The start of the race. Photo: The Norwegian Embassy

Ski Festival Success

Last updated: 16/02/2010 // Cross-country is gaining ground in Korea with both Skarvenrace in Pyongchang and the International Ski Festival in Yongpyong.

Skarvenrace Korea

The second consecutive Skarvenrace Korea took place on the 30th of January, to the joy of the more than 200 participants.

Skarvenrace 2010 saw a big increase in the number of participants, and a huge improvement in the weather from last year's event. This year's event was held in the Alpensia cross-country stadium and offered tracks of 2, 5 and 10 kilometres in length.

The winner of this years race, Mr Kim. Photo: The Norwegian Embassy

Both professionals and amateurs showed up to enjoy a sun-filled day of cross-country skiing. Park Byeong Joo, the winner of this years race will receive a free ticket to Norway to participate in the original Skarverennet in April. For others it was their first time ever trying Nordic Ski.

The 29th International Ski Festival in Yongpyong

The 28th International Ski Festival in Yongpyong took place on the 5th - 7th of February with both alpine and snowboard events. This year's festival saw Nordic Ski included as a category for the first time.

Norwegians ended up filling the podium in the Nordic Ski category as gold, silver and bronze all went to Norway. The Norwegians had come from all over Korea to participate. With matching sweaters, viking helmets and even some aquavit(a traditional Norwegian spirit), the Norwegians made their presence felt also at the Saturday night banquet.

Norwegian victory at the 28th International Ski Festival in Yongpyong. Photo: Steinar Forberg

Cross-country skiing may still not be as popular as alpine or snowboarding in Korea, but with this kind of enthusiasm from the crowd and contestants it's sure to gain popularity in years to come. We are already looking forward to next year's events!

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Ski Festival Success

The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Seoul