Similar to the Ridderrenn week the Ski for all in Vuokatti is an event open to everyone regardless of ability, disability age and skiing expertise. It is an opportunity to learn and compete.
As the Ridderenn has become an internationally renowned event which has been held for the last 48 years in Beitostolen, Norway. We hope that Ski for all can become a similar phenomena.
It has possibly surpassed the expectations of many and especially its founder: Erling Stordahl, who in 1961 experienced his “great adventure and experience” and later pursued to share this experience amongst many other visually impaired friends. With this 1964 marked the official birth of the Ridderrenn and today the Ridderweek.
In Norway the event counts with the support of the Norwegian military and numerous volunteers who wish to share in the spirit of the event alongside the many athletes who participate.
As a purely amateur event, the Ridderrenn has been a great marker for the encouragement of winter sport in Norway and abroad; amongst many individuals with disabilities. From it many Paralympic medalist has found their calling. Just imagine multiple Paralympian and Paralympic medalist Anne Mette Bredahl of Denmark who first ventured on cross country skis at this particular event. Moreover the Ridderweek Norway has also been inspiration to many elite able bodied athletes who have dazzled over the feats of the disabled skiers. This was never more evident than in the most recent Ridderrenn where multiple World Champion and Olympic medalist Odd-Bjorn Hjelmeset ventured in to skiing the marathon event blindfolded.
Ski for All Purpose and Philosophy
In respect to the founder, Erling Stordahl’s vision, the Ridderrenn is to provide participants with sporting challenges in cross country skiing, biathlon and alpine skiing whilst further enhancing the individual’s experience through natural and cultural experiences.
The Ridderrenn should maintain high organizational quality and encourage first-time and amateur participation. The event is not directly envisaged as a professional elite championship event but it should encourage newcomers to take up sports as means to a better life and overall wellbeing. Albeit its amateur and promotional nature, elite athletes are encouraged to join and have a chance to participate in the promotion of the event through specific activities. They may also serve as good will ambassadors and mentors to the future athletes.
The Ridderrenn should strive to promote and motivate high visibility of sport and leisure for the disabled whilst mobilizing local entrepreneurs, volunteers and organizations to actively contribute to the success of the event as well as serve as a platform of introduction to the local culture through the many possible activities.
Under the Ridderrenn, all participants, guests, officials and area residents are encouraged to participate together in the festivities and the physical challenges of competition. Regardless of your ability or disability, at the Ridderrenweek all can join in the events as individuals or team (i.e. visually impaired and own or assigned guide). Equally important does not simply offer the physical challenges but also gives everyone the possibility to participate in the other events that can range from gastronomic introductions to dancing; from talent shows to a peaceful exhibition.
For More Information contact danny.silva@snowpolis.com | 
