Kangaroo Hoppet becomes part of the Ski Classics Challengers circuit with a 42-kilometre race in freestyle technique in Falls Creek, Australia.
Kangaroo Hoppet is a long-distance skiing event held in Falls Creek for over 30 years, and now joins the Ski Classics Challengers series as their first event in Australia on August 24, 2024.
“Every August, on the fourth Saturday, Falls Creek becomes a global cross-country skiing hub, welcoming enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels to the Kangaroo Hoppet international ski marathon.”
Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of Australia’s Alpine National Park, the first ever Ski Classics Challengers event in Australia unfolds on Fall Creek’s 60km network of groomed trails, meandering through snow gum trees and expansive plains, offering a unique cross-country skiing experience.
“The 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, a long-time member of Worldloppet series is now also a part of the Ski Classics Challengers series. The Hoppet attracts a mix of elite racers together with passionate cross-country skiers from all around the world who enjoy the sense of achievement that comes from completing Australia’s premier cross-country ski race.”
Local Organizing Committee is pleased to be joining the Ski Classics Challengers series:
“The Hoppet is a spectacular and challenging marathon over the Bogong High Plains beyond Falls Creek. For over 30 years the Hoppet has been enjoyed by skiers of all standards and is the highlight of the Australian ski season. Now, as a Ski Classics Challengers event, it will be reached by an expanded international audience of both skiers who want to travel ‘Down Under’ and viewers who follow Ski Classics around the world,” says Sandra Paul, Chief of Race.
“Joining Ski Classics is an exciting step forward for our race,” says Hoppet Chairman Allan Marsland. “While the Kangaroo Hoppet has become well known to citizen skiers taking part in Worldloppet over many years, this partnership will raise awareness of the race to the Ski Classics Pro Team skiers and their fans who follow the series. And the presence of these elite skiers on the start line will be an exciting addition to the atmosphere and excitement of the event for our local Aussie skiers.”
Events for All
For those who don’t feel up to the challenge of the longer distance, the 21km Australian Birkebeiner and 7km Joey Hoppet allow skiers of all ages and abilities to be part of an international ski event in a safe and fun environment.
Plan your Trip to Australia
Australia is a vast country, and a trip ‘down under’ is on the travel wish list of many northern hemisphere skiers. After skiing the Hoppet down in the southeast corner of the country, it is only a short three hour plane trip from Melbourne to a completely different season on the beaches and coral reefs of north Queensland or to the deserts and stunning landscapes of the ‘red centre.’
