{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Behind the Birkie with Executive Director Ben Popp","description":"The American Birkebeiner is so much more than a ski race\u2014it provides an opportunity for Nordic skiers of all ages and abilities to unite as a community and celebrate our sport. Cross Country Skier podcast host Peter Graves talks with Birkie Executive Director Ben Popp about what it takes to put on the most iconic cross country ski race in the U.S. They also discuss race founder Tony Wise\u2019s legacy, which included building and operating the Telemark Lodge and its associated alpine and Nordic ski trails. Following the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation\u2019s purchase of the historic property last year, Popp fills us in about the exciting plans for its revival, including the possibility of a World Cup race in 2024. This episode of the Cross Country Skier Podcast is possible thanks to the support of Madshus Nordic Skis. It\u2019s also possible thanks to support from our listeners\u2014if you like what you hear and would like to hear more, please make a contribution.","author_name":"The Cross Country Skier Podcast","author_url":"https:\/\/CrossCountrySkier.com\/Podcast","html":"