Tony Wise Museum of the American Birkebeiner Opens

The museum showcases the history of North America's largest ski race.

The American Birkebeiner brings in thousands of skiers and visitors into the town of Hayward from all around the world.

The Birkie as it’s often called, has become a premier sporting event every winter.

Many say a museum has been long overdue, but now all the history has its very own chalet.

While walking through the doors of the Tony Wise Museum of the American Birkebeiner is like skiing down memory lane for John Kotar.

“It’s quite fascinating to say the least,” said Kotar.

Kotar was one of the thirty-five skiers to start the American Birkebeiner in 1973.

“Nobody knew we were there, nobody knew we existed,” said Kotar.

They had no idea it would grow to bring in thousands of skiers and visitors to Hayward and Cable every February.

“TIt’s now more than just a race,” said Kotar.

Now the history of the Birkie has been captured in the Tony Wise Museum of the American Birkebeiner.

“It’s almost like I’m there again in 1974,” said Kotar.

The museum is named for Tony Wise, a World War II veteran and founder of the Birkie cross country ski race.

“Only someone like Tony could bring this to life,” said executive director Ben Popp.

Visitors can see a scale of the course to a medal Wise got from leaders in Norway.

“There’s a lot here in 1200 feet. This museum will evolve day by day, week by week.” said Popp.

Members of Tony Wise’s family were in attendance for the grand opening of the museum. Many shared stories of Tony and his dedication towards making Hayward a destination spot.

The museum is free and open Monday through Saturday.