Lake Runn is located near the Swedish towns of Falun and Borlänge, just 2 hours away from Stockholm. The train journey to Falun offered us the opportunity to get acquainted with the wintry landscape of the Swedish interior. 

With over 50 km of prepared track, Lake Runn offers skaters some of Sweden’s finest trip skating experiences. Participants of the annual “Runnskrinnet” can choose between three distances: 30, 60, or 90 kilometers. Me and my brother (Daan) opted for the 60 km alternative.  

At the start, we experienced a freezing temperature of minus 19 degrees Celsius. It is very important to wear several layers of clothing. Purchasing a light ski helmet proved to be a golden investment: wind and cold are kept out perfectly and the ski goggles, hermetically covering the eyes, remain in place. We tape our noses and applied water-free vaseline to our cheeks and lips with water-free vaseline. A thin buff served as an extra protective layer.

Together with 93 other skaters, we skated our 9-km-long laps. It was quite a challenge to skate 60 km, but luckily there were other recreationists in addition to the more professional skaters. The participants spread out quickly and so we had plenty of space, also to enjoy the beautiful nature around us. 

Despite the low temperatures, the conditions were perfect: sun, blue sky, and no wind. The main challenge was the crackling ice. Unfortunately, one crack caused Daan to fall and hurt his knee. However, he held up his spirit and speed and completed the race. The sound of metal on ice and the wind blowing around your ears gives you a fantastic feeling. We crossed the finish line after 3 hours, 24 minutes, and 49 hours.

It was maybe not an impressive time, but it was all about the experience. By getting out on the ice, amidst a breathtaking winter landscape, skating becomes more than just a sport. We truly enjoyed pursuing this challenge as a team, meeting fellow skaters, and enjoying the elements and nature.