The American Birkebeiner Ski Race ("Birkie"), hosted in rural northwest Wisconsin, is the largest cross country ski race in North America. Cell phone communication on the course is traditionally a challenge due to the many hills, valleys, and dense trees in the area. During past “Birkie” events, first responders have struggled to remain connected along the trails. With a FirstNet SatCOLT (satellite cell on light truck) providing a mobile cellular connection, coverage was not a concern at the 2020 Birkie.