Tornedalsloppet is among the older long-distance ski-races in Sweden and the only one where the start is situated north of the Arctic Circle and the finish line south of it. The actual crossing of the Arctic Circle happens approximately 15 km after the start. (Participants may purchase an Arctic Circle diploma after completing the race.)
As the race takes place late in March the conditions are usually ideal for skiing. Clear blue sunny skies and loads of glittering snow can make the race an experience not easily forgotten.

The race has been held every year since 1968 and is traditionally 45 km and 23 km. During later years a shorter 11 km race was introduced for mainly for youths and people wishing to ski a shorter distance. All distances are done in classic technique. The main race is the 45 km and there are age groups for both genders from 21 to 65 and older. The race for 23 km has age groups for 17-20. There is also a general group in all three distances for skiers wishing to participate for recreational purposes only. It is also possible to enter as a 5-man relay team for the 45km race.
Although the race has three different distances all have the same finish area at the Övertorneå track and field arena. The starts, however, differ. To get to the start for the 45 km race one has to take the road along the Torne River and go north to Svanstein (approx 40 km) where the start is at the ski resort Svanstein Ski. On the way one gets to pass the start for 11 km in Kuivakangas, the Arctic Circle in Juoksengi and the start for 23 km in Vanhaniemi. Transportation for skiers to the starting areas will be organised but you are advised to request for transportation when registering.
The three fastest finishers on 45 km, both male and female, will receive moderate sums of money as prize. The range is 3000 – 1500 – 750 SEK for 2008 and the amounts are the same regardless of gender. There is also a sprint-prize of 1000 SEK at the Arctic Circle for both genders. Fastest finishers in the age groups will also receive prizes and in the general group the skiers’ start numbers are their lottery tickets for prizes. 

More info at www.tornedalsloppet.se (there you can also find information in German and Finnish)