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TELEMARK RESORT IS 55 YEARS OLD AND GOING STRONG
Wisconsin While the American Birkebeiner prepares to celebrate its
30th anniversary, friends and employees of the resort and ski area where it was born will give a whoop and holler as it marks 55 years of existence. Telemark Resort plans to mark this momentous occasion with
a celebration to rival the revels of the past. On the weekend of Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, it will host the Glory Days Reunion and 55th anniversary celebration.
For so many employees, visitors and guests from around the world Telemark has been, or continues to be, a significant part of their lives. On that last weekend of November, Telemark will be alive with music and
laughter. Old friends will meet again and share stories and memories in the comfort of the lodge. Lively entertainment, ceremonies, drinks and
dining will all be part of the fun. People are invited to tell their favorite story about the resort's founder, Tony Wise, or even do their best Tony impression.
"I'm also putting out a call to anyone who has names and addresses of people who were part of Telemark's Glory Days," said Janie Wise,
Tony's daughter. "Please call, send or fax them in to me as soon as you can! We don't want to miss anyone."
It was Dec. 13, 1947, when Wise fired up a Model A engine powering
towropes to pull skiers up Mount Telemark for the thrill of hair raising runs down its steep slopes.
There wasn't much differentiation then between downhill and cross
country skis and boots. The boots were leather and held on to the binding with flexible cables. You could stride in them, too. Anticipating the sport that would later bring Telemark such fame, Wise had laid out
eight miles of "langlaufer" cross country trails to augment his downhill runs.
Wise, a Hayward native, had served in World War II in the 14th
Armored Division. Stationed near Garmisch in Bavaria during the post war occupation, he saw the enthusiasm the German people had for the exhilarating sport of skiing. Garmisch had been the site of the 1936
Winter Olympics for both Alpine and Nordic skiing events.
Upon returning to the U.S., Wise finished his MBA at Harvard and headed home to Hayward with the dream of bringing skiing to the
Northwoods in a big way. Buying the land around the biggest hill in the area and naming it Mount Telemark was the first step in transforming Cable and Hayward, two communities used to hibernating the winter
months, into a skiing Mecca. By 1949 Mount Telemark attracted 77,000 visitors, according to the "Milwaukee Sentinel," and had scored the blow
that would "break the bleak monotony of winter in an important summertime playground." Telemark's Alpine runs were definitely a hit,
but the langlaufer trails didn't draw snow flies. Wise was too far ahead of his time.
As Alpine skiing grew in popularity, competing ski hills opened up. Wise
kept Telemark at the peak of prestige in the Midwest by making it more than just a place to ski. The colorful Chalet with its Rathskeller Bar, ski
shop, heat lamp sun deck, restaurants and fireplace was the spot to be. In the swinging '60s it even had a dance club named The Lovin' Roomful. The '60s also saw Telemark pioneer manmade snow, creating at the time
the world's largest snow making system.
In the early '70s Telemark's revival of cross country skiing coincided with the building of a new meeting and convention lodge. Wise launched into
both in his typical way. He got Herb Fritz, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, to render the concept of the star shaped resort core centered around a soaring 55 foot fieldstone fireplace. The lodge opened for the
25th anniversary in December of 1972, along with cross country ski trails designed by U.S. Olympic coach Sven Wiik. That February, 35 skiers lined up on Lake Hayward for the first American Birkebeiner. Wise
figured the publicity generated by the race would attract skiers to his trails.
To look at Telemark and the Birkie now, it's astounding to think they
grew entirely out of one man's vision and ability to sell people on the excitement of something they never even knew they wanted. It hasn't all been roses at Telemark, though. There were dark years after Wise lost
control of it in the mid '80s.
In July of 1999, Telemark took a dramatic turn for the better when people who had bought condos there purchased the entire resort and put
it on course again. Once more it's a destination for meetings, dining, recreation and fun. The incredibly popular Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival mountain bike event calls Telemark home. This January, the trails
will fill with skiers for the third annual 24 Hours of Telemark where teams ski around the clock logging as many kilometers as a Kortelopet.
Of course, the Birkie is at the heart of Telemark's heritage. As both
celebrate this winter, they will remind us that dreams can come true.
"People have been waiting for this," says Janie Wise. "Anyone who has
ever experienced Telemark or anyone who wants to know what it was like is invited. Fifty five is no limit at Telemark."
For information contact Janie Wise, N9323 Beaver Lake Road,
Hayward, WI 54843; 715/634 7526, phone or fax (call first), thefam@cheqnet.net.
POSTER, COMMEMORATIVE BOOK HIGHLIGHT BIRKIE'S 30TH ANNIVERSARY
Wisconsin "Feel the Energy, Live the Dream" is exactly what Kelly
Kimball Skillicorn of Winona, Minn., felt when she skated over the finish line to become the 1988 female champion of the American Birkebeiner ski marathon. It's also what she felt when she recently learned she was
selected as the central image for the the Birkie's 30th anniversary poster depicting that slogan.
Skillicorn was selected from thousands of photographs to be the image
overlaying a collage of pictures capturing the faces of Birkie skiers young and old, male and female, elite and recreational. The 30th anniversary poster draws viewers into the history of North America's largest and
most prestigious cross country ski marathon.
Spanning 51 kilometers from Cable to Hayward, the Birkie is one of 14 races that are part of the esteemed Worldloppet international circuit, part
of the International Ski Federation (FIS) Marathon Cup series and part of the American Ski Marathon series. The event draws thousands of cross country skiers, including Olympians, to northern Wisconsin each
year. During this 30th anniversary year, numbers are expected to soar to 10,000 participants and 20,000 spectators for Birkie festivities from Thursday, Feb. 20 through Saturday, Feb. 22. Skillicorn will be among
the racers.
"1988 was the first time I skied the race," she said. "I had no idea what the course was like, and I didn't really realize what it meant to be the
winner. At first I just thought it was another race but over the years I have realized how prestigious it is. It's much more than a ski race. It's an
event, a happening. When people tell me they saw my picture on the wall (of Birkie winners) at Telemark, it is really awesome."
Skillicorn had no idea she was the "poster girl" until she received a copy in the mail. Now each time she walks by it, she notices another friend or
photo that grabs her attention. She keeps coming back to look at the 30 years of history through photos.
She'll be back for Birkie 2003 just nine months after the birth of her first
child, Anni. Skillicorn has her sights set on retaining one of the top 50 spots among her female competitors. She's counting on her training and
lifelong competitive instincts from running, skiing and triathlon events to help carry the day. Maybe she'll even have some leftover adrenaline for
signing posters at Telemark Lodge on Friday evening. Whatever the day brings, she knows she will once again "Feel the Energy, Live the Dream."
In addition to the 30th anniversary poster, a commemorative book is in the making. Tentatively titled "Stories from the Trail: Commemorating 30
years of the American Birkebeiner," the book will feature the history of the race, all past Birkebeiner and Kortelopet winners, interesting facts and numerous photos. The majority of the book, however, will be
comprised of stories submitted by skiers themselves.
"There's no other event that inspires people more than the Birkie or the
Korte," says Kevin Olson, the book's editor. "Every skier has at least one good story from every Birkie or Korte, and they're told to friends
and family, but after that they're often lost. I want to capture the best stories in print from the past three decades so they can be preserved and
shared with everyone. It doesn't matter whether you're an elite racer or skiing from the back of the pack every participant has a story to tell."
Skiers are encouraged to share their own Birkie experiences and victory in finishing one of the most grueling races in the Worldloppet series by submitting a piece adhering to the following guidelines:
Submission deadline is March 1, 2003.
Only one story will be selected from each person; no more than three submissions per person.
Submissions must be 750 words or less.
The author has the right to edit submissions for content and length.
Submissions can be e mailed to birkieat30@hotmail.com or birkiebook@yahoo.com with submission pasted into body copy;
attachments will not be accepted.
Contributors will receive no monetary compensation for their stories but will receive a free copy of the book and experience the satisfaction of
having their stories published in this commemorative publication.
Submissions should include contributor's full name, address, phone number, number of Birkies/Kortes completed, and approximate year
when experience occurred.
All submissions become property of the author.
The best 50 to 75 stories will be selected based on creativity, writing, the
experience, variety and reflection on the Birkie itself. The book will be produced in 2003 and available for sale in 2004. A portion of the proceeds from each book will benefit the American Birkebeiner Ski
Foundation.
For more information or to register for the Johnson Bank American Birkebeiner, Kortelopet, Salomon Elite Sprints, Hayward Chamber of
Commerce Citizen Sprints, Telemark Lodge Over the Hill Race, Century Tel Junior Birkie, Chequamegon Communications Cooperative 10K, or the Sons of Norway/Swiss Miss Barnebirkie, call 715/634 5025, e mail birkie@birkie.com, or log on to www.birkie.com.
Birkie 2003 is sponsored by Johnson Bank, Subaru, Murphy McGinnis Media and other businesses throughout the region and country.
Leslie Hamp
SNOWSHOE WEEKEND FOR PARENTS, KIDS AT TREEHAVEN
Wisconsin Children ages 5 to 10 and their parent(s) or guardian(s) should plan to come to Treehaven for a fun filled winter weekend of
family snowshoeing fun Jan. 10 12. Kids and parents will learn the basic skills needed for the popular sport of snowshoeing. They will then join in
the excitement of games on snowshoes, enjoy an invigorating snowshoe hike through a Northwood forest, and relax in the evening to stories by a warming campfire. Meals and lodging accommodations will be provided
at the Treehaven Lodge.
Ongoing activities in a winter wonderland will surely make this event a lasting memory for all. Jim Joque, certified adventure education instructor
from University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, together with John Heusinkveld, assistant director at Treehaven, will lead you through a most exciting and adventurous weekend in a winter wonderland on
snowshoes. The cost of the fun filled weekend is $65 for adults, $35 for kids, which includes snowshoes, five meals and instruction. Lodging is optional. Weekend room fees are $50 per room for two nights with a
limit of four persons per room. Weekend runs Friday 7 p.m. to Sunday 3:30 p.m.
For more information and registration call Treehaven 715/453 4106 or e mail jeverson@uwsp.edu.
TILFORD WINS THIRD CFTF IN A ROW
Wisconsin Age has yet to slow Steve Tilford (Moots/Shimano), as the 42 year old won his third Chequamegon 40 in a row. Tilford, Topeka,
Kan., won his first Chequamegon at age 40 in 2000. Tilford forged ahead halfway into the 40 mile mountain bike race with Jeff Hall (Salsa) and Doug Swanson (Trek/VW). The trio made their move coming out of
the mud and rock strewn Martel's Pothole. Swanson was Tilford's first victim, coming off with 15 miles to go. Then with 10 miles to go, Tilford forged ahead up the Seeley Firetower Hill, and Hall couldn't respond.
"I didn't really punch it he just came off," Tilford said. He eventually built his lead to over two miles on the second place Hall.
"I just ran out of energy," said Hall. "Once he got the gap on the climb, I couldn't get it back. I just didn't have it in the end."
Swanson, finishing third a minute behind Hall, admitted that Tilford was the strongest rider in the race. "Both Jeff (Hall) and I were yo yoing off Tilford all day. He was the man today."
In the women's race, Mary Grigson (Subaru/Gary Fisher) powered her way to a seven minute win over last year's winner, Catherine Walberg (Trek/VW). Grigson, five time Australian champion, grabbed the early
lead as the race exited the pavement and entered the dirt at Rosie's Field and never slowed.
"I raced harder than I do on the World Cup circuit," said Grigson, who
rode a mountain bike with oversized tires. The hilly, point to point course and racing in a mixed field with men challenged the Canberra, Aus., native. Walberg, riding stronger than the previous year, conceded the
race early.
"If it had to be someone, I'm glad it was her. Sometimes the best woman wins."
Anne Grabowski (Nature Valley) finished third.
Former three time Tour de France champion Greg Lemond started the race, but dropped out with 10 miles to go due to mechanical problems.
Chequamegon Fat Tire 40 results
Men
1 Steve Tilford (Moots/Shimano) Topeka, Kan., . 2:17:43.3
2 Jeff Hall (Salsa) Apple Valley, Minn., 2:20:03.3
3 Doug Swanson (Trek/VW) Minnetonka, Minn., 2:21:11.8
4 Scott Quiring (Quiring Cycles) West Olive, Mich., 2:21:26.1
5 Tristan Schouten (PWC) Sheboygan, Wis., 2:21:32.7
6 Brian Narum (Trek/VW) Duluth, Minn., 2:21:35.1
7 Bill Stolte, Topeka, Kan., 2:23:47.3
8 Jeff Roy (Mantrap Lodge) Park Rapids, Minn., 2:23:56.7
9 Jesse Rients (Nature Valley) Minnetonka, Minn., 2:23:58.0
10 Troy Michaud, York, Maine, 2:24:18.6
Women
1 Mary Grigson (Subaru/Gary Fisher) Golden, Colo., 2:36:51.4
2 Catherine Walberg (Trek/VW) Topeka, Kan., 2:44:13.2
3 Anne Grabowski (Nature Valley) St. Anthony, Minn. 2:46:57.2
4 Rebecca Cleveland (Bike Hub) Green Bay, Wis., 2:47:41.9
5 Linda Gabor (Trek/VW) Menominee Falls, Wis., 2:51:10.9
6 Susan Juedes (Bike Hub) Madison, Wis., 2:53:13.6
7 Kyia Malenkovich (Dogfish) St. Cloud, Minn., 2:54:07.1
8 Stephanie Moats Leibke (Dogfish) Shoreview, Minn., 2:55:31.2
9 Michelle Flanagan Haag (Riverbrook) Seeley, Wis., 3:00:31.2
10 Trudi Roberts (Chequama Mamas) Topeka, Kan., 3:07:46.6
MAPLELAG VOTED BEST XC RESORT IN THE CENTRAL REGION
Minnesota Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Mont., has claimed the
title of North America's best cross country ski resort. Lone Mountain Ranch was the leading area in five of the seven categories with its lodge and family ratings both in second place behind Maplelag of Callaway,
Minn. Maplelag was voted best cross country resort in the central region.
This was the result of the Cross Country Ski Resort Poll in "Cross
Country Skier" magazine and presented by Alpina Cross Country Ski Boots and Madshus Skis. Skiers hailing from 41 different states and provinces submitted the poll ballots, which rated 225 different ski areas.
The Cross Country Ski Resort Poll was the first of its kind dedicated solely to nordic ski resorts across North America. Cross country skiers
rated their favorite xc ski resorts in seven different operational and characteristic categories including scenery, trail quality and grooming, the
lodge facility, food service, staff friendliness and service, and how the resort caters to families.
The Cross Country Ski Resort Poll was conceived and conducted by
industry researcher RB Lohr & Company, which recognized the support of "Cross Country Skier" magazine, Alpina and Madshus in bringing the
concept to fruition. An aggregate of all the ballots was derived and averaged.
The categories were selected by a group of industry consultants and
professionals and they may change in future polls. The top rated resorts were statistically very close. The 2002 03 Best XC Resort Poll is presently under development and will be conducted this winter.
MIDWEST CYCLING PRIONEER PASSES AWAY
Illinois Nestor Evancevich slipped away in his sleep during the night of Wednesday, Sept. 4.
Most recently, Evancevich was the founder and principle officer of American Bicycle Racing (ABR). ABR is a national membership organization that promotes the sport of bicycle racing and it's the leader
of the grassroots movement in competitive cycling.
During the 1980s, Evancevich was instrumental in the rapid growth of bicycle racing in Illinois and the greater Midwest. He became the Illinois
USCF district rep in 1985 when there was a total of seven races on the calendar. Over the next several years, with a small group of friends, he managed to put another 90 races on the schedule, and doubled the clubs,
riders and officials in the district. Those were great days that saw the rise of the Illinois Cycling Association, Mid America Time Trial Series (MATTS), Velo Tech event services and most of the classics we have
today.
During the 1990s, Evancevich became the first USCF Super Rep as he gradually took over first Wisconsin and, ultimately, Indiana, Kentucky and Michigan.
On any given day he was the life of the party. With an ever present smile and warm greeting for everyone, he lived his dream of turning the midwest into a vital cycling community. We have lost a great friend.
Mike Hanley
THE HIGHGROUND PLANS NOV. 9 CROSS COUNTRY RACE
Wisconsin The Highground Cross Country Challenge run is set for Nov.
9 at 11 a.m. The 5 kilometer trail race will be conducted on the trail system of the 144 acre veterans memorial.
The race entry fees are $12 (preregistration) and $15 (day of the event)
for individuals, $30 and $42 for three person teams and $25 and $40 for five to seven person teams. Team competition is encouraged. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. on race day. The preregistration deadline
is Nov. 6.
There will be individual and team scoring awards and special recognition for open, scholastic, veteran and active military divisions.
The Highground Veterans Memorial Park, located 4 miles west of Neillsville, Wis., was established in the 1980s as a place for healing and remembrance. The site sits on the edge of the terminal moraine and
overlooks 500,000 acres of forest and sand county's terrain. The memorial is completely funded by private donation, with no on going local, state or federal funding. The Highground draws approximately
200,000 visitors per year.
For more information on the event, contact Mark Berglund at 715/743 4224.
WISCONSIN LOOKING AT TWO NEW RAIL TRAILS
Wisconsin Wisconsin would have two new state recreation trails on
converted railroad grades to provide safe corridors for bikers, hikers and other compatible uses under a proposal currently up for public review.
The state Department of Natural Resources has reached an agreement to purchase approximately 57 miles of railroad right of way from Canadian National/Illinois Central railroad company.
Under a draft Environmental Assessment the railroad right of ways would be used for two new trails, one from West Bend to Eden and one from Crandon to White Lake, according to Danielle Valvassori, an easement
coordinator with the DNR Bureau of Facilities and Lands.
The proposed 24 mile West Bend to Eden state trail in Fond du Lac and Washington counties would be connected by local units of government to
the National Scenic Ice Age Trail, Kettle Moraine State Forest and local parks. The grade passes through the city of West Bend and the villages of Kewaskum, Campbellsport and Eden. As proposed, the state would
own the trail, which the counties would operate and maintain.
The 33 mile Crandon to White Lake state trail, located in Forest and Langlade counties, would run along the east shore of Lake Metonga at
Crandon, then south through forested lake areas of the Nicolet National Forest. In Langlade County the trail would follow the Wolf River until it
reaches While Lake. It would traverse river rapids, woods and wetlands, and part of the grade runs through Wolf River State Fishery Area. The state would own the trail and negotiations are taking place with the
counties to determine who would operate and maintain the trail.
"The trail corridors will continue to be managed in a semi natural
condition," Valvassori says. "They will provide habitat for wildlife and protect existing vegetation, including prairies."
Purchase of the rail corridors will go before state Natural Resources
Board for authorization at its November meeting. If approved, the trails could be open to the public in three to five years, after going through a master planning process. State trails may accommodate various non
motorized and motorized users, including hikers, wheelchair users, bicyclists, equestrians, cross country skiers, inline skaters, snowmobiles, all terrain vehicles, snowshoes, dogsleds and four wheel drive vehicles.
The uses of trails are determined during the master planning process, which considers the physical characteristics of the trail, compatibility of
users, local ordinances and public input. The planning process involves local and state agencies, potential trail user groups, local business and
tourism representatives and others interested in trails. Draft master plans go through a public hearing process before being presented to the Natural Resources Board for approval.
The draft EA determined the converted railroad grades will provide a safe trail for bikers, hikers and other compatible uses, while trail development will generate revenue for local contractors and local
businesses should realize increased sales due to trail users purchases.
The EA determined the trails are not anticipated to result in significant
adverse environmental effects, and that an environmental impact statement will not be required for these actions.
Copies of the EA are available from Richard Steffes, DNR Bureau of
Facilities and Lands, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707 7921; 608/266 0201 or by e mail to steffr@dnr.state.wi.us.
Wisconsin is a national leader in the conversion of abandoned railroad corridors to recreational trails. The Elroy Sparta State Trail was
established in 1965 as one of the first "rails to trails" projects in the nation. Since that time, Wisconsin has developed more than 1,600 miles
of trails on abandoned rail corridors, some of which are managed by the state parks program and some are managed through memorandums with counties and municipalities.
SCHOUTEN REPEATS AS WORS CHAMP
Wisconsin The final round of the 2002 Wisconsin Off Road Series (WORS), the Wigwam/Ultimax Mountain Bike Challenge Oct. 6 in
Sheyboygan, painted a familiar picture a showdown between Tristan Schouten (PCW) and Brian Schanning (PCW). The pair proved to be the strongest in front of a strong contingent of semi pros and pros,
including Tinker Juarez (Volvo Cannondale).
This season saw the WORS Series join NORBA as a member series, bringing with it higher recognition throughout the country and national
ranking for its members. This also made the WORS series the official NORBA Wisconsin State Championship.
In 2001, Doug Swanson (Trek/VW Midwest) was crowned as Regional
NORBA Champion and Schouten as Wisconsin State Champion.
The Expert event got under way with Schouten, Schanning and a group of other strong riders at the front. Among them were Chad Melis
(PWC), Boulder, Colo., Brian Eppen (Sobe/Cannondale), Wykoff, Minn., John Devine (Trek/VW Midwest), Dixon, Ill., Todd Mcfadden (Team Metric), Minneapolis, Minn., Doug Swanson and Dan Swanson
(Penn Cycle/Nature Valley), Minnetonka, Minn.
In the hotly contested men's expert/pro race, many people anticipated a strong performance by two time Olympian Tinker Juarez; however, the
two time National 24 Hour Champion met an early end when a mechanical problem, during the first lap, forced him to drop out.
The lead group stayed together well until the second time up the
Equalizer Hill climb, a hill boasting nearly a 40% grade. Riders received a $10 prime if they are able to ride to the top. At the top of the climb,
Schouten opened up a gap, which he lengthened over the next lap and a half. Schouten would maximize his lead to nearly a minute. A fast charging Schanning changed all that, ending Schouten's bid for his sixth
WORS win of the season. Schanning reeled in his teammate Schouten, who at Round 11, set a WORS record by winning his fifth WORS event of the season during a an 11 race season. The two battled back and forth
through the final laps. In the end, Schanning took the WORS Finals win with a time 1:52:53, holding off a very strong Schouten who rolled across
the line four seconds later. Rounding out the top five were Eppen, Devin and McFadden.
The end of the 2002 WORS Series sees the same two riders at the top
of the leader board: Schouten repeats as overall WORS Champion and Wisconsin NORBA State Champion and Schanning finishes a close second. The two also spent time this season riding on the Saturn
Development Cycling Team.
In the women's pro/expert race, it was much the same story as the rest of the season, seeing Linda Gabor (Trek/VW Midwest), Menomonee Falls,
Wis., powering away, winning with a time of 1:44:41, ahead of Gabor's season long contender, Anne Grabowski (Penn Cycle/Nature Valley), St. Anthony, Minn. by 2:09. Rounding out the top five included Rebecca
Cleveland (Team Bike Hub), Green Bay, Wis., Susan Juedes (Monegoose), Madison, Wis. and Christina Woodman (Team Michael's Cycles), Janesville, Wis.
The Sheboygan course has served as the WORS Finals venue over the last several years. The promoters continue to put on an outstanding show, continuously offering the largest cash purse in the state for a
mountain bike event, as well as lap and Equalizer Hill primes.
The WORS series is the nation's largest mountain bike race series, attracting nearly 1,000 racers during each of its 11 event schedule from
May to October. The WORS series made National cycling news early in 2002 when it signed on with USA Cycling as a NORBA member series.
Wisconsin has become a hotbed for cycling during 2002 hosting round
two of the Chevy Trucks NORBA National Mountain Bike Championship Series, as well as Pedro's Fest Midwest.
To find out more about the series, please feel free to log onto
www.wors.org or call Al Krueger at 414/331 8987 or email at alkrueger1@aol.com.
SKI GAMES AT BATTLE CREEK JAN.26 27
Minnesota Race organizers and members of the Battle Creek Ski
Foundation are busy making preparations for the second annual Ski Games at Battle Creek. The Ski Foundation was created to host and organize world class cross country ski racing events with a primary venue
of Battle Creek Regional Park in St. Paul, Ramsey County, Minnesota. The Ski Games are scheduled on Saturday and Sunday, January 26 27, 2003 at the Winthrop St. trails at Battle Creek Regional Park.
Saturday morning, the exciting action starts with a 10K Classical Citizen's race on the beautiful, rolling and challenging trails. The trail system is laid out for maximum spectator viewing.
Saturday afternoon, the action really picks up when energetic high school ski racers compete for their fastest times on a marked 1K sprint course.
Both boys and girls will be racing in their own age and gender groups. The intensity, enthusiasm, skill level and competition of this event will show the quality of young ski racers making their way towards Junior
Olympic and College level skiing. This is a Junior Olympic qualifying event.
Sunday morning the intense, exciting action continues with 1K sprint
races for the "Big Dogs" or experienced skiers. Again, the racecourse is laid out for maximum spectator viewing, while watching the strength and speed of the "Big Dogs."
Late Sunday morning, the signature event of the Games will be held. A 15/30K Freestyle race will be held through the challenging course. A new section of the trail system, which was built last year, will be used for
a portion of the 15K loop.
"Our events will appeal to a broad range of skiers, in age, training level and interest," Ski Foundation Director Toby Markowitz says.
Registration is now available by visiting the Ski Games website at www.skigames.org Volunteer opportunities are also available for non participants and community supporters.
NEW CATEGORIES ADDED TO 24 HOURS OF TELEMARK
Wisconsin The 3rd Annual 24 Hours of Telemark will be held at Telemark Resort in Cable, Wisconsin on January 11 12, 2003, with 3, 6,
12 and 24 hour divisions.
The 24 Hours of Telemark is a cross country ski relay race with teams of one to six members competing against each other in different age
divisions and categories. The team in each category that completes the most laps on a 10K course in 24 hours is the winner. The event was first
held in 2000 as America's first ever 24 hour cross country ski race.Last year the 24 T, as it is affectionately known, was the first citizen race to be
held that ski season, due to low snowfall amounts around the Midwest.
"The only reason we had a race last year was due to the huge commitment by the Telemark Resort staff and Cable Area volunteers,
who spent the week shoveling snow back onto the course," said race director Kevin Eccles. "With nearly 200 skiers and teams competing last
year, this year's 24 T is sure to see a significant jump in registration numbers.
"We are also adding 3 hour and 6 hour solo men's and women's
divisions," added Eccles. "We want to make sure people know how great the skiing is at Telemark. And with six weeks to go before the
Birkie, the new categories will offer skiers many options, based on their training regimen. It's great way to have fun and get important kilometers under your belt before the big ski marathons."
Last year Chris Ransom won the closely contested Men's Solo division, completing an amazing 330 kilometers in just over 24 hours. Ransom passed second place finisher Michael Schmitz from Duluth, MN at 18
hour mark, Schmitz rested and refueled.
This year's race will again be held on a challenging 10K course on the trails of Telemark Resort, with some slight changes from last year's course.
Telemark, legendary for hosting the American Birkebeiner ski marathon, is the perfect setting for the 24 Hours of Telemark, according to Phil Van Valkenberg, Director of Sales and Marketing Telemark Resort.
"Telemark Resort owners and staff are really excited to be hosting the 24 Hours of Telemark for a third year. Our goal is to reestablish Telemark
as the nation's premier cross country ski destination. We have continued off season trail maintenance to improve the skiing, even with low amounts
of snowfall. This year, the 24 Hours of Telemark will offer an opportunity for skiers to ski the some freshly cut trails, as well as the great existing trail system."
Most skiers will stay at the Telemark Resort, but other lodging is also available near the event site. To reserve your room today, please toll free: 877/798 4718, log on to: www.telemarkresort.com or call the Cable
Area Chamber of Commerce at 800/533 7454.
Skiers are able to participate in one of 19 different categories, including= 3, 6 and 12 hour race options for those not up to the 24 hour challenge.
Skiers are required to use lighting systems at night. Night Pro will be on site with rental units and rapid chargers. For registration or volunteer information contact, www.teamsportsevents.com, or call 262/549
6801, ext.16.
AL ENGEBRETSON BENEFIT AND PARTY
Wisconsin In May 2002, Al Engebretson of Stevens Point, Wis.,
sustained injuries in a WORS mountain bike race at Alpine Valley, which left him paralyzed from the shoulders down. After three months of extensive therapy at Froedtert Memorial Hospital in Milwaukee,
Engebretson finally went home to family in Stevens Point to continue his recovery. He has gradually regained some movement in his arms and legs, which is a huge step from no movement at all below the shoulders,
but much more work needs to be done.
Engebretson's friends and family have organized a party/benefit to raise funds that will enable him to continue with outpatient therapy and help
defray costs of home modifications for wheelchair accessibility. Family and friends believe that Engebretson's strong determination and positive
outlook will allow him to someday return to the active life he once led.
Engebretson has always been a strong supporter of CAMBA, helping with numerous events in the Hayward area. The folks of Hayward,
Seeley and Cable have grouped together to host a big party/fund raiser at the Seeley Sawmill Saloon in downtown Seeley, Wis. Please come and
join the fun, which will include live music, food and beverage, and a great auction featuring items that will tantalize bikers, skiers, kayakers and couch potatoes alike.
In conjunction with the auction there will be raffle tickets available with chances to win a Trek Fuel 80 mountain bike, a Wilderness Systems kayak, a three night stay at a luxury vacation cabin on the Chippewa
Flowage (including use of kayaks), a Memorex DVD, VCR, CD dual deck with built in MP3, and more.
The benefit starts at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, at the Sawmill with a cover
charge of $10, and the auction will conclude at 10 p.m. Raffle tickets will be available through mid February at various shops around the state. For
more information, contact Marcia at 715/634 4447 daytime or 715/462 9724 evenings.
Join us for an evening of fun and, at the same time, help a fellow silent sport enthusiast get back on his feet.
MIDWEST MOUNTAINEERING WINTERFEST
Minnesota The Midwest Mountaineering 17th annual winter outdoor celebration, the Outdoor Adventure Expo, will be held Nov. 8 10, 2002.
Everything in the store is on sale. Over 60 exhibitors, including outfitters, resorts and clubs, will be there to answer your questions on where to go for fun this winter.
Midwest Mountaineering is pleased to host the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. Minneapolis is one of the first stops on the international tour. The Banff Mountain Film Festival is an international
competition featuring the world's best films and videos on mountain subjects. Each year, a prescreening committee selects 30 to 40 finalists. An international jury then determines the best films and awards prizes in
eight categories: Grand Prize, Climbing, Mountain Sports, Mountain Environment, Mountain Culture, Short Mountain Film and Feature length Mountain Fiction. Audience members decide the winner of the People's
Choice Award.
Midwest Mountaineering will host three showings of the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour at the Humphrey Institute, Cowles Auditorium,
University of Minnesota (one block east of the store). The Friday evening, Nov. 8, and Saturday evening, Nov. 9, shows are identical and begin at 7 o'clock. The Saturday afternoon, Nov. 9, show at 1 o'clock
will feature mostly different movies. The cost is $12 per show. Tickets go on sale Oct. 14 at Midwest Mountaineering. For the last two years, these
shows have sold out. Plan to reserve your ticket ahead of time. Call Midwest Mountaineering at 612/339 3433 or toll free at 1 888/999 1077.
Programs are ongoing during the weekend at three stages. Programs are on cross country skiing, snowshoeing, skijoring, kayaking, ice climbing, outdoor adventure, destinations, how to clinics and more.
Midwest Mountaineering will host six feature presentations at the winter Expo. Scott Lindgren and Ken Storm will talk and present a movie about
the first descent of the Everest of Rivers, "Into the Tsangpo." Lonnie Dupre, a frequent guest at Midwest Mountaineering Outdoor Adventure
Expo events, returns with a final compilation of slides from his epic five year circumnavigation of Greenland by dog sledge and kayak. Rod Johnson, owner of Midwest Mountaineering, will show slides and talk
about ultralight backpacking on the 208 mile John Muir Trail in central California's High Sierra. Garrett Conover will present the high points of winter wilderness travel in remote areas. Conover specializes in
traditional methods of travel: canvas tents, wood burning stoves, toboggans, snowshoes, etc. Conover will also do a program on "Cold Weather Photography." Jack Tackle, recently back from an expedition to
Mount Augusta in Alaska, will show an overview of seven of the various routes in the Alaska Range and then focus on "The Elevator Shaft" of
Mount Johnson in the Ruth Gorge and "Arctic Discipline" on the North Face of Mount Kennedy in the St. Elias/Yukon. Mark Wilford, considered one of the most proficient and diverse alpinist/rock climbers
in the world, will present a slide show, "Yamandaka." Mark Wilford and Mark Richey recently pioneered a route on Yamandaka, an unclimbed
21,000 foot peak in India's Karakoram. They climbed in pure, traditional alpine style, ascending 4,000 feet of highly technical terrain. It was one of
the toughest alpine routes they'd ever done, surpassed only by the demands of the descent a multiday exercise in extreme canyoneering. Join Wilford for one of the best adventures he's ever had.
Hear the songs of Charlie Maguire, story time for kids with Paul Bunyan, "The Raven's Gift" with Kelly Dupre and much more entertainment.
BUDGET CUTS REDUCE SERVICES IN SOME MINN. STATE PARKS
Minnesota Due to cuts in the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) budget, visitors to Minnesota's state parks may notice some reduced
services. Cuts have been made in virtually all program and administrative areas, according to Parks and Recreation Division Director Bill Morrissey.
"The good news is that all 72 state parks and recreation areas will remain open throughout the year," Morrissey said.
The camping and lodging season will be shortened in 24 state parks. In
those locations, there will be no overnight use from Sept. 3 (the day after Labor Day this year) until Memorial Day weekend 2003. This will include all regular camping, horse camps, camper cabins and guest
houses at the affected parks. The only exception will be the campground at Charles Lindbergh State Park at Little Falls, which remained open through Sept. 8.
The affected parks are:
NORTHWEST
Buffalo River, Glyndon
Glacial Lakes, Starbuck
Glendalough, Battle Lake
Hayes Lake, Roseau
Old Mill, Argyle
Zippel Bay, Williams
NORTHEAST
Judge Magney, Grand Marais
McCarthy Beach, Side Lake
Moose Lake, Moose Lake
Schoolcraft, Deer River
CENTRAL
Charles Lindbergh, Little Falls
Lake Maria, Monticello
Minnesota Valley, Jordan
SOUTHERN
Beaver Creek Valley, Caledonia
Big Stone Lake, Ortonville
Carley, Plainview
Fort Ridgely, Fairfax
Great River Bluffs, Winona
Kilen Woods, Lakefield
Lake Louise, Le Roy
Monson Lake, Sunburg
Rice Lake, Owatonna
Split Rock Creek, Jasper
Upper Sioux Agency, Granite Falls
Campers should be able to find accommodations at other state parks that
will continue to offer camping year-round, although the number of campsites at some of those parks will be reduced. In addition, a number of park campgrounds will go to rustic conditions earlier in the fall this
year, when shower and flush toilet facilities close for the season. Visitors can either contact the park for current conditions or check the DNR state parks Web site for information at www.dnr.state.mn.us.
Other impacts will include reduced winter services and trail grooming in some parks. There will also be a 30 percent reduction in resource management efforts, with fewer project dollars available to restore and
maintain the 250,000 acres of landscape that makes up Minnesota's state parks. Maintenance will also be limited in selected state forest campgrounds.
"We're going to continue to provide the best possible service to the 8.5 million annual users of Minnesota State Parks," Morrissey said.
"Unfortunately, in these tough economic times, we're going to have to make do with less."
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