Swix signs as title sponsor of American Birkebeiner Ski Events

Thu, Jul  11, 2013 - By Andy Canniff and Susan Kendrick

HAYWARD, Wisconsin (July 10, 2013) – 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.”

The following events are included in the American Birkebeiner's race week events in February and are inividually presented by the following sponsors, in addition to Swix as the title sponsor of the Birkie ski events:

SWIX American Birkebeiner Ski Events