52nd American Birkebeiner Sees Record Performances

Thousands of skiers came to northwest Wisconsin last weekend for the 52nd Slumberland American Birkebeiner, presented by Pioneer Midwest.

Birkie Week drew nearly 12,000 participants, according to the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. Those participants competed in the signature 50-kilometer races to the Kortelopet, Prince Haakon, and other races for all ages and abilities from across the U.S. and around the world.

Early in the week, a mix of rain and freezing temperatures forced some schedule changes, including the postponement of Open Track events. By Saturday, the trails were fast and firm, and they set the stage for record performances in the signature 50 kilometer race from Cable to Hayward.

Luke Jager of Alaska won the men’s skate race in one hour, 50 minutes and 45 seconds, setting a new course record.

“It was super fun and I’m so thankful to get to be a part of this crazy, awesome thing,” says Jager.

Minnesota’s Alayna Sonnesyn won the women’s 50-kilometer race in 2 hours, 8 minutes and 9 seconds. Sonnesyn’s win ties her with Caitlin Gregg for the most American Birkebeiner victories at five. Combined with her Kortelopet wins, she holds the record for the most wins of any skier in Birkebeiner history.

“It was super cool. Around Boedecker Road I looked to my left and I saw my sister and it was so meaningful to be there with her. The American Birkebeiner has been a family event for the Sonnesyn crew since before I was born, and to be out here, getting to race with my sister, about to cheer in my brother, brother-in-law, and dad, and I got to cheer on my mom in the Open Track. It’s just amazing to be out here with so many people that I love and feel the love from,” says Sonnesyn.

In the 53 kilometer classic race, Fabian Stocek from the Czech Republic and Hannah Rudd from Montana won first place.

The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation says it wants to recognize the Hayward and Cable communities, their staff, and the thousands of volunteers and global skiing community who make Birkie Week possible.

You can find the full list of race results on the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation website.