What is the point about the Open Track format?
The American Birkebeiner is adding one more day of racing during Birkie Week! Introducing the Open Track experience – same great events, same racecourse, inspiring downtown finish, simply with a more relaxed approach. The Open Track event is for skiers that want to compete against themselves on the famed Birkie Trail. Limited to the first 1000 people, you will experience less crowding, more open trail, and an opportunity to ski with friends and family. It’s a new and exciting way to kick-off the beginning of Birkie Week 2022.
Three Questions about the Open Track Format
ABSF Marketing & Communications Director, Kate Barido.
The point about a ski marathon is to compete against 1000s of other skiers. So what is the point about the open track format?
Last year during 2021, we added an Open Track format to adhere to COVID-19 protocols and social distancing. We received a lot of positive feedback from racers as having a window to start the race allowed for a less stressful start and they were able to ski along with skiers who may be typically assigned to other waves. The Open Track Day also allows for skiers to see the elite finishers on their typical Birkie Saturday—and the Open Track offers the Main Street finish experience!
Do you think, the open track formats will come more and more in the future?
I do think the formats will become a familiar and a more common option. I do not think it will take the place of the traditional Birkie start, however for a segment of skiers who may not be chasing a specific wave, the Open Track option will likely be preferred by them.
Would you personally choose the Open Track or the real Birkie?
Personally, at this point in my life, I’d choose to race the traditional American Birkebeiner on Saturday! I have not done enough Birkies in my life yet and I’d like to see if I can improve my time and my placement overall. I crave race day jitter the suspense and excitement of a huge field of athletes at the start line. Either way, making every participant achieve their preferred Birkie moment is the goal, all while we promote a healthy, active, outdoor lifestyle!
Many Worldloppet races offer an open track format in addition to their traditional main race. Check out all ski marathon events around the globe in our Global Ski Marathon Calendar.
Vlog: Engadin Skimarathon 2021 as open track event
Worldloppet Skier Gunnar travelled to Engadin in winter 2021 to participate in the open track event of Engadin Skimarathon, the Engadin Individual. Check out his experiences and which famous faces he met there:
