Kangaroo Hoppet

Kangaroo Hoppet 2023: Unfavorable Snow Conditions Force Event Cancellation

In a regrettable turn of events, the highly anticipated 2023 Kangaroo Hoppet, a hallmark of cross-country skiing in Australia and a significant part of the Worldloppet calendar, has been canceled. The decision, influenced by the snow conditions on the course and the imminent weather forecast, was made by the Kangaroo Hoppet Jury in order to prioritize fairness and safety.

Worldloppet Passport Stamping still possible

As there are many international skiers who already have done a long journey to visit Falls Creek and to collect another stamp in their Worldloppet Passport, the organizers and Worldloppet have decided to offer Passport stamping under the following conditions:

1. Skiers must ski a minimum distance of 21 km for the Kangaroo Hoppet (gold race) and 10.5 km for the Australian Birkebeiner (silver race).
2. This must be done on Friday 25 August or Saturday 26 August, at Falls Creek cross country ski trails
3. Skiers must record it with an activity tracker.  e.g. Apple Watch, Polar Garmin, etc. 
4. Skiers can present their passport and their activity record at the race office in Mount Beauty, or at the Social Evening on Saturday night at West Peak Hotel in Mount Beauty.
5. Skiers who are unable to get their passport stamped in Australia should email their activity record to [email protected] 

Adapting Plans: Alternative Activities for Cross-Country Skiing Enthusiasts

While the main event is off, participants and supporters can still make the most of the situation:

• Refunds: All registered participants can expect complete entry fee refunds within four weeks, underscoring the organizers’ commitment to fairness.
• Hoppet Race Shop: Open on select days for the collection of event merchandise, offering participants the chance to hold onto a piece of the Kangaroo Hoppet spirit.
• Worldloppet Masters Reception: Scheduled at Howmans Gap Alpine Centre on Friday at 4:30 PM, this gathering embodies the global cross-country skiing camaraderie.
• Saturday Night Social Evening: The West Peak Hotel’s Brewer Lounge invites attendees to socialize and share their passion from 7 PM onward, connecting cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
• Skiing Opportunities: Though the race is canceled, skiing still thrives in the Ruined Castle – Mt McKay area, where captivating vistas of the High Plains await.

While the Kangaroo Hoppet Team deeply regrets this year’s cancellation, they’re steadfast in their determination to return stronger in the following year. The team extends their gratitude to participants, supporters, and volunteers who remain devoted to upholding the essence of cross-country skiing in Australia and the Worldloppet community.

Next stage: The Worldloppet circuit is traveling on to Merino Muster

Even tough the cancellation of the Australian Worldloppet race is hurting, the next stage is just waiting: Next weekend, the Merino Muster is taking place in New Zealand. The following movie shows, what you could experience, when traveling to Wanaka/New Zealand, to the Merino Muster.