Oct
5
2011

2012 National Marathon

Are you ready? As Bemidji, MN will host the 2012 National Marathon Championships. As competitors know, “…this is the best lake ice in North America, this race, this ice should be the focal point of the marathon season.”

We are committed to making your experience in Bemidji an enjoyable one. Look at the links to the right. Become our fan on Facebook, follow us on twitter or just keep checking this website for more information. Registration and sponsorship information will be coming soon.

Jan
10
2011

2011 US Marathon Cancelled

Dear Skaters,

I am sorry to have to inform you that we have had to cancel this year’s US Speedskating National Marathon which was due to be held on Saturday, February 19 and Sunday, February 20 in Bemidji, Minnesota.

Following consultation with the individuals who prepare the ice for the marathon, it was determined that the early snowfall and the effect of persistent snowstorms, has caused the ice to become insulated to such an extent that it would pose a risk to the skaters, vehicles, and spectators. The current conditions also make gaining access to the oval virtually impossible for both drivers and pedestrians alike.

We are currently working with the organizers of the North American Marathon in Lake Morey, Vermont in order to come up with an alternative option for the US National Marathon as they will be hosting the North American Marathon on February 11 and 12, 2011. If you are interested in attending the North American Marathon, you may gain access to the event information and registration at http://www.marathonskating.org

If you have sent in your application for the race, you will receive a refund of your fees. I will be returning your application, including check(s) as I receive them.

Finally, on behalf of the Pionner Speedskating Club of Bemidji, I would like to apologize for the cancellation, especially to those of you who have already made travel and accommodation plans. Unfortunately, these were circumstances which were beyond our control but we intend to request hosting privileges for next year’s US National Marathon.

Yours sincerely,

Chantal Cermak
Race Director

Aug
24
2010

See You in 2011

Are you ready? We just received word that Bemidji, MN will host the 2011 National Marathon Championships. As competitors know, “…this is the best lake ice in North America, this race, this ice should be the focal point of the marathon season.”

We are committed to making your experience in Bemidji an enjoyable one. Follow us on Facebook and become a Fan and keep checking this website for more information.

Just so you are aware, all Beaver Sport Teams are home that weekend. While it hasn’t been confirmed yet with Bemidji State Alumni- these weekends typically serve as the Athletic Hall of Fame and Alumni Athlete Weekend, equivalent to Fall Homecoming.

What does this mean for skaters? Hotel rooms. Bemidji is a small town and many times (especially when Beaver Hockey is home) that means that the town of Bemidji has no vacancy. Check out the hotel page under the ’2011 Marathon’ heading for more information.