By KATERINA PAUL
Once again, our beloved Kangaroo Hoppet is only two months away!
This year, the event returns on Saturday, 15 August, bringing together skiers from across Australia and around the world for one of the highlights of the Australian cross country skiing season.
There’s plenty happening at this year’s Kangaroo Hoppet, with a few exciting additions for participants both on and off the trails.
The fun begins at bib collection, where every skier will receive a commemorative backpack thanks to the support of Fischer Australia.
The One/Way Hoppet Sprint also returns in 2026 with a different format.
Instead of rewarding outright speed, the challenge will see the male and female skiers who come closest to a predetermined target time over a short sprint section during the 42 km race crowned the winners.
The sprint section will be approximately 100 metres long, with the target time announced during the race briefing, online, and at the Hoppet Shop during bib pick-up.
Prizes are provided by long-time supporters EMC & A-Jays, Australian distributors of Fischer and One/Way.
The popular Fischer Balance Point Awards are also back, recognising the skiers who finish closest to the median time in each of the three Hoppet events.
Both the Sprint and Balance Point Awards will be presented on Saturday evening at Mountain Monk Brewery, with skiers required to be present to receive their prizes.
For skiers taking on events across both Australia and New Zealand, the Antipodes Award once again offers an extra challenge.
Participants who complete both the Kangaroo Hoppet and the Merino Muster in the same season will receive an Antipodes medal, while those who achieve the double five times earn the title of Antipodes Master.
Awards will be presented during the Merino Muster prize giving in New Zealand.
Enter before 4 July to take advantage of the early bird price.
The 42km Kangaroo Hoppet, a member of the prestigious Worldloppet series, is the signature race in the event, while there’s also the 21km Australian Birkebeiner and 7km Joey Hoppet that allows everyone to be part of an international ski event in a safe and fun environment.
Spectators can enjoy the awesome atmosphere in the Falls Creek Nordic Bowl and cheer all the participants along at both the start and finish lines.
For more details, including entry, visit the website at www.hoppet.com.au