The Arctic Circle Race will be held in Sisimiut from March 27 to 29, and the organizers are closely monitoring the weather forecast. When they met on Wednesday, February 19, to take stock, it was not just about the usual preparations.
“We have reserved snow,” says Jens Klaus Lennert with a smile. He has been the chairman of the race for almost 20 years.
However, the joke is quickly replaced by seriousness. The unusually warm winter in West Greenland will not only be felt by the participants in the world's toughest cross-country race. Organizers and volunteers may also face their biggest challenge yet.
“It is unusual. Normally, the route is higher up in the terrain, so even if there is a lack of snow closer to the city, conditions tend to be good further inland. But this year there is also significantly less snow in the terrain. This can make transporting heavy equipment much more difficult, says Jens Klaus Lennert.
Start and route may be changed
Normally, containers and cabins are transported by snowplows when there are good snow conditions. But the limited snow close to the city may mean that this year the organizers must use ATVs and snowmobiles, which can carry much less cargo than snowplows.
The lack of snow may also have a direct impact on the route of the Arctic Circle Race.
The participants are normally seen at the start and finish in front of Taseralik in Sisimiut, where many spectators usually gather. But this year the start area may be moved further inland.
– Both the length and shape of the route may change, depending on how much snow there is at that time.
Several of the fixed sections are unsafe if the conditions do not change.
– We usually use the sea ice in Kangerluarsuk Tulleq on the second day, but it is not yet frozen. There is new ice, but it will be exciting to see how it develops towards the race.
Fewer entries
Normally up to 230 skiers participate in the Arctic Circle Race. So far, between 120 and 130 participants have registered, which is fewer than usual, according to the organizers.
– There are significantly fewer entries from Greenland at this time. The lack of training opportunities is probably one of the biggest reasons, and many are probably also waiting to see if there will be more snow, says Jens Klaus Lennert.
The mild and snowless weather is not only creating uncertainty for the participants in the Arctic Circle Race. The Avannaata Qimussersua dog sled race is also at risk of changes, as we have previously described.
The organizers of the Arctic Circle Race are hoping, as are the participants in Avannaata Qimussersua.
Will the ordered snow arrive on time?
– The shipments have slowed down, so I don't know. No, kidding aside, says Jens Klaus Lennert and laughs.
