Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions we hear most often about Ridderrennet and our events. Registration, prices and accommodation during Ridderweek have their own answers on the Ridderweek FAQ.
What is Ridderrennet?
Ridderrennet is the association behind Ridderweek at Beitostølen, the world's largest annual winter sports week for people with visual and physical impairments. It began as a single ski race in 1964, started by Erling Stordahl. Today the association is a global movement fighting loneliness and exclusion through fellowship, leadership and mastery. Read more in our story.
What is the difference between Ridderrennet and Ridderweek?
Ridderweek is the full week of activities at Beitostølen, with alpine, cross-country, biathlon, snowboarding and more. Ridderrennet is the ski race itself during the week, and also the name of the association behind it all. Ridderuka is the Norwegian name for Ridderweek.
What role has the royal family played?
The royal family has been in the tracks from the very first day. King Olav opened Ridderrennet in April 1964, and he was not content to wave the first two participants off from Valdresflya. He put on skis himself and went the whole way down to Beitostølen, together with Crown Prince Harald, who later skied the race as a companion for a deafblind participant. The bond has lasted more than sixty years, and King Haakon VIII became the race’s patron while crown prince. Read more in our history and in Letters in a hand, our tribute to King Harald V.
When is Ridderweek 2027?
Ridderweek 2027 takes place from 7 to 14 March 2027 at Beitostølen, and registration opens in October. See the Ridderweek pages for the programme, prices and accommodation.
What is the Children's Ridderweek?
The Children's Ridderweek is an outdoor school week for children with disabilities aged 10 to 16, focused on basic skiing skills and the Children's Ridderrennet race. The week brings together up to 50 children and takes place from 17 to 23 January 2027 at Beitostølen. Read more on the Children's Ridderweek pages.
What is Riddercamp?
Riddercamp is an activity camp for young people and young adults aged 15 and over with visual or physical impairments. In the mountains above Beitostølen the programme offers peak hikes, paddling, riding and campfires. Dates for next year are not yet set. Read more on the Riddercamp pages.
Who can take part?
The events are for people with visual and physical impairments. The Children's Ridderweek is for children aged 10 to 16, Riddercamp for ages 15 and over, and Ridderweek has its own youth group for ages 16 to 18. In the Ridderrennet race itself, participants with cognitive and mental impairments are most welcome too. More answers on the Ridderweek FAQ.
What is a companion?
A companion helps a participant through the daytime activities during Ridderweek. Tick the box in part two of the registration form to be paired with a regular companion, or bring your own. Companions are volunteers, and you can sign up as one yourself.
How do I become a member?
Membership of the Ridderrennet Association costs 350 kroner a year and gives you reduced prices on accommodation and participation fees during Ridderweek. Join on the membership page.
Where does it all happen?
The events take place at Beitostølen in the Norwegian mountains. The association's office is at Idrettens Hus, Sognsveien 73, Oslo.
How do I contact Ridderrennet?
Email mail@ridderrennet.no or call (+47) 902 81 016. You will find the people who run things day to day on the contacts page.