Stone Lake

Barnebirkie and Birkeibeiner: Both races are always held on the last full weekend in February as part of the American Birkebeiner events. I remember one balmy weekend when snow had to be trucked in to make skiing possible for both events. For the children in your life, think about the Barnebirkie. I feel every child should ski it at least once.

Children choose 1, 2 or 3K distances and all finish skiing down Main Street in Hayward (except this year there are variations due to COVID). Hundreds of parents and friends cheer on the young skiers as they see the finish line just ahead. As each child crosses that finish line, a beautiful ribbon with a medal is placed around their neck. The ribbon is grosgrain (not paper) and the medal is metal (not plastic). I was always impressed with this commitment to the standards of a real race.