These events offer a range of distances for youth skiers, and it allows them to see similarly-aged athletes on cross country skis.
Participation is a great way to encourage youth skiers to adopt the sport.
The Barnebirkie, a free, non-competitive race for children ages three to 13, was added to Birkie festivities in 1985. The event has turned into the largest cross country children's race in North America and attracts skiers from all over the country, many of whom are in Hayward because their parents will be skiing the 51K Birkebeiner or 23K Kortelopet on Saturday, February 24. At the finish line on Main Street, each child is awarded a victory medal and treated to Swiss Miss hot chocolate and dozens of homemade cookies contributed by the Sons of Norway. Organizers anticipate 200 participants when the race is held at Fish Hatchery Park in Hayward on Friday, February 23 at 11 a.m. The Herbert H. Kohl Charities Inc. awarded a grant to the 2001 competitive race.