 Well it's a tradition that spans 36 years and attracts skiers from all over the region. And this week's Northwood's adventure, our Josh Peterson takes a look at why the event's deep traditions continue to bring people back after all these years. After months of preparation, the horn sounded and skiers from all over the region glided their way across the countryside of the Buna Vista Forest. The Minnesota Finlandia has been a winner tradition in the Bemidji area for 36 years and this year was extra special because it was the first time in four years skiers got to enjoy the full course. The racers prefer to do the full 25k because the east side is more gradual rolling and it gives them a chance to take a break and the rest up before they hit the real hilly side. Besides its deep history and rich traditions what draws people to the Minnesota Finlandia is the terrain and beauty of the course. Beauty mixed with tradition is one of the reasons that many of those involved with the race keep coming back year after year. The course is great and we almost always have really good and it's like I said in a way it's small. For some cross country skiing is a family sport. For the Ellert sins from Albert Lee the Minnesota Finlandia provided father and son a chance to compete together while mom enjoys the trip to the north country cheering her family on to victory. Keeping the passion for the sport with his dad so it's really fun to see them ski together and support the sport. We love you know gets you through Minnesota winters having having a hobby like this and a passion like this they train all year round together. For those competing the full course is an enjoyable challenge and we'll be back next year to defend their title. The trails are phenomenal I mean but it's hard to argue when you got a blue sky day. I mean everything looks pretty good but this trail is really fun some challenging hills. With skiers continuing to make history each year the tradition of the Minnesota Finlandia will continue for years to come. With this week's Northwood's adventure in Bemidji, Josh Peterson, Lakeland News. Beautiful day for that. It was that was before the snow we got quite a bit of snow since that time. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland news please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.