Fossavatn Ski Marathon

As the first participants have started to arrive in Ísafjörður, the organizers of Fossavatnsgangan 2023 are working hard to get the tracks ready for this weekend’s 89th installation of the largest ski race in Iceland. 

A total of around 500 participants from 20 countries are registered in the six different Fossavatnsgangan races, with the first three taking place today (Thursday) and three, including the main race, on Saturday. 312 people are registered in the 50 km race. 

The area has seen a substantial amount of rain in the past weeks so the tracks have been partly rerouted and slightly shortened to be able to ensure the best conditions for the race, as well as to ensure being able to start and finish the race at its usual place in Seljalandsdalur valley. 

The 50 km race will be in one approx. 46 km circle. The 25 km races, both traditional and polar, will be approx. 24 km. The 12.5 km race will be approx. 9 km and the 5 km race on Thursday will be approx. 4 km.

The weather forecast for the races is favorable, with calm winds and temperatures around 0°C. Participants should be able to look forward to a pleasant experience. As the weather is quite unpredictable, please follow the Fossavatnsgangan Facebook Channel. There the organizers currently give updates on the weather-, track and waxing-situation.

Worldloppet at Fossavatnsgangan 2023

All Worldloppet Passportholders are invited to a reception in the Westfjords Heritage Museum in Isafjordur. The reception is taking place on Friday evening between 17:00 and 19:00. Of course, you get your Worldloppet Passports stamped after the 25 km race and after the 50 km main event. Stamping will be done in the race office. Another possibility you will have at the cake buffet and also on Sunday in the sportshall.