The Ski Classics Challengers event, Storlirennet, is a long-distance freestyle race taking place this Saturday, April 11, 2026.
Originally planned to start in Storlien, Sweden, and finish in Meråker, Norway, the 2026 edition has been relocated due to snow conditions. The race will now take place on a course of 26.5km at Meråkerfjellet, with start and finish at Grova Ski Center.
Grova Ski Center has hosted several major competitions, including the Norwegian Cross-Country Championships, the Scandinavian Cup, and FIS World Cup events.
The Challengers event is held in freestyle technique. While participants may choose skating, classic, or double poling, the official competition class is in skating technique. In addition to the main race, there is also a non-timed class for recreational skiers and families.
Storlirennet was first held in 1938 and has been organized 66 times, with a longer break from 1990 to 2004. Over the years, the race has attracted several prominent winners. Among the men are Odvar Brå, Tor Arne Hetland, Anders Södergren, Petter Northug, and Emil Iversen. On the women’s side, past winners include Charlotte Kalla, Astrid Øyre Slind, Silje Øyre Slind, Silvana Bucher, Heidi Weng, and Anna Haag.
More information about the event can be found HERE
Storlirennet – Ski Classics Challengers
- Date: April 11, 2026
- Location: Grova Ski Center (for 2026)
- Distance: 26.5km
- Technique: Freestyle
- Website: Storlirennet
- Facebook: Storlirennet
- Instagram: Storlirennet
- Registration: Storlirennet
More information about the event can be found HERE
As the Storlirennet 26.5km freestyle race is a Ski Classics Challengers event, Pro Team registered athletes can collect points for the Ski Classics Champion and Youth competitions in their respective genders.
A list of Ski Classics Challengers events with confirmed dates can be found on the Ski Classics website. The list is updated continuously with new events.
Author: Leandro Lutz
Photo: Storlirennet
