18.5.2020

Fifty Years after the Peru 1970 Expedition. CEZ Jizerská 50 Opens Registration to Commemorate the Climbers

To commemorate the Peru expedition we launch registrations for the 54th edition of the Jizerska 50 race precisely fifty years after a group of climbers set out for Lima in Peru to travel under the summit of Huascarán. These climbers stood at the birth of this traditional winter race and after their tragic expedition they became its symbol. When the third Jizerská 50 was held at the start of 1971, the number of people taking part in it grew severalfold. Why was that? It was the first year when it was organized as the Peru Expedition Memorial. Just like today, the climbers were commemorated at every opportunity.

History remains history, but the organizers still remember the 15 members of the expedition. Since it is precisely 50 years ago these days that the climbers were getting ready for their final ascent, the summit of Huascarán, the organizers want to link the registrations to their story.

“Half a century later we still think of the destiny of those young men, we remember them, commemorate them. Their story is an inseparable part of Jizerská 50,” explains Martin Koucký, chairman of Jizerská 50 Ski Club. 

The biggest Czech cross-country skiing race of a long tradition has opened registrations. The three-day event in the Jizerské Mountains saw a record number of participants this year. Despite concerns that there would not be enough snow, the 8,141 cross-country skiers started in the race under azure skies and on fresh white snow. Two-times Olympic gold medalist Petter Northug was one of the participants who enjoyed the unique atmosphere and he wants to come back and revisit the traditional Czech race in the coming years.

CEZ Jizerská 50 will take place from 12th to 14th February 2021 in Bedřichov. The organizers hope for a great number of participants for the 54th edition, which is being prepared despite the intermission caused by the coronavirus outbreak. At these times when restrictions are being lifted it is necessary to come with some good news, which the opening of registrations for the legendary cross-country skiing race undoubtedly is.

Jizerská is not 50K only! Skiers can set out on a half-distance race or take part in the family “ten K” course. The classic technique is used in these races. It is also possible to take part in the freestyle 30K or to sign up a bunch of friends to the relay race for companies. Of course, the already traditional children’s races and a colourful accompanying programme will also be part of the event.

If you want to be part of this cross-country skiing phenomenon, register now for a cheaper race fee. For more information go to sportID.

• ČEZ Jizerská 50: 1,600 CZK
• Volkswagen Bedřichovská 30: 1,100 CZK
• Hervis Jizerská 25: 1,300 CZK
• ČT Jizerská 10 individuals / family: 750 CZK / 1,500 CZK
• Benzina Sprint: 600 CZK
• Mini Jizerská Pojišťovny VZP: 250 CZK

If you have some questions, make sure you visited our new page "FAQ".