From Nigel Tapper…

A cornerstone of The Swedish Classic series (ski, cycle, swim and run) since 1971, this event doesn’t disappoint. A truly well-organised and fun weekend of running on the island of Lidingo just a little north of Stockholm. 

Lovely courses of varying distances, through pine-needled forest trails and the coastline of the Baltic Sea. Easy running by Yorkshire Dales standards with undulations (some steep) rather than the long ups and downs of a local fell or trail. Apparently, the event is the world’s largest trail race series by participation, with around 60,000 runners over the two days. As well as junior and veteran events, there are the main challenges of the 10, 15 and 30k races. Although the whole event is a fun weekend with a family-friendly feel from the start, the competition is serious with a quality field of seeded competitors. 

Given the numbers involved and the somewhat narrow trails in parts, with staggered start times, the volume of runners is just about acceptable on the course. We were corralled into groups of maybe 400 or 500 at a time with plenty of space for all. A dynamic warm-up with lots of jumping about on the spot soon settles any event nerves and before you know it you are away across green fields and then into pine forests and undulating trails. A little testy at times, though the climbs are short and the trails are good going underfoot. Excellent organisation with regular drink and food en route including pickled gherkin and a Swedish favourite, cinnamon buns! 

We did the 30k event and although a trail, there was good public support at various points and at water stations. The route is fabulous, forest and coastal paths and if, like some of us, you feel energised, go for a plunge in the Baltic post-race. Envigorating! One thing we did observe, is that the locals aren’t very confident on steep descents, we whizzed by dozens every time! Guess they’re not used to it.

The finish area is well supported and there’s a good buzz despite the complimentary beer at the end being non-alcoholic! An excellent choice of post-race food and drink is available and the bag drop system for what is a linear route worked perfectly. Apart from a few IT glitches at registration (we chose to do this on the day) the organisation was as good as anything I’ve seen before and all very friendly. 

Getting to Lidingo is a cinch from the city of Stockholm which has an excellent and cheap rail network. Free coaches are laid on from the train station to the Expo and registration. All in all a fabulous event with the chance of great weekend in a super city. I’d definitely recommend the Wasa museum. I’m sure we’ll be back.

Results:

Helen Horton 3:34

Nigel Tapper 3:34

We both finished in the top third of our V60 cats.