Maja in Norway: The birkebeiner competition

The Birkebeiner competitions has its roots in the story about how the future king, Håkon Håkonsson, was moved to safety by a dangerous trip over the mountains when he was only 2 years old. This background is made clear by the competition rule that everyone has to wear a backpack weighing 3.5 kg for both the skiing and the cycling competition. For the last competition, the run, you do not have to wear it. The skiing competition was held last winter, and the cycling and running this autumn. You can choose whether you want to take part in one, two or all three competitions. If you take part in all three there is also a combined competition of the three: "the triple". In each competition you have to be below a maximum finish time (based on the best ones in each group) to get an award. If you manage this in all competitions, you get the title "Birkebeiner of the year".

The cycling competition was great fun! And I both understand why the it's sold out within minutes and why people sell their tickets when it's bad weather. Luckily the weather was nice this year and I could only enjoy the beautiful route and the lovely scenery along it. The same also applies for the run which was a 21 km route mostly in the terrain. Much better than running on concrete or asphalt! And much more fun=)

I am very impressed by how well it all has been organized. Especially considering the logistics with having the start and finish at two different locations and also the amount of people participating in the competitions. Well done!

My goal was to become a Birkebeiner of the year, and after managing the requirements in the first two competitions I had only the run left. I got a good night sleep at Suttestad gård, a charming old building away from the noise. I would recommend a stay at this place for anyone who likes to feel at home and are tired of big hotels. I charged the batteries well, managed to do a good run and reached my goal! It was a lovely feeling=)
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