Runners eager for a pre-winter fitness challenge are invited to enter the 5th Annual American Birkebeiner Trail Run coming up on Saturday, Sept. 22, in Hayward, Wisc. More than 100 runners participated last year on a crisp, colorful fall morning, and organizers are expecting even higher numbers this year. The event includes a 26.2 mile marathon relay, an individual 13.1 mile half-marathon, and a 5K fun run. All events take place on the hilly Birkie Trail at one of the most beautiful times of the year in the Hayward area. It's a chance to test your endurance and get ready for the "Who's Your Daddy?" of North American Nordic events. The Birkie will attract 8,000 cross-country skiers to northern Wisconsin in February to participate in this continent's largest Nordic race. Call (715) 634-5025 for more information.