FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Birkie Course Update

The northern portion of the trail is entirely covered with a 1-3” thick, very firm base. I checked the significant downhills used this weekend for the Pre-Birkie and they held up with no noticeable loss of base. I also checked the new Classic Trail, including those portions used for the North End Classic on Sunday. The tracks are in good to very good condition, and improved as they were skied in. Overall conditions on the northern Birkie Trail are very good. We request that the classic trail only be used for classic skiing from now until after the race to help preserve the tracks that are there.

The southern half of the trail is also mostly completely covered again with a 1-3” thick very firm base. There are areas that are thinner, usually associated with a heavy canopy of pines, e.g. Mosquito Brook area. We are going to check the southern portion of the trail Tuesday and identify areas where snow is needed. We have harvested a large quantity of snow from Lake Hayward that will be used, not only for Main Street, but will hauled to those areas we identify as being in need of snow. More snow is available if we need it. Trail work will be carried out through the weekend.

Telemark is assisting us with preparation of the Kortelopet trail.

We believe we will have a full race and tracks will be available for classic skiers. People should check our website for updates through race day. Thanks.