Valhalla Open – Combat in the Scandinavian Alps

Date: 20–21 March 2026
Location: Ulsåk School, Hemsedal
Registration: Register via the link on Smoothcomp

After a successful debut, Valhalla Open returns in 2026. The event features several competition formats and the well-tested Valhalla Ruleset – inspired by fighting spirit, but grounded in safety, respect and fair play. The goal is simple: bring the communities together, create action, and deliver a weekend worth remembering.

Competition Formats

Grappling Gi – IBJJF rules with Valhalla adaptations

Grappling No-Gi – IBJJF rules with Valhalla adaptations

Challenge Mat – choose a ruleset and challenge willing opponents

One competitor ticket gives access to multiple matches. Finished early? Sign up for the challenge mat and get more rounds.

Valhalla Ruleset – Explained

• Takedowns score double points

• Guard pulling or sitting to guard results in minus points

• Dangerous techniques are not allowed – this is weekend sport

• Good sportsmanship and respect for the referee’s decisions are essential

• Match duration: 5 minutes

• Draws are decided by 2 minutes of golden score overtime, starting from standing

• All other aspects follow general IBJJF principles

Equipment

Gi: Standard Jiu Jitsu or Judo gi in white, blue or black

No-Gi: Rashguard and shorts (shorts may be worn over spats)

Challenge Mat – Open Invitation

Challenge and practice matches can be arranged regardless of gender, weight or age, as long as both athletes agree. If more athletes want to compete, brackets will be created. Perfect for friendly rivalries and new match-ups.

Registration

Open to both children and adults. Register with age, weight and belt level to ensure appropriate brackets. You are guaranteed at least two matches, plus any additional matches available on the challenge mat.

Black and brown belts receive free entry – please get in touch by email.

Prizes

Open class winners receive Valhalla Open axes and eternal bragging rights.
In 2026, we are also introducing a majestic Viking Queen Cloak for the Women’s Absolute champion.

Who will be crowned Queen of the North – and King of the North?

2025 Winners

• Men’s Open: Vegard Randeberg

• Women’s Open: Solveig Lunde

Schedule

Friday
18:00 – No-Gi competition + No-Gi challenge mat

Saturday
10:00 – Kids Gi
11:00 – Adults Gi + Gi challenge mat
Finals – No-Gi Open

Afterparty

Some of us will join Odin’s army in Valhalla – partying like it’s the year 995.
Venue: Stavkroa – Scandinavia’s wildest après-ski, in the heart of Norway’s premier ski destination
Age limit: 20+

More Than Just the Mat

Hemsedal offers more than competition. Combine the weekend with skiing or snowboarding, dog sledding, or winter horse-drawn sleigh rides. Mountains, pulse and pauses that recharge.

Join the Crew

Want to be part of the team? We need helpers to make the event happen. Crew members receive free entry and either accommodation or payment.

Partners and Sponsors

Interested in supporting the event? Get in touch to explore partnership opportunities.

Follow Valhalla Open on Instagram:@valhallaopen5
For more information, including contact details: see Smoothcomp

Welcome to a weekend of strength, community and true mountain pulse in Hemsedal.