'KIKKAN' — A film chronicling the life of an Olympic champion, cancer survivor, and active mom
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — From her debut in Salt Lake City to a decisive sprint finish in Pyeongchang, Kikkan Randall defined her career through Olympic aspirations. Immediately following a gold-medal performance in PyeongChang she received a cancer diagnosis, and barely had a chance to catch her breath before finding herself navigating life as a single mother.
The film "KIKKAN" — presented by Fischer Skis US, LL Bean, and Providence Alaska — chronicles the life of the five-time Olympian from childhood through her U.S. Ski Team career and her return to Alaska.
“I’m excited to share this film with the world. Coming off such a roller coaster of highs and lows, this has been a unique opportunity to stop and reflect upon all the key people and environments that have shaped my story thus far,” says Randall. “I hope everyone who sees the film finds a piece of themselves in the story that helps uncover their strengths and inspiration to persevere.”
The 46-minute film was produced by Stirl and Rae Media Haus, based out of Penticton, British Columbia. Having produced several documentaries that highlight athletes’ stories, as well as a short video series with Fischer and Randall, Matthew Clark, Stirl and Rae’s director, jumped at the opportunity to produce KIKKAN. “It was a joy to work on Kikkan's story but, in the same breath, quite daunting,” says Clark. “Kikkan helped to shape the U.S. Ski team for 20 years. Her ability to focus on what was right in front of her with all the external variables she came up against was a testament to her character and the team she built around her.”
Throughout her career, Kikkan has been a valuable partner with each of the presenting sponsors.
“Providence Alaska is honored to sponsor the film 'KIKKAN' as part of our ongoing partnership with Kikkan Randall,” said Ella Goss, MSN, RN, chief executive, Providence Alaska. “Providence strives to promote health and wellness in our community and provide world-class health care close to home. Our caregivers were honored to treat Kikkan during her cancer journey. Following her treatment for breast cancer, Kikkan has been a tireless advocate for cancer screening and prevention, and we are thrilled to support her in those efforts.”
A full trailer for "KIKKAN" can be found here, and the online premiere is scheduled to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8. Additionally, several in-person screenings are scheduled across the country with proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society, National Nordic Foundation, and other local charities.
Film Screening Schedule:
- Crested Butte Performing Arts Center, Crested Butte, Colo. — Feb. 3
- Capri Theater, Minneapolis, Minn. — Feb. 17
- TK, Hayward, Wisc. — Birkie Week
- Bear Tooth Theatrepub, Anchorage, Alaska — Feb. 29 and March 6 (tickets)
- Open Source Studios, Bend, Ore. — March 8
For more information visit https://www.kikkan.com/film/ or contact Danny Kuzio at dk@pressforwardpr.com.
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About Kikkan Randall
Kikkan Randall is a world-champion cross-country skier, and a trailblazing role model for female athletes around the world. After she retired in 2018, she faced her biggest challenge yet. With the love and support of her family, Kikkan was able to add cancer to the list of challenges she’s overcome in her lifetime. Now, when she’s not inspiring those facing the similar challenges or spending quality time outside with her son, she’s advocating for getting more people outside, onto skis and into living happier, healthier, more active lives. Learn more about Kikkan at kikkan.com.
About Fischer Sports
Fischer Sports GmbH is the global leader in Nordic skiing and one of the world's leading brands in Alpine skiing, known for innovation and cutting-edge technology. Fischer is also one of the largest manufacturers of high-quality ice hockey sticks. Fischer's vision is to be the winter athlete's brand of choice through outstanding products, created for everlasting moments and new levels of individual performance. The privately held company employs 1500 individuals who share a passion for and dedication to winter sports. Fischer Sports GmbH was founded in 1924 in Ried im Innkreis, Austria, where the global headquarters is still located. Manufacturing takes place there and in Ukraine. Learn more at FischerSports.com
About Providence Alaska
Providence Alaska is part of Providence, a not-for-profit network of hospitals, care centers, health plans, physicians, clinics, home health services, affiliated services, and educational facilities. For more information about Providence, visit providence.org/about/alaska.