The energy was high as riders toed the line for the start of the Arctic Fish Midnight Special (Stage 4). The riders have had a day to rest and recharge before tackling the final and biggest day of climbing, with some of the most incredible gravel roads Iceland has to offer.
This day offers something for everyone, especially with the addition of the single-day gravel race that brought in a group of fresh riders, including our very own mayors of Ísafjarðarbær and Vesturbyggð! The 2-in-1 race format added a layer of excitement, as the Midnight Special leaders came out the gate faster than anyone expected.
The midnight start was beautiful, and set the stage for all the dramatic light to come as riders watched the sunrise over mountain passes, waterfalls and the infamous Svalvogar low-tide road. Through all the exhaustion, riders were able to enjoy a 2am waffle party, a warming fish soup courtesy of Arctic Fish at Hrafnseyri, and all the hospitality of cozy Westfjords cafes, before tackling the final cold and windy mountain pass.
The Arctic Fish Midnight Special riders really ran their own race. While organizers weren’t sure what would happen when introducing a one-day gravel race within a four-stage ulta event, it was clear that there wouldn’t be too much overlap in strategy to utilize riders from each race. Ingvar Ómarsson and Katrín Pálsdóttir soloed most of the race to win in their respective categories, setting high course record bars.
The Arna WFWC competitors finished strong with just over half completing the race in its entirety. We’ve been following their stories of competition, connection, and finding meaning in the shared suffering - and it all culminates here. At the end of it all, this final stage proved that community is everything. We had seen many DNF’s by this point - most of whom chose to continue following the race, and others even got back on the bike to see through the final stage thanks to the help of fellow riders. Everyone dug deep, and proved that each ‘why’ is unique, but at the end of the day we are in it together.
Arnþór Gústavsson reclaimed his title on the top step, proving that for now this race is his. Weronika Szalas edged out a close race with Íris Ósk Hjaltadóttir. Both thanked their respective riding groups for their high energy and comradery to get them to podium.
These races offer an opportunity to ride the Westfjords your way. A huge thanks to all the riders, families, volunteers, sponsors and cultural connections that made this race possible.
Till next year!