American Birkebeiner

The first runners across the finish line at Birkie Ridge on Saturday afternoon, October 1, were greeted by cheering fans under a sunny blue sky amidst a backdrop of leaves painted in yellows, greens and golds. Spectators flooded the festival grounds creating an energetic atmosphere for runners and trekkers alike. The breeze was cool, but the pace was hot as finishers blazed across the finish line.

Women’s marathon winner, Corrine Malcolm – current national USA Track and Field champion – finished the marathon with a time of 3:27:17.

“It was such a treat to come home and race on the trails I grew up on. Winning was the icing on the cake! The trails were in great condition and the community presence on the trail and at the finish made it a really special day for me,” said Malcolm. “Now, hopefully, I’ll get to come home and ski the Birkie this winter,” she continued.

(Corrine Malcom winning the marathon. (c) American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation©Randolph)

Men’s marathon winner, Andy Elvester, finished his race in 2:58:58. Malcolm and Elvester both earned $ 800 in cash and prizes as first place marathon finishers.

American Birkebeiner Ambassadors winning

Brian and Caitlin Gregg are Birkie Ambassadors, Olympians, and highly decorated Nordic cross-country skiers. The pair took first place honors in the Birkie Trail Run half-marathon. While at the Birkie Trail Run & Trek, Team Gregg also spent time mentoring young athletes and hosted the 1K kid’s race. May you remember Caitlin Gregg from the winter when Gregg’s fourth American Birkebeiner victory put her in the Birkie record books with the most wins ever, man or woman.

(Caitlin Gregg, half-marathon winner and 4 times American Birkebeiner ski race winner. (c) American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation©Randolph)

Ultra runners

Later in the afternoon the excitement was palpable as two ultra-marathon runners raced to the finish line separated by only moments. The runners started their 61.7-mile journey at 5:30am under dark skies with only stars and headlamps to light their way. They were greeted by cheering family, friends, Birkie Trail Run participants, and spectators, as they crossed the finish line.

Find here some pictures and the results!