EPISODE 1: The 2023 Arna Westfjords Way Challenge | Icelandair Stage One

Weather was the only thing on anyone’s mind in the days leading up to the start of the 2023 Arna Westfjords Way Challenge. As riders from around the world made the journey to Ísafjörður, the forecast was foreboding with strong winds and constant rain on the horizon. True to Icelandic nature, you can never predict the weather until you’re in it - and this year, we got the worst of it.
The startline was also bigger this year - the excitement of the event has been growing, but there were also some familiar faces ready to take on the Challenge for a second time. Many made the trip back for the love of the community around the race, and the unique format of cultural connections encouraging riders to slow down and soak in this incredible place. Others came to win. Last year’s first place winner Arnþór Gústavsson came back to defend his title, and day one proved that this year the competition, and the weather, would put up a fight.
Watch the video to get the full story of this epic first stage [158 mi / 254km, Ísafjörður to Hotel Laugarhóll] and stay tuned for Stage 2.
A big shout-out to Icelandair for supporting the race, and getting our riders to the start line in our remote corner of Iceland!
Film and edit by Haraldsson Production
Music by Þormóður Eiríksson

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Registration for the 2024 Arna Westfjords Way Challenge is now open! cyclingwestfjords.com/wfwc/