The Birchleggings Club held its annual post-Birkie awards breakfast on February 22 in Hayward, Wisconsin, recognizing long-time participants in the American Birkebeiner cross-country ski event. Skiers who have completed 20 or more Birkebeiners or Kortelopets received plaques for their achievements. Special Tony Wise Birkie Spirit awards went to Ernie St. Germaine and Steve Carmazon for their contributions to the event and the sport.
The Birchleggings Club, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the American Birkebeiner, organized its yearly awards breakfast following the ski marathon. The event took place on Sunday, February 22, at The Steakhouse and Lodge in Hayward, a location in Sawyer County, Wisconsin.
During the breakfast, club officers presented plaques to skiers who have finished 20 or more Birkebeiners—the 58-kilometer classic race—or the shorter 29-kilometer Kortelopet. These honors celebrate the endurance and commitment of participants in this prominent nordic skiing competition, which draws athletes to the Cable and Hayward area each winter.
Among the recipients, Ernie St. Germaine of Couderay stood out as the only individual to have completed 50 Birkebeiners. He received a Tony Wise Birkie Spirit award, named in recognition of contributions to the event's growth. Similarly, Steve Carmazon of Minneapolis was awarded for his role in advancing the American Birkebeiner and cross-country skiing overall. Bob Britz presented the award to Carmazon, with club president Paul Thompson applauding.
The American Birkebeiner, often called the Birkie, is one of the largest cross-country ski races in North America, emphasizing community and the winter sports tradition in northern Wisconsin. The Birchleggings Club's efforts help sustain its mission through such recognitions.
