ALE Holds Inaugural Cross Country Ski Celebration: The Antarctic Loppet
On Sunday, January 19th Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions (ALE) held the first-ever 10K and 20K timed cross-country skiing events in Antarctica at Union Glacier Camp. Eighteen participants from eleven different nationalities participated.
Due to weather concerns the 50K timed event was cancelled. “It was a difficult decision,” said Nick Lewis, Partner at ALE, “but the risk of cold injury this far from definitive medical care meant we needed to take a prudent approach”.
ALE plans on holding the 10K, 20K, and 50K timed events in the upcoming 2025 season. Official dates for the 2025 Antarctic Loppet will be announced later in the year. Current plans are to hold the timed events in mid-December or early January where there is a higher likelihood of better weather and milder temperatures.
Despite challenges with the 50K timed event, ALE is very pleased with the outcome of the 2024 season’s Antarctic Loppet. “Everyone agreed it was a total success, and all the skiers were extremely satisfied,” said Lewis. “The Antarctic Loppet was created to honor cross-country skiing’s role in the exploration of Antarctica. It was a special moment to hold an event that honors such a pivotal aspect of polar history. This new experience creates a new opportunity for ALE to educate its guests, as well as help them experience this continent in a way many haven’t before”.
In addition to the timed events, Antarctic Loppet skiers enjoyed specially curated lectures and excursions to local points of interest including Elephant’s Head, Charles Peak Windscoop and Drake Icefall.
Timed event results are posted on ALE’s website: https://antarctic-logistics.com/2025/01/27/2024-antarctic-loppet-results/
With more than 35 years of experience, ALE is the premier provider of land-based Antarctic experiences and logistical services. From its blue-ice runway and base camp at Union Glacier, guests can venture to the summit of Mount Vinson, fly to the South Pole, journey to an emperor penguin colony, or attempt an expedition in the spirit of early explorers. ALE also offers a full range of lectures and interpretive materials for guests.
