After being put on hold for 132 years, the 220-kilometer long cross country ski race, Nordenskiöldsloppet, is now back. The race, which both starts and finishes in Jokkmokk, will be held on April 10th. The polar explorer Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld organized the original race back in 1884, to prove that it was physically possible to ski 220 kilometres within 24 hours. Back then, there were only a few brave contestants. Today, there are already hundreds of entrants, who have decided to see if they can handle the ski sport’s toughest challenge up to date.
The fact that it is both the longest and toughest skiing challenge in the world might intimidate a lot of people, but as a matter of fact, the interest has really exceeded expectations. More than 400 skiers were pre-registered before the official registration opened in November. The race is open for both elite skiers and enthusiasts – as long as you are ready for a real challenge.
The track is nearly identical to the one from 1884. From Purkijaur just outside Jokkmokk to Kvikkjokk, where the contestants will turn and go back again. The total distance provides only 360 meters of height difference and goes across the ice at some of the frozen lakes around Luleå River. The race will be performed in classic style of grooved terrain.
Back in 1884, the 3rd of April, there were 18 Sami prepared to ski the 220 kilometres. After 21 hours and 22 minutes, with rest included, Pavva-Lasse Nilsson made it to the finish line. Since then, no one has managed to repeat the feat. This time, the maximum time to reach the finish line is set to 30 hours. There will be electronic timing and tracking, making it possible to follow all of the participants throughout the race. Along the track, there will also be 25 water and food stations, providing the contestants with the energy required – because this race will require a lot of energy.
From Stockholm to Visby
During the race, the contestants will travel a distance equal to the one between Stockholm and Visby. This is the same distance as 2,4 times Vasaloppet or as much as 5,2 times a marathon. If you manage to work your way through it, you will burn the energy equivalent to 26 Swedish semlor (really fat, Swedish buns) or 14 Big Mac & company meals. The energy that you generate could also be used to charge your cell phone for nearly 3000 hours or to heat a sauna for 180 minutes. Pretty impressive figures
Together with the skiers, the spectacular history of the race and the beautiful landscape of Lapland, Nordenskiöldsloppet is an extraordinary challenge and an experience of a lifetime. Sign up for the race here.
