Merino Muster 2026: Wright defends victory, Kuzima wins first time
The Merino Muster 2026 delivered a fantastic day of cross-country skiing at Snow Farm, bringing together competitors from New Zealand and around the world for one of the southern hemisphere highlights of the Worldloppet calendar.
Excellent snow conditions, committed volunteers and an enthusiastic international field created a memorable atmosphere on Sunday, 23 August. As New Zealand’s member of the Worldloppet family, the Merino Muster once again showed how marathon skiing connects people across continents.
Campbell Wright and Anastasia Kuzmina win the 42 km
In the premier 42 km Merino Muster, Campbell Wright – New Zealand’ Olympic biathlon legend – claimed the men’s victory in an impressive 1:50:44.97.
The women’s race was won by Anastasia Kuzmina (SVK), who crossed the finish line in 1:58:26.85.
New Worldloppet Masters at Snow Farm
For many international participants, however, the Merino Muster is about much more than a finishing time. Once again, skiers used the race to collect an important stamp in their Worldloppet Passport, and the finish at Snow Farm also created new Worldloppet Masters.
The Merino Muster plays an important role in this international journey. As Worldloppet’s New Zealand member race, it gives skiers the opportunity to experience marathon skiing on the other side of the world and adds a truly global dimension to the Worldloppet experience.
“A huge thank you goes to the volunteers, marshals, medical and safety teams, Snow Farm staff, groomers, sponsors and everybody working behind the scenes to make the 2026 event possible.”, says Pip Gillespie – spokesperson of Merino Muster.
