Ridderuka means The Week of the Knight. Is the world’s biggest universally accessible annual winter sports event for youth and adults in Beitostølen, Norway. The event is known for removing barriers for athletes and many people with visual or mobility challenges excel in winter sports there. RCN students participate every year as volunteers and we have some athletes in the competitions too. Our students this year took part in cross-country skiing. Here are some quotes about the Ridderuka from our students:

“After almost three years, I spent time in Norway and learned many new sports activities. My favorite one was skiing. I really like skiing more than any other sport I did at UWCRCN. I decided to participate in this race because I want to beat myself and also I really enjoyed skiing so much. When I decided to join this race I was sure that I might not win the race but as long as I try my best I am satisfied with it because this was my first time participating in a sports competition or race. The Ridderuka was a wonderful experience and an unforgettable time for me. I never expected that I could ski for 10km in 1 hour and 18 minutes. Moreover, I don’t know when I can ski again after I leave Norway.” Tum from Cambodia, Athlete

“Ridderuka was one of the best experiences I have had on this campus, and it truly showed me how important compassion and patience for everyone is. During the event, Beitostølen is an amazing place where people of all abilities feel accepted. As a volunteer, helping and guiding those with visual and movement impairments was our main responsibility, but we also made friends with both the contestants in Ridderuka and the kitchen staff that we were around every day. As a group, we became much closer and despite the early mornings and icy roads, I would highly recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to go.”  Marie from Denmark, support team

“For me, it was quite amazing. It gave me great excitement just seeing people with different abilities doing what they love in their own time, at their own pace, and with their own abilities. It was like a safe space in the arena of winter sports. It really was an amazing experience.” Justina from Liberia, Athlete

“Spending these days in Ridderuka was amazing! It was for sure one of the best experiences yet and I’m so grateful for it! It was amazing to be able to actually help people and to be able to spend time with them! I will never forget us tobogganing with two blind guys from England until 1 a.m. and laughing the whole time while they were  calling us “kids”!” Bia from Portugal, support team