Arctic Challenge brings Olympic-style winter games to Penn State Altoona

ALTOONA, Pa. - In anticipation of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, Penn State Altoona will bring the spirit of international competition to campus with the first annual Altoona Arctic Challenge, a weeklong, winter-themed event running Feb. 3-6.

The Altoona Arctic Challenge invites students to form two-person teams and represent a country of their choice as they compete in a series of fun, Olympic-inspired activities. Teams earn points for their country throughout the week, with medals awarded for individual events as well as overall gold, silver, and bronze teams.

The Challenge officially begins on Tuesday, Feb. 3, with the following events:

• Curling from 3 to 9 p.m.
• Biathlon challenge (no skis required) from 5 to 9 p.m.
• Opening Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. in the Auxiliary Gym of the Adler Athletic Complex. Participants will be welcomed and the rules and point system explained.

On Wednesday, Feb. 4, teams can compete from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. in a series of Minute to Win It-style games inspired by Winter Olympic sports. The evening continues from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Adler Athletic Complex with a "snowball" dodgeball tournament.

Final competitions take place on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 7 to 9 p.m. in Adler and will include the following:

• Bobsledding Relay
• Floor Hockey Obstacle Course
• Nordic Combined
• 60-Second Choreographed "Floor Figure Skating" Program

A Steps Challenge will run Monday through Thursday, allowing teams to earn additional points through daily activity. A limited number of free pedometers will be available for pickup in room 103 of the Slep Student Center while supplies last.

The Arctic Challenge will conclude with a Closing and Medal Ceremony on Friday, Feb. 6, where individual event winners and overall team champions will be recognized on the podium and receive medals and prizes.

Beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Slep Student Center, participants and spectators can enjoy free food followed by a live viewing of the Olympic Opening Ceremonies broadcast from Italy.

All events are optional, but each offers another opportunity for teams to earn points for their country. One member of each two-person team must register using the online form by Monday, Feb. 2, at noon.