FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Birkie Elite Sprints Cancelled

The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation has cancelled the Madshus/Fits Sock Elite Sprints originally scheduled for noon on Feb. 19. The National Weather Service is predicting a morning low of minus 17 and a high around zero on Thursday. According to Ben Popp, ABSF executive director, concern for skier safety motivated the decision to cancel the sprints. Madshus and Fits Sock will now sponsor the sprint bonus at Highway OO, awarding prizes of $750, $350 and $200 to the first three men and women to the top of the hill.

The Barkie Birkie and the Giant Ski are still on for Thursday.

For the races Saturday, the NWS predicts a low of 4 and a high of 16.