The Arctic Race of Norway Back For 2017

Returning to the island of Andørja will take the Arctic Race of Norway back to its roots for its fifth edition this August. For the occasion, the course will once again feature splendid scenery but also a tougher race than in past years. The route that will lead the riders to Tromsø will not be easy and three stages should be best-suited for punchers who can thrive on short uphill finishes.

Thor Hushovd recceed the four stages alongside Arctic Race of Norway founder and director, Knut Erik Dybdal:

“The finish in Narvik might suit a sprinter, but a puncher or even a climber could put in a successful attack and hold on to a slender advantage until the finish line.”

Before this, the venue for the start of the Arctic Race of Norway will be the island of Andørja, where the idea to create one of the northern-most professional races in the world first emerged. Furthermore, the Norwegian Air-Force will be in action the following day during the sprinter friendly stage two, with an air show near the finish at Bardufoss airport.

During stage three, the riders will have to stay focused and not be distracted by the wonderful Lyngen Alps as they near the uphill finish at Finnvikdalen. This last climb could go a long way to determine the general classification but the finish in Tromsø will be the final decider for the GC battle, according to the former World Champion from Norway.

“The race will be hard to control, the riders will be tired and the difficult climb to the finish line will determine who will wear the leader’s jersey on the final podium of the race.”

There is little doubt that the large crowd will show its unique enthusiasm and cheer the riders on as it did in 2014.

As the Arctic Race of Norway crosses the Norwegian fjords, the peloton will be in awe of the spectacular scenery. What better way to remember a fantastic race, especially for one rider, who will leave Norway with… 500kg of Norwegian salmon!