Since its first edition in 2000, the Südtirol Moonlight Classic Seiser Alm has become a fixed highlight for numerous cross-country skiers from all over the world. This is due, on the one hand, to its unique atmosphere: skiing by moonlight along perfectly prepared tracks, illuminated by thousands of torches, in an almost eerie silence. On the other hand, the outstanding organization under OC President Roberto Gobbo, which is praised year after year by participants, also plays a key role. Those who take part in the Moonlight Classic on the world-famous Seiser Alm lack nothing, and often return the following year.

This is well known among many international cross-country skiing stars from near and far, who, together with hundreds of amateur athletes, make the annual pilgrimage to the start in Compatsch. The Polish cross-country skiing legend Justyna Kowalczyk, for example, is a regular guest at the night race on Europe’s most extensive high alpine plateau. Many Scandinavians also never miss this date. In addition to the scenery, atmosphere, and top-level organization, this is likely also due to the prize money totaling €14,200. This prize money is distributed across four races: a 30-kilometer race and a 15-kilometer race, each for women and men.

New for the next edition, the Moonlight Classic cross-country race has become a Ski Classics Challengers event and is therefore part of one of the most popular race circuits in cross-country skiing.

To ensure everything runs smoothly on Friday, January 30, preparations are slowly but surely getting underway. “I would already like to thank everyone who supports us in organizing this event: volunteer helpers, sponsors, institutions, and my tireless organizing committee,” says President Roberto Gobbo, adding, “I also invite everyone to take part in the Südtirol Moonlight Classic on the Seiser Alm. Registration is available on our website (www.moonlightclassic.info, editor’s note). There, interested participants will also find further information about our classic event.”

The two distances at the Moonlight Classic

The start of the Südtirol Moonlight Classic Seiser Alm is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Hundreds of endurance athletes will set off together from Compatsch in a mass start. Participants share the first twelve kilometers in both the long and short distances. After that, those competing in the 15 km race turn back from Ritsch towards the start area in Compatsch, which also serves as the finish.

The long course leads skiers from Ritsch via the Joch circuit to Goldknopf and Spitzbühl. This is followed by a steep descent back to Ritsch and then the final kilometers back to Compatsch, where hundreds of spectators welcome them. For beginners and recreational skiers, a five-kilometer just-for-fun race without competitive character is also offered, with on-site registration available on race day. Finally, not to be missed is the extensive side program in the heated festival tent, featuring plenty of music and entertainment, where participants can celebrate late into the evening.