Icebug Birkie Trail Run: Participants Brave the Rain for a Memorable Event

Hayward, Wis. – September 25, 2023 – The 2023 Icebug Birkie Trail Run, which took place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, proved to be an unforgettable experience despite the rainy conditions. Runners from across the midwest gathered to test their mettle on the challenging trails of the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF), and their determination shone brightly through the light rain.

Throughout the day, participants were treated to a unique blend of natural beauty as the fall colors were on full display, creating a stunning backdrop for the event. Despite the wet course, warm temperatures and high spirits prevailed among the runners, making the 2023 Icebug Birkie Trail Run a remarkable success.

2023 Icebug Birkie Trail Run Results (age group results at www.birkietrailrun.com):

Marathon – Women’s

  1. Josie Nelson – 4:05:50
  2. Anna Curtis – 4:27:00
  3. Amber Hardwig – 4:36:03

Marathon – Men’s

  1. Evan Wetzel – 3:27:31
  2. Sam Holt – 3:53:06
  3. Chris Ploenzki – 4:22:23

Half Marathon – Women’s

  1. Kristen Monahan – 1:49:50
  2. Margie Nelson – 1:57:03
  3. Rosa Bixler – 1:57:22

Half Marathon – Men’s

  1. Jeffrey Quednow – 1:33:30
  2. Ben Lewer – 1:34:13
  3. Jacob Lockner – 1:40:40

5k – Women’s

  1. Erin Schmitt – 23:47
  2. Elsie Myers – 24:40
  3. Katie Langer – 26:23

5k – Men’s

  1. Devon Byers – 20:40
  2. Liam Langer – 20:44
  3. Davis Rolstad – 22:26

3-Person Marathon Relay Champions

  • Women’s – TCSC-1
  • Men’s – Ty’s Orange Snack
  • Co-Ed – Street Operations
  • Women’s Masters – Gopher It, Team of 3
  • Men’s Masters – Team AARP
  • Co-Ed Masters – Old Speed Goats

6-Person Marathon Relay Champions

  • Women’s – We Love Hills
  • Men’s – Full Moon
  • Co-Ed – 99 Bananas
  • Women’s Masters – Seeley Striders
  • Men’s Masters – Slabahdabahdeux
  • Co-Ed Masters – Nelson Lake JV Squad

Race Director, Kristy Maki, expressed her gratitude to all the participants, volunteers, and sponsors who made the event possible. “Despite the less-than-ideal weather, the trail run was a testament to the resilience and determination of our running community. We were thrilled to see so many passionate runners take on this challenging course and experience the breathtaking beauty of the fall season in this region.”

The Icebug Birkie Trail Run has become an annual tradition, drawing runners of all levels and ages who seek a unique and memorable race experience. The event promotes fitness, outdoor exploration, and a sense of camaraderie among participants.

The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, which hosts the Icebug Birkie Trail Run, is dedicated to supporting healthy, active lifestyles and the preservation of natural landscapes for future generations. They would also like to extend their gratitude to the numerous sponsors that made this event possible:

Title Sponsor: Icebug – Swedish Traction Footwear

Presenting Sponsors:

  • Carlson, MD – Presenting Sponsor of the Marathon
  • Vibes Bakery – Presenting Sponsor of the Marathon Relay
  • Anderson Maple Syrup – Presenting Sponsor of the Half Marathon
  • LEKI Poles – Presenting Sponsor of the Nordic Trek
  • Kemps – Presenting Sponsor of the 5k Run/Walk
  • Hayward Area Memorial Hospital – Presenting Sponsor of the Kids 1K and Dive for the Dirt obstacle course

Supporting Sponsors:

  • Athletic Brewing Company – Official NA Beer of the Birkie
  • Backroads Coffee – Official Coffee of of the Birkie
  • Ariens – Official sno-thro and lawn care equipment of the Birkie
  • UnTapped – Official Fuel & Hydration of Year-Round Birkie Events
  • FITS Socks
  • Fluid Health and Fitness
  • Lynn’s Custom Meats and Catering
  • Timber Ford and Timber Marine

For more information about the event and the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, please visit www.birkie.com or contact Blair Flickinger, Marketing Director, at blair.flickinger@birkie.com.

Posted September 25, 2023 at 12:00 pm