Once a year for three days in a row, the Jizerka padesátka takes place in North Bohemia. It is the largest national cross-country skiing event in the Czech Republic affiliated to the Worldloppet Ski Federation. The race constitutes literally thousands of semi-professional, cross-country skiing contestants of all ages. 50 (padesátka in Czech language), refers to the maximum distance people race culminating on Sunday; with the 25 kilometre and 30 kilometre race on Friday and Saturday, respectively. The longest route stretches almost the entire length of the mountain range beginning in the small town of Bedřichov. It makes two giant loops, passing through a dozen other sleepy, villages. Coming here to spectate is an experience, and there is an obvious international presence among the crowd of skiers. I heard Norwegian, Spanish and English being spoken within the first 10 minutes of my arrival. Contestants easily outnumber spectators, giving you plenty of opportunities to see the race without too many heads and banners obstructing your vision. #crosscountryskiing #cafe #race #photography #event