Greenlandic “Iron man” South Greenland’s breathtaking scenery provides the setting for the Greenland Adventure Race, which can best be described as a Greenlandic version of "Iron man" – though of course with kayaking instead of swimming.
The competitors are thus sent off on five days of gruelling endeavour where they have to alternate between running, cycling and sailing in kayak. Competitors will meet glaciers, rivers, mountains and fjords on the route, as well as experiencing cultural attractions such as Norse ruins, the settlements of Qassiarsuk and Igaliku and several sheep-holding stations.
Stage descriptions On the first stage, which is “only” 20 kilometres (12½ miles) long, the competitors run over a glacier before crossing a river of melt water. The stage also includes rappelling. The second stage consists of 50 km (31 miles) of mountain biking, where this robust bike is really put through its paces.
The third stage is regarded as being the hardest. The run, which ends in the town of Narsaq, has a length corresponding to just over a marathon distance – namely 43 kilometres (27 miles) – and the route includes several mountain passes at heights of almost 1000 metres (3300 feet).
The fourth stage comprises kayaking in the fjords between the towns of Narsaq and Qaqortoq. At certain points the kayak has to be carried over land. On the fifth and final stage, running is again on the programme, although this time “only” around 30 kilometres (19 miles).
Mountain biking in lush valleys
Next Greenland Adventure Race
The Greenland Adventure Race is made up of teams of two – i.e. everyone has a partner. The race organisers ensure that competitors that are registered alone are always given a partner. The race is divided into categories of woman/woman, woman/man and man/man.
Greenland Adventure Race usually takes place in September. You can get more information about the race by contacting the organisers of the Greenland Adventure Race at info@gar.gl
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