Massive Turnout at 49th Edition of Donald Duck Games, Smashing Previous Records
Skiing enthusiasts flocked to Hliðarfjall near Akureyri yesterday to take part in the 49th children's ski festival, breaking all previous records for attendance. Despite the less-than-ideal winter weather conditions, the excitement for the games was undeterred.
This year, a whopping 930 young skiers registered to compete, making it the most popular edition of the games ever. The children's ski festival, known as Andrésar andar leikarnir, is an annual tradition in Akureyri and has been taking place since 1976.
Despite the mild winter with little snowfall and persistent southerly winds across the country, the vibrant spirit of the festival lives on. As one coordinator put it, "The Donald Duck Games are the highlight of the ski season for many children, and they're always excited to come to Akureyri and take part."
Preparations for the games began last autumn, with organizers aiming to make this year's event particularly memorable. The dedicated staff at Hliðarfjall has worked tirelessly to move and compact snow to ensure safe and enjoyable conditions for all competitors. With a festive atmosphere and an enthusiastic turnout, the 49th Andrésar andar leikarnir promises to be one of the most successful yet.
As a hub for skiing in Iceland, Akureyri offers a thriving environment for both amateur and professional skiers. Events like the children's ski festival play a significant role in maintaining this vibrant culture. Whether caked in snow or thawing in the sun, the people of Akureyri never let a little bad weather dampen their love for the slopes.
The children's ski festival, Andrésar andar leikarnir, in the location ðarfjall near Akureyri, particularly attracted a record-breaking 930 child participants this year. This annual tradition, known for its lively spirit, persists despite the country's less-than-ideal winter weather, making it a significant contribution to the thriving ski culture in Akureyri. Organizers of the games have put in significant effort to ensure this year's event is memorable, even as they grapple with challenges like snow scarcity and southern winds.
