Established in 1935, the Fossavatn Ski Race is one of the longest running sport events in Iceland. It is also by far the biggest ski race in the country, although in a country of such a small population, “big“ means you can expect around 150 participants, a mixture of racers and popular skiers. The race always takes place in end of April or beginning of May, giving cross-country skiers a nice addition to their season.

In 2004, a new main distance of 50 km was launched, added to the traditional 20 km, 10 km and 7 km. All distances are done in classic style. For the main race there are four age groups for men and women: 16-34, 35-49, 50-65 and 66 and older. It is also possible to participate in a team competition where three skiers, racing over the same distance, make one team regardless of age or gender. The combined time of the three individuals makes the time for the team. For the most ambitious racers, there are three sprintgates along the way, where a moderate sum of money is on offer.

As mentioned before, the Fossavatn Ski Race was established in 1935. In the forties and fifties the race was cancelled 14 times.

The most successful Fossavatn racer ever is Kristjá¡n Rafn Guðmundsson, who in the sixties and seventies won the race 12 times. Now in his late fifties, Guðmundsson is still a regular top 10 finisher at the Fossavatn Ski Race.

The racers in the Fossavatn ski Race have through the years been predominantly Icelanders. Still, a handful of internationally recognized cross-country stars have graced the race with their presence, the most notable of whom is Pål Gunnar Mikkelsplass from Norway.

Mikkelsplass attended the Fossavatn Ski Race in 1985, while he was still an elite racer in the Norwegian World Cup team. Mikkelsplass, though, was beaten by his brother Eilef by one second, and Eilef’s time of 51,31 minutes still stands as the track record for the 20 km race. That time will be difficult to beat as this was before skating was prohibited in the race. Running in classical style, it would normally take the top racers 65-75 minutes to finish, depending on weather and snow conditions.

On your arrival at Reykjavík (Keflavík) international airport you can rent a car and drive the 490 km to Ísafjörður, but you should expect the journey to take no less than seven hours. Another option is to take the flight from Reykjavík domestic airport, at the heart of the city. Air Iceland has two daily flights to Ísafjörður, and it only takes around 40 minutes. On your arrival in Ísafjörður you can either rent a car or use the public transport. The town of 3.500 people is small enough for you not to need a car for your basic needs, but you might want to take some time to explore the surroundings of the town. Note that transportation will be provided for racers on racing day as well as the last two days before the race for those who want to try the tracks. Ísafjörður offers ample accommodation opportunities either in the local hotel or in guesthouses.