The Wells Gray Outdoors Club held another successful annual Birchleg winter event on Saturday, February 8 in the Candle Creek Cross Country Ski Trails in Clearwater.
The Birchleg is a cross-country ski race and costume party held annually in Clearwater, hosted by the Wells Gray Outdoors Club. The event takes place on the Candle Creek cross-country ski trails which are maintained by the club.
Skiers from Clearwater and neighbouring communities took to the trails as the weather was ideal, according to organizer Hazel Wadlegger.
The Barriere Outdoor Club (BOC) members were also on hand to enjoy a day of snowy fun. “A huge thank you to the Wells Grey Outdoor Club (in Clearwater), for another fantastic day reenacting the legendary Birkebeiner (Birchleg), “ said Mary MacLennan, vice-president for the BOC
According to legend, these fierce Norwegian warriors wrapped birch bark around their legs to protect them from the snow and in battle. They took on the heroic mission of rescuing the young prince, Haakon Haakonsson, travelling 55 kilometres over two mountain ranges on skis in the dead of winter.
“Yesterday, at the Candle Creek trails, many amazing Vikings with skis in hand, braved the harsh winter to once again, carry the young prince to safety, ensuring he would be crowned King of Norway and end the civil war," said MacLennan. "They were rewarded for their efforts with some great prizes and an amazing Norwegian-style lunch. What a memorable experience!”
Wadlegger said it is always a really happy event and a lot of people come every year.
"It is great to see everyone enjoying themselves,” she added.
Birchleg participants dress as Vikings in a re-enactment of the Norwegian Birkebiener story and the day includes a Norwegian-style lunch and prizes for the best Viking costumes.
If you are interested in learning more about the Wells Gray Outdoors Club you can contact them via email at: info@wellsgrayoutdoorsclub.ca
Or in Barriere contact the Barriere Outdoor Club via vice president, Mary MacLennan at: 778-538-2796
