The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation is proud to announce a two-­year commitment from Swix Sport USA as title sponsor of the American Birkebeiner cross country ski events, starting February 20-23, 2014, and including sole title sponsorship of the American Birkebeiner’s 50K Skate Race on February 22. The American Birkebeiner is the largest ski race in North American and the third largest in the world. Swix Sport Group is the world’s leading supplier of ski wax, the market leader for ski poles, and a leading supplier of sportswear and accessories— serving alpine, ski jumping, and cross country skiing. “For years we have been working on becoming the title sponsor of the American Birkebeiner, the premier Nordic race in North America, and it has all come together. Our commitment to the event includes co-­branding a collection of Birkie Technical Apparel, a full merchandizing program, an exclusive Swix Concept Area within the Birkie Expo, and outfitting Birkie volunteer race chiefs, just a few creative means of building a long-­lasting relationship with the organization,” said Steven Poulin, President and CEO, Swix Sport USA. The Birkie, now gearing up for its 41st annual event in 2014, is still growing and attracting skiers from 48 states and 21 countries. The draw for Swix and other sponsors is that beyond this milestone event every February, the Birkie has an active following for its year-round events, programs, education, and outreach, which provides exposure for sponsor products and services year round as well. “We are very excited about this partnership with Swix. It is an exceptional company and very forward thinking. We both see great potential for new ways to support our skiers and grow the reach of the sport,” said Ben Popp,  Executive Director, American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. “Its global presence, focus on elite and citizen skiers alike, and range of products and services make Swix a great match for the Birkie,” said Susan Kendrick, Marketing/PR Director, American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation. “We’re all looking forward to working together. This relationship is a great addition to the Birkie’s offering of year round outdoor recreation, health, and fitness.” About the American Birkebeiner The Birkie is a year-round lifestyle choice for thousands of outdoor fitness enthusiasts of all levels. From its signature ski race - the legendary American Birkebeiner - The Birkie has grown into an exciting array of fitness and recreational opportunities. The 88-­kilometer Birkie Trail system attracts skiers, runners, bikers, trekkers, and hikers, from casual day-trippers to elite, international superstars. Located in Hayward and Cable, Wisconsin, the Birkie is now an outdoor sports mecca, a series of great races, a fitness destination, and a lifestyle. Ski.Run.Bike.Live!About Swix The Swix Sport Group is the world’s leading supplier of ski wax under the brands Swix and Toko. Further, the company is also the market leader for ski poles under the brand name Swix. The company is a significant supplier within textiles for the sporting goods industry under the brand names Swix, Bavac, Ulvang and Lundhags. The mother company, Swix sport AS, is situated in Oslo and at Lillehammer. The pole production is located in Lithuania. The Norwegian daughter company Original AS is the leading supplier of team wear in Scandinavia through the brands Kalas and Swix. The products are distributed through daughter companies in Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, the US and Japan. Sales to other markets are handled through distributors. Swix Sport AS is 100% owned by Ferd AS.