WORLDLOPPET SKI FEDERATION

About

A loppet or ski marathon is a long-distance cross-country skiing race that is normally over 40 km (about 24.85 mi). The Worldloppet Ski Federation is the international governing body for the sport with the objective to promote cross-country skiing by taking competitions to many locations around the world. The federation was founded in Uppsala, Sweden, in 1978. Today over 20 long-distance ski races feature in Europe, Asia, America, and Oceania. Each race entry is awarded points based on their finishing position, which is added to a global ranking system. Entries are also categorised according to their age group. Currently there are 12 age levels starting at under 20 and finishing at under 75, making marathon skiing a popular sport for all.  

The season normally starts in the southern hemisphere with Argentina as the nation to host the opening race. Australia and New Zealand follow in quick succession. The calendar then shifts to China in December before the moving onto several race across Europe and North America. For participants who race in 10 different countries, one of which is not in Europe, the title of Worldloppet Master is awarded. Gold Master is for all main races and Silver for shorter races.  

Worldloppet races can easily attract over 10,000 participants, which often necessitates a staggered starting system. Elite racers will always start first, followed by less experienced skiers. Depending on the rules of the race organisers, skiers can either employ a classic or skate-skiing technique. Being a sport for both genders and all age groups, ski marathon racing continues to maintain the mantle as a global sport.  

Worldloppet Ski Federation

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