The original Ridderrennet is held each year at Beitostølen in Norway and has been an important promoter of winter sports for the handicapped since the concept was launched in 1964. Originally limited to blind participants, the event now includes a full week devoted to skiing competitions and events as well as social activities. Around 500 participants from 15 to 20 countries take part each year. This year, China will be added to the list. The participants range between all levels, from highly competitive to those who have never been on skis before.
The participation of the two Chinese athletes will be arranged with the assistance of the Norwegian embassy in Beijing and Ridderrennets Venner. A delegation from Changchun local authorities will also accompany the participants to Beitostølen to gather fresh ideas and new contacts.
Ridderrennet China was held for the fourth time on New Year’s day with over 120 participants from China and Norway. The overwhelmingly positive feedback has boosted plans for staging the event once every year. There is great enthusiasm for the Ridderrennet in China, with considerable local media coverage at this year’s event in Changchun.
It is increasingly important, therefore, to reach members within the community of Chinese handicapped athletes. Direct experience will be an important tool that will allow participants to develop their own ideas and preferences. The embassy in Beijing sees this as a key to many more successful events in Changchun in the coming years.