North End Classic Cancelled

For the first time in its 24 year history, the North End Classic ski race, presented by the North End Ski Club in Cable, has been cancelled. “As other organizations around the region began cancelling their events,” noted Ron Bergin with the North End Ski Club, “we had our fingers crossed for a “Hail Mary” snowstorm that might rescue this year’s event.” But the forecast suggested otherwise, with continued above normal temperatures and no significant snow on the horizon.

Options were also limited when considering postponing the event, with extended weather uncertainty rendering a postponement not a viable option. An alternate venue was also not an option as the only possibility would be the Birkie Trailhead, where at this point the Birkie is trying to conserve snow, plus the Wisconsin State High School Championships are typically held there on the same weekend as the North End Classic.

The North End Ski Club is extremely disappointed to announce the first-ever cancellation of the event. “Presenting a safe and fun event is our top priority,” adds Bergin, “and sadly we would not be able to do that under the circumstances.” The club is considering holding an evening event open to the public yet this winter to provide an opportunity for skiers and friends to gather and support each other, and make the most of the situation. Details will be forthcoming.

The North End Ski Club is extremely grateful to all of the racers, volunteers, and sponsors who have supported the club and event over the years. Next year’s North End Classic will be held on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025. And mark your calendar for the North End Trail Run on May 25, 2024. For more information about the club, the North End ski trails, and North End events, visit www.northendskiclub.org.

The club extends a big thank you to this year’s event sponsors: Presenting Sponsor: Tamarack Health. Event Sponsors: Borah Teamwear, Rivers Eatery. Platinum Sponsors: Chippewa Valley Bank, New Moon Ski and Bike Shop, Out There Nordic, Start Line Inn/Start Line Services. Gold Sponsor: Essentia Health Pharmacy. Silver Sponsors: Cable Area Chamber of Commerce Cable Chiropractic Clinic, McKinney Realty, United Church of Christ. Bronze Sponsors: Backroads Coffee, Cable Lumber & Home, Cresthill Resort, Delta Diner, Marketplace Foods, Northern Native Plantscapes, Town of Namakagon.

Check out our current trail conditions - CLICK HERE

The North End ski trails are groomed at least twice a week during the week and usually receive a refresher on the skate lane on the weekend. The North End Classic Trail is groomed once a week. Grooming is, of course, dependent on new snow received, lack of new snow, temperatures, equipment operation and volunteer availability. But on any given day, you may expect the main trails to have been groomed within the past 48-72 hours.