Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions (ALE), a leading expedition provider, has announced that it will be organizing cross-country skiing races at Union Glacier for the first time in the upcoming Antarctic season.
“Antarctic Loppet”, derived from the Norwegian long-distance cross-country skiing competition, is set to become a unique cross-country skiing experience offered by ALE during the upcoming 2024/2025 Antarctic season, with tentative dates in January 2025.
“Cross-country skiing has a long and historic tradition in Antarctica,” explains Nick Lewis, Partner at ALE, in a company press release. “Amundsen’s team was of course the first to reach the South Pole and their skiing skills were a key element in their success. We think it’s time to create an experience to celebrate this and educate our guests about this aspect of Antarctica’s history.”
This new five-day experience includes three races of different distances (10 km, 20 km and 50 km) that will take place in the extraordinary landscape of the Ellsworth Mountains in West Antarctica. The event is open to all cross-country skiers who wish to challenge themselves. Participants will also learn about the “heroic era” of Antarctica and be part of modern Antarctic sports history. The travel will be in typical ALE style, with a chartered plane departing from Punta Arenas, Chile, and all guests will be accommodated at ALE’s Union Glacier Camp.
ALE’s exclusive itinerary offers guests the opportunity to learn from specially curated lectures, participate in Antarctic cross-country skiing competitions and take guided excursions to some breathtaking locations on Union Glacier. Personal ski time and a celebratory event round out this experience that honors cross-country skiing as an important aspect of Antarctic history.
From a logistical point of view, Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions is no stranger to the undertaking. The company has been providing expedition support for over 35 years, both for scientific expeditions as part of national Antarctic programs and for commercial ventures. During this time, ALE has grown to become the leading provider of such services. The heart of all logistical services in Antarctica is the “Union Glacier Basecamp” and the nearby airstrip on the blue ice of the glacier. From there, ALE offers the opportunity to climb Mount Vinson, fly to the South Pole, visit an emperor penguin colony or go on an expedition in the spirit of the early explorers. Now also on cross-country skis.
Further information on “Antarctic Loppet” and the preliminary itinerary can be found on the ALE website or requested by email.
Julia Hager, Polar Journal AG
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