pm Islet Lake 31.6 2:00 pm

ndElk Push 2 time 36.3 2:40 pmWanisan 42.6 3:30 pmBoundary 47.1 4:10 pmBooster 50.2 4:35 pmFinish Line 55.0 5:30 pm

Cut-off Times

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Station Closing Times MB 13 KmStation Name Km from Start Closing TimeWaskehegan Staging Area Start Field 0.0 1:30 pmLast Chance (Meadow) 7.4 2:45 pmFinish Line

13.0

5:00 pm

Station Closing Times BT 31 Km Station Name Km from Start Closing TimeUkrainian Cultural Heritage Village 0.0 9:30 am

10:40 amRoundup Whitetail (Drink only)

11.1 6.5 11:20 am

Wapiti 16.5 12:10 amWinter 19.7 12:40 pmLast Chance (Meadow) 24.4 1:30 pmFinish Line 31.0 2:45 pm

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If you cannot continue, stop at any Food/Aid Station and get a shuttle ride to Waskehegan (Stadium). Inform the shuttle driver that you wish to withdraw and give the driver your bib and timing chip. You will not get a time on the results list; you will be listed as a DNF (Did Not Finish) in your category.

The courses follow gently rolling aspen parkland terrain. Most of the trail is tree-sheltered. Some lake crossings and open areas may be subject to wind and drifting. Controllers/Patrollers are stationed along the course. Please use care on downhill sections. All trails not on course are closed off. Please do not ski on closed-off sections; doing so could result in disqualification.

55 km course distances are marked with green signs and flags, the 31 km course is marked with blue signs and flags, and the 40 km course is marked with red signs and flags. The courses all start at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. The classic courses split and merge a few times. Junctions are well-flagged. Take care to stay on your course.

The 13 km course joins the 31 km course after the Last Chance Food Station, but splits off again just before the Finish Line. Follow the red flags.

The 2.5 km and 4 km courses are well-flagged throughout. Skiers in these events, and these events only, are welcome to change courses between these two distances, where the courses diverge.

*SKIIN’ GREEN WITH PURPLE, BLUE AND RED

In our efforts to reduce, reuse and recycle, we are asking skiers who have one or more purple, blue or red cloth bibs sitting at home to please bring them to the Nordic Fair or at least commit to re-using one you already have. If we don’t have to give you a new replacement cloth bib this year, we’ll have a special Birkie gift for you. Thanks for helping us make the Birkie the most sustainable event possible.

Station closing times for the course are listed here and posted at the Food/Aid Stations. If you have not reached a Food/Aid Station by the stated cut-off time you will not be permitted to continue, and will be transported to the Finish Line. The Official Course Sweep is authorized to remove slower skiers from the event. We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring the safety of all.

Station Closing Times 40 Km SkateStation Name Km from Start Closing TimeStart 0 10:30 am

stBlackfoot 1 time 8.0 11:50 amFaraway 14.7 12:55 pm

ndBlackfoot 2 time 19.7 1:40 pm Running Dog 27.2 2:55 pmDynamite Lodge 33.8 4:00 pmFinish Line 40.0 5:00 pm

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Bib Colours

Light red paper

Light green paper

Dark red paper

White paper

Light blue paper

Yellow paper

Orange cloth

Yellow cloth (pin paper # over)

Purple cloth (pin paper # over)

Red cloth (pin paper # over)

55 km Torskeklubben Birkebeiner

55 km Spencer Environmental Birkie Lite

31 km Beaver Hills Tour

40 km Birkie Skate

13 km JV Driver Mini-Birkie

2.5/4 km Ole’s Tour

Ski for Light: visually impaired skiers

Birkebeiner & Birkie Lite previous year winners

*Skied 10 or more Canadian Birkebeiners

*Skied all 27 previous Canadian Birkebeiners

*Skied 20 or more Canadian Birkebeiners Blue cloth (pin paper # over)

canadianbirkie.com16

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10148 - 82 Ave, Edmonton, ABPh: 780-432-1707

(Toll Free: 1-888-432-1707)

Take it Outside

shop.trackntrail.ca

Food /Aid Stations

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Food/Aid Stations are located frequently along the course, at distances varying from 3.2 km to 11 km apart. Check out the distances between stations so you plan your ski day to fit your needs. Stations offer hot and cold drinks, fruit and other refreshments. All have limited ski repair kits, waxing kits and replacement poles. Move off of the track if you stop at a Food/Aid Station. Virtually all of our waste is now compostable or recyclable.

Please use the colour-coded compostable waste (brown) and recycling (blue) bag containers provided.

At Kilometre Two (at the end of Goose Lake) and at some Food/Aid Stations, there will be a pole replacement station. You MUST return any borrowed poles to the Finish Line Officials.

Birkie Day Volunteers There are approximately 600 volunteers helping you enjoy

your Birkie! Most volunteers wear a maroon “volunteer” bib. Officials, chiefs and the photography crew will also have an

orange arm band to identify them on Birkie day.

Please thank the volunteers during the day – We couldn't run the

Birkie without their big hearts!

is proud to promote Canada’s Premier Ski Event!

www.GoEastofEdmonton.com

Watch for the online travel guide coming soon!

Emergency First Aid personnel will have volunteer bibs with a Star of Life on them or on the uniform of their respective ambulance service. Radio contact is maintained with all Food/Aid Stations and some Course Patrollers. Evacuation skidoos with toboggans or vehicles are at all Food/Aid Stations and we have quick access to ambulance (both ground and helicopter). Aid can be secured by calling (780) 922-3283 over Birkie day; provide the most recent KM sign or Food Station passed, if possible.

Medical AidThe Star of Life identifies ofFirst Aid volunteers

Skiers should stick a label with any health conditions or medications on the back side of their bib so it is accessible to Medical Staff if needed. Get these labels at bib pickup.

If you see an injured skier on the trail, provide what aid you can; and report to the nearest Course Patroller or Food/Aid Station.

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The Finish Line

Finish Line Festival Tent

ResultsYour unofficial result will be available within 5 seconds of you crossing the line and results will be finalized by 6 pm. See your results on:

Five Results Monitors provided in the Festival Tent, continuously scrolling unofficial results (one dedicated monitor for each of the timed events).

canadianbirkie.com linked to Zone4.ca, which will have results posted in very close to real time for viewing on your own smartphone, tablet or computer. Internet reception is not reliable in the Stadium area, so you may need to wait and check later (e.g., while on the shuttle bus back to UCHV or Bethel Transit Station).

If you don’t see your result up within an hour of your finish or you see a problem with the results posted, speak to the Results Official at the Timing Trailer immediately. Official Results will be posted on the Birkie website and Zone4.

Facebook and Twitter: Some results will be posted as they are known.

Awards Age Group AwardsAll age group awards will be presented on site in the Festival Tent, so we can all celebrate age group winners. When you check the results monitors, if you are in the top three in your age and gender category, please present yourself to the person at the Awards table.

Age Group Awards Ceremonies will be held (pending receipt of official results) hourly at 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:00 pm. Each ceremony will be announced five minutes before it starts. You may ONLY secure your award before an Age Group Award Ceremony, unless you present yourself at the Awards table after the 4 pm ceremony.

Awards presented will include: male and female age group awards in the 55 km BK and BL and 31 km classic events and the 40 km Birkie Skate. Recognized age groups for these events begin at the 16-19 age group. The events are considered ‘over-distance’ racing by Cross Country Canada for skiers younger than that age. We encourage fit, keen youth to tour this distance. Age group awards are not presented in the 13 km MB or Ole’s Tour.

Medallions for 55 km event first time finishers will be at the Finish Line, and 55 km year pins will be available in the Festival Tent for those who have previously skied a 55 km event.

Major Awards Major awards will be given out at the Vikings’ Feast. Awards presented here will include:

- the top three winners in the BK 55, BL 55, BT 31, BS 40 and MB 13; male and female- Haakon Haakonson, Ole Hovind, John Toonen, and Canadian Birkebeiner Founders Award

Haakon Haakonsson AwardThe Haakon Haakonsson award recognizes dedication to the Birkebeiner tradition. It is an award that is exclusive to the Canadian Birkebeiner, but awards all skiers who have skied in the Norwegian, American and Canadian Birkebeiner long distance events. In addition to receiving a beautiful handcrafted stein, recipients' names are preserved for posterity on the CANBi shields housed in the Canadian and American Birkebeiner offices. 143 skiers from all over Canada, many from the USA, and other international skiers have earned this award since its inception in 1992.

Ole Hovind AwardOle Hovind was one of the pioneers of skiing in Alberta, active from the 1920's to the 1980's. He had significant influence over the people who would become the founders of the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival. The Ole Hovind Award was created in Ole's memory and is presented annually to the skier who best represents the spirit of the Birkebeiner and the things which Ole valued – skiing for the sheer joy of it, having fun, joking a lot, achieving something and just getting out there and doing it. There have been 37 recipients of this award since its introduction at the very first Birkie in 1985.

John Toonen AwardJohn Toonen was one of the original participants of the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival, a Haakonsson award winner, and a red bib Canadian Birkie skier for 15 years; never missing a Birkie. John passed away in 2002 at the age of 57. His spirit lives on through the John Toonen Memorial Award; a beautiful wood plaque with names etched on individual name plates. This award is presented annually to a skier in the 55km event who exemplifies John Toonen's qualities.

Founders and Builders AwardThe Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival was founded and has grown under the nurturing of numerous caring souls who have shared a vision for promoting and supporting cross country skiing and active, healthy outdoor lifestyles. This award was first introduced in 2013 to recognize those who initiated the Canadian Birkie and those who have brought the Birkie from its first tentative steps to the major national and international event it has become. Founders will receive their awards at the Vikings’ Feast and Builders will receive theirs at the Volunteer Orientation and Appreciation Party.

Photo by Glenda Hanna

Photo

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All events finish at the Waskehegan Staging Area “Stadium”. There is a common Finish Line for all events. Give your timing chip to a Finish Line Volunteer. Please clear the Finish Area quickly to make room for other skiers.

Blankets, refreshments and medical aid will be available at the Finish, as well as clothing transported from the Start. Heated change trailers are on-site (sorry, no showers on-site).

After an enjoyable day skiing your Birkie, come and relax in the heated Festival Tent. Sit and enjoy a bowl of soup (including vegan ), optionbarbequed hot dog (including gluten-free option), hot or cold drink, fruit and snacks. It’s a great place to meet up with friends, old and new, and swap tales from the trail.

You can also view your results on the monitors provided, pick up your 55 km year pin, celebrate age group winners, and purchase Birkie souvenirs.

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In the year 1206 a civil war raged in Norway. The infant prince and direct heir to the throne, Haakon Haakonsson, was in danger and being hidden near

Lillehammer. Two brave Birkebeiner warriors rescued the prince and carried him to safety; skiing 55

kilometres over two mountain ranges in the dead of winter. The young prince, later crowned King of Norway, ended the civil war and brought great peace and prosperity to the land.

The English translation of Birkebeiner is “Birchlegs”, which described the warriors’ snow gaiters/battle leg protection, made of birch bark wrapped around the lower legs and secured with leather straps. Today, Birkebeiner has come to mean a person strong in adversity; never daunted by trial and hardship.

The dramatic flight of the Birchlegs and the Infant Prince is commemorated every year by the Norwegian Birkebeinerrennet ski race which parallels the historic route over the mountains between Lillehammer and Rena.

In 1985, some 127 hardy participants participated in the first “Canadian Birkebeiner” in very cold conditions, reminiscent of the brutal winter in the original Norwegian Birchlegs saga. Since 1985, tens of thousands of skiers have relived the legend here, many skiing the premier event - 55 kilometres with a 5.5 kg pack. The Canadian Birkebeiner, with distances for all ages and abilities, has grown to become the largest and friendliest cross-country ski festival in Western Canada, and second largest in Canada.

The Birkebeiner Legend:

Skiing Through History

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The Birkie will have volunteer photographers taking pictures of the events and participants for Birkie promotional use. The slideshow debuts at the Vikings’ Feast Birkie evening, so come enjoy the day as captured for posterity.

This year, unfortunately, photographers will not be able to take and catalogue individual skier photos for sale after the event. So, bring your phone or a small camera if you want a shot of yourself at the event. Selfies taken with your favourite Birkie volunteers are very cool.

Photography

Millennium Place: Strathcona County is pleased to offer skiers an opportunity to warm up and relax post-race at Millennium Place. If you are interested in receiving a free Birkie Day pass, please stop by the Strathcona County booth at the Nordic Fair. You must have your race package with you and can only get a pass if you personally come to the booth. The pass is only good for Birkie Day.

Location: Strathcona Community Centre Agora Room, 401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park. Time: Doors at 6 pm; dinner at 7.Join us for this wonderful celebration, sumptuous dinner and a program full of Birkie spirit, plus tons of draw prizes.

You won’t want to miss this year’s Vikings’ Feast. It’ll be an evening overflowing with Birkie spirit and energy and will include:

• Buffet Dinner• Slideshow of the Birkie Day• Major Awards• Norwegian Entertainment• Draw Prizes galore, including grand prizes of two $625 gift certificates, sponsored by Salomon

Making a Day of it

Vikings’ Feast

Agora World Cup Viewing: Come join us at the Agora Room anytime after 5 pm and put your feet up to watch exciting World Cup Cross Country Ski and Biathlon Races on the big screen (two really big screens bring the action up close and personal – you can almost smell the skiers). Free to all Birkie skiers, volunteers and their guests; must have a Feast ticket to remain after 6 pm.

Follow the fun on Birkie Day as we post updates, results and photos on our social media feeds! Facebook Page: Canadian Birkebeiner Society Twitter: @canadianbirkie Instagram: canadianbirkie New personal best? First-time on skis? Selfies with new friends? We'd love to hear about your Birkie day. Upload photos of your fondest Birkie 28 moments and share your experiences during your Greatest Adventure on Snow! Hashtag #canadianbirkie and #yegwinter to share with the rest of the skiing community!

Stay Connected!PRINT

Follow the fun on Birkie Day as we post updates, results and photos on our social media feeds! Facebook Page: Canadian Birkebeiner Society (https://www.facebook.com/cdnbirkie)Twitter: @canadianbirkie (https://twitter.com/canadianbirkie)Instagram: canadianbirkie (https://twitter.com/canadianbirkie) New personal best? First-time on skis? Selfies with new friends? We'd love to hear about your Birkie day. Upload photos of your fondest Birkie 28 moments and share your experiences during your Greatest Adventure on Snow! Hashtag #canadianbirkie and #yegwinter to share with the rest of the skiing community!

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Lost and Found

Unclaimed Awards

Spencer EnvironmentalManagement Services

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Provincial Park Regulations

More Info

JV Driver Projects

Beaver Hills Initiative

Torskeklubben

Thankyou!

canadianbirkie.com

Skiers and spectators are reminded that the event is staged in a Provincial Recreation Area and all rules and regulations must be followed. No alcohol is allowed in the park. Dogs are not allowed on the ski trails, and must be leashed in the parking lots and pedestrian areas. Bikes must be kept off the ski trails. Do not litter along the ski trails (candy wrappers, gel-pacs, kleenex, etc.). Use the recycling, compost and garbage system available. Thank you for following the rules and being courteous.

A Lost and Found box is located in the Clothing Tent in the Finish Area. Unclaimed items will be taken to the Birkie office for pick-up. Email or call the office if you’re missing something. At the end of May, each year, unclaimed articles will be donated to charity.

We encourage you to pick up all awards on-site. Unclaimed awards can be picked up at the office after the event. Awards for out-of-town winners can be mailed at your expense.

Events Sponsors

Lambert Intellectual Property Law

Elk Island National Park

Alley Kat Brewery

Campers Village

Cross Country Skier

Fast Trax

MEC

Ostrem Chemical

SWIX

Salomon

Track 'n Trail

Bronze SponsorsGlobal Edmonton

E Construction

Media Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Totem Outdoor Outfitters

Campbell Scientific

Bergans of Norway

Melcor

Silver Sponsors

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

City of Edmonton(Community Investment Operating Grant)

Strathcona County

Government Sponsors

Alberta Parks:

Provincial Recreation AreaCooking Lake - Blackfoot

Magazine

Skiing is not allowed at or out of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village except on Birkie Day. Pre-race training on the long courses at that end of the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot PRA may be accessed through the Blackfoot Staging Area east of the UCHV site.

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Canadian Birkebeiner Society

Food Stations

Long StartMedicalPatrol - Long EventsPatrol - Short EventsRegistration

SafetyRecording Secretary

Short StartSpecial ProjectsSponsor SignageStadium Set Up/TakedownStadium-Clothing TentTiming/Finish LineTransportationVolunteer Coordinator

Staff

Glenda Hanna General ManagerNicole Brenda Office Administrator

Cam McGregor

Ken Bagnall Secretary

David Becker Treasurer

Amy Bradley Mae Nandlall

Lawrence VincentPeter KershawDoug Kelker

2015 - 2016 Loppet (Technical) Commitee

Cameron McGregor

Chief of Loppet

Greg Elzinga, Frank Key

Greg Elzinga

Jim Black, Basil Delaney

Course

Mike BerezanFestival Tent

2015 - 2016 Board of Directors

Nordahl Flakstad Vice President (Chief of Loppet)

Director – Program Services

Director – Marketing

Director at LargeDirector at Large

Director at Large

Mae Nandlall Director – FestivalDave Cooper Director – Sponsorship

Brian Lucas Director – Human Resources

President Lawrence Vincent, Ross JohnsonDana AndersonKaren JohnsrudJeremy Christensen Nikki SandieLouise Sutherland Jim Wiley, Brian ChuCarolene Kuschminder

Greg Elzinga

Brian Lucas Dave Johnston, Lindsay BassLaura McIlveen Aaron Dodds, Barry Calder Alasdair DrinnanBrian Lucas, James Wark

Ed HeacockMark Lunger

Supporting Suppliers and Contributors:Ad-MartAlberta Emergency Management Alberta Traffic Supply LtdAmptec/3D Fire & SafetyApollo PropaneBrian LucasBudget Rent-a-Car of EdmontonEarth FriendlyEdmonton Heritage FestivalFast Fence RentalsGreen for Life EnvironmentalJaN StudiosKastelen Sausage & Fine MeatsKDL Audio ProductionsMartin DeerlineNoble House FoodsP-CANN ServicesPergisPNK Bus ServiceRiver City EventsSt. John AmbulanceSentinel Self-StorageSobeys Nottingham Sons of NorwaySparky's Electrical ServicesSpecial Events RentalsStrathcona Emergency Services TelusThe Marketer / TourismSolutions.caTim Melton

canadianbirkie.com

Whale Tail GraphicsZorzos Framing

Friends of the Birkie:Alberta Trail Riders Association (FS)Garry Atchison, MeteorologistBlackfoot Grazing AssociationBlackfoot Ultra Marathon (FS)Canadian Progress Club of Sherwood Park (FS)Cooking Lake-Blackfoot PRA StaffCooking Lake-Blackfoot PRA VolunteersCross Country AlbertaCross Country CanadaEdmonton Attendance Centre, Alberta Justice and Solicitor GeneralEdmonton Bicycle and Touring Club (FS)Edmonton ExaminerEdmonton Nordic Ski ClubEdmonton Overlanders Orienteering Club (FS)Friends of Blackfoot SocietyGrant MacEwan Mountain Club (FS)Margaret ToonenMultiple Sclerosis Society – Alberta and NWT DivisionNorthern Information (FS)Odin’s Ravens

th175 Southwood Scouting Group (FS)St. Albert Community Information and Volunteer CentreStrathcona County Information and Volunteer CentreStrathcona Wilderness CentreUniversity of Alberta Outdoor Club (FS)

Viking Mascots – Verner Steinbru and Pasi KarstenWaskahegan Trail Association (FS)Yardley Jones Studios

FS = Food Station Hosts

Cooking Lake/ Blackfoot PRA liasonCommunications

Chad Gjertsen

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Our Skier Donors 2015

Our Skier Donors 2016

canadianbirkie.com

King Haakon Level ($100+)Robert HadawayGregory O’ConnorChris PowerGordon McKenzie

Prince Haakon Level ($50-99)Stasys Levandauskas

Inga Fra Varteig Level ($1-49)Roger BrownWilliam McEneryJohn B MitchellBarry MangCal LenzDave Fricke

Barry ColeMike NivenKathy MurrieMichael MonaghanCarla TeskeyAlan MabeeJan McGregor

Kent WestKristina GivensColleen ElgertMax ElgertAbby ElgertGerry Loowell

(Skier donors as of Jan. 12, 2016)

(Skier donors Jan. 21 to Feb. 11, 2015)

King Haakon Level ($100+)Miloslav BozdechMichael BussLiz HerbertGerald Streefkerk

Prince Haakon Level ($50-99)Andrew Melton

Inga Fra Varteig ($1-49)Connie AngielskiOrjan BirkelandSteven Brese

Roger Brown Tom CorbettLogan DacksBarbara DalyBodhi DensmorePhil DunnCathy DunnMichele EidamKurt EisenzimmerCraig FrancisTony GiantomasoPatty GloverKevin Hancock

Glenda HannaJeremy HastingsNick HoltKlaus HuckfeldtJohanna ItzeckKen JohnsonConnie JohnsonJozef KuciakGermar LohstraeterGerhard LotzLaura MarvanMerv MatsonSean McCarthy

Debbie McCarthyCurtiss McLeodJohn MitchellMaureen NelsonElaine OloskeBing PhungDavid PughRalph RixLawrence RossDoug RourkeIvar SaugenIrvin ServoldOksana TcherbakFred Wall

The Canadian Birkebeiner

Partner with the following organizations

is proud to

Connect with us!

The Canadian Birkebeiner Society participates in and/or helps support other events in the community, including Johnson MS Bike Tour, Tour de l'Alberta, Great White North Triathlon, the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club Ski Swap and others.

The Society holds a casino every two years; the next one will be June 3 & 4, . Please call the office or apply online if you can 2016volunteer.

As a not-for-profit organization, the Society runs the event on a break-even basis. Any surpluses that the Society generates are used to improve facilities at Cooking Lake - Blackfoot, unexpected expenses, and to improve the Ski Festival in subsequent years. Casino funds help to offset the operating expenses to run the loppet, and help to keep entry fees affordable. Funds raised from casinos and grants have also been used to purchase grooming

Ever Wonder About the Canadian Birkebeiner Society?

Board, Loppet Committee and Staff

Cool Events Birkie Supports

Not-for-Profit Fundraising & Casino

Please Join Our Amazing Group ofVolunteers

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Canadian Birkebeiner Society# 103, 9920 63 Avenue

Edmonton, Alberta Canada T6E 0G9

Phone 780-430-7153

Email: ski@canadianbirkie.com

canadianbirkie.com

The Canadian Birkebeiner Society is a registered not-for-profit organization formed in 1985 by five enthusiastic skiers with a vision: Brian Peters, Neil Warner, Doug Kelker, Kaare Askildt and Douglas Russell. The Society’s main purpose was, and still is, to organize the annual Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival and to promote cross-country skiing. In 1996 the Society registered “Birkebeiner” as a Canadian Trademark.

The Board is a group of volunteers who manage the affairs of the Society so that the Loppet is sustainable. Members are elected at the Annual General Meeting and they meet monthly year round. The Loppet Committee is comprised of the task-area Chiefs who organize and run the Loppet. Meeting from September through March, they support the work of the 600 volunteers who make it all happen Birkie day. Both the Board and Loppet Committee Chiefs are members of the Canadian Birkebeiner Society. The Society also has two part-time permanent staff who serve the organization in management and administration functions.

Cooking Lake Blackfoot ProvincialRecreation AreaIn addition to organizing the Festival, the Society also assists with the maintenance of trails at Cooking Lake - Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area and supports the Friends of Blackfoot Society, the Park’s Cooperating Association.

equipment, snowmobiles, emergency toboggans, medical equipment bags, timing systems, communication radios, computer equipment, water tanks and signs. Funds have also been used for the purchase and repair of equipment, trail improvements, and construction of Meadow shelter, Elk Push shelter, and Birkie storage facilities.

It takes approximately 600 volunteers to plan, organize and run the Birkie each year. This represents over 10,000 human hours annually. Some volunteers work year-round, while others help several hours on the weekend of the ski events. Many different areas require a variety of skills and interests - Food/Aid Stations, Transportation, Logistics, Stadium, Timing and Finish Line, Trail Crew, Ski Patrollers, and many others. Interested? We are sure to have a position you’d enjoy.

The Society recognizes the invaluable contribution of volunteers in a variety of ways. As a volunteer, you’ll receive a gift as a token of our appreciation and an invitation to our Volunteer Orientation and Appreciation Party, with food, entertainment and lots of amazing door prizes. Most of all, our volunteers have fun, meet new people and make new friends. Every year skiers write to say how friendly and wonderful the Birkie volunteers are. If you are interested in volunteering for next year, please contact the Birkie office. Information on volunteer positions and online volunteer applications are on the Birkie website, canadianbirkie.com

JOIN US NEXT YEAR...

Canadian Birkebeiner TM

Ski Festival

FEBRUARY 10 & 11, 2017

Proud Sponsor of the 55 km Birkie Lite