FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mike Huerbin
www.minnesotafinlandia.com

February 9, 2008

Minnesota Finlandia Race Update

The Start has been groomed, the Axes painted and the plans set, Finlandia 08 is almost here and the course is in the best shape in years! Last nights snow brought an additional 2 inches which groomers were able to work in prior to the high winds. Work continues this weekend w/ additional grooming and course markings. Pre registration has increased proving to be an excellent year.

If anyone remembers last year, well lets just say it was snow less, Finlandia pulled out all the stops and provided an award winning course, literally. The Skinnyski Series awarded Finlandia with "Best Grooming", a very welcome addition to our 27 years of providing a high quality race. This year we will be running a full course without a doubt, including last years popular lake connection, (not a lake lap). The 25K Continuous Pursuit is growing in popularity creating an interesting dynamic with the other 3 races.

Next weeks temps are forecasted to be in the mid 20s with a touch of the white stuff on Friday. Don't miss the opportunity to ski one of Minnesota's oldest Ski Marathons in it's best possible shape. Lets also not forget about the Hall of Fame Feed, following the races in the old logging village. The soup is being prepped this week and will be waiting for you.

Events are as follows:

Friday, Feb 15th Race Registration Day - Keg & Cork (Downtown Bemidji)

  • 4:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.: Race registration, bib pick-up.
  • 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Spaghetti Feed.

 

Saturday, Feb 16th Minnesota Finlandia Ski Events (Buena Vista Ski Area)

  • 8:00 a.m.: Walk-on Northwoods Tour Registration only, bib pick-up in Main Chalet (all other races)
  • 10:00 a.m.: Paul Bunyan Telephone /Buena Vista Classic 25km wave start & 25k Pursuit
  • 10:30a.m. Minnesota Finlandia 50km elite wave start
  • 10.35a.m: Finlandia 50km and Homeplace 25km Bemidjithon wave one start
  • 10:45 a.m.: 1st National Bank/ Northwoods Tour 5km start
  • 11:00 a.m.: Hall of Fame Hospitality Feed - skiers and volunteers
  • 5:30 p.m.: Award Ceremony, 27th Annual Celebration, Elks Club (Downtown Bemidji)

 

Sunday, Feb 17th Family Funday (Buena Vista Ski Area)

  • 10:00 a.m.: Registration opens in Hall of Fame
  • 11:00 a.m.: Babe's Tour -1/2km & 3km kid's tour (free)
  • 1:00 p.m.: Hiihtolakki "Ski Cap" 3km x 4 Relay (free)
  • Awards and refreshments in Hall of Fame follow each event.