The Vasaloppet has had its start in Berga village since 1961 and the first long ascent is also Vasaloppet's highest point at 528 meters above sea level.

The race is part of the long-running Visma Ski Classics race and two years ago a so-called Climb competition was implemented, so that in the women's and men's classes who come up first in a hill they win a prize.

"Contributes to more excitement"

On March 1, 2020, such a variant will also be included in the Vasaloppet. Already after just over 13 minutes of skiing, the elite will reach the first ascent and then the five fastest ladies and ten fastest men will receive points.

- The first slope in the Vasaloppet is not the longest or steepest in the Visma Ski Classics, but it is a well-known landmark for long-distance riders, elite as a sports enthusiast. Implementing a Climb position at the top of the hill contributes to even more excitement during the first three kilometers of the Vasaloppet and more Pro Team riders will bring full speed to the top, says David Nilsson, CEO of Visma Ski Classics in a press release.