41st American Birkebeiner Kicks Off in Hayward

HAYWARD - More than 30 miles of bare trails have been transformed for north Americas largest cross country ski event.

The 41st annual American Birkebeiner kicked off with 1,000 future Birkie champions hustling their way down Main Street in Hayward, Wisconsin.

"Just being in the race and having the real atmosphere around you when everybody's doing it together and striving towards a goal to get to the end," Barnebirkie Racer Emma Stattelman said.

This year more than 13,000 elite skiers will take on the Nordic challenge.

"This is the most we've ever had in the races," American Birkebeiner Executive Director Ben Popp said.

Thirty to fifty thousand people from all over the world will fill the area to watch it all unfold.

"Gets everybody out of the house,” said spectator Jason Melton. “I think everybody's sick of being cooped up inside."

Organizers believe this year will be the races biggest turnout ever.

"Sochi Olympics gets people excited, Nordic skiing is growing, an active lifestyle is really important,” said Popp. “So I think more people are getting out and enjoying our winter fun."

Organizers also tell FOX 21 the whopper of a snowstorm in the forecast will affect the race logistically, but they're well prepared.

"The grooming staff is ready, the race staff has got snow plows on the ready,” said Popp.

With so many outdoor fitness enthusiasts coming to town a $5–8 million economic impact is expected.

Events and activities for the Birkie will run until Sunday.