The Nordenskiöld race in 1884 did not only contribute by creating history in the world of cross-country skiing, it also contributied to the creation of Jokkmokk skiers association in 1893 which later became Jokkmokk SK.
Lennart Nilsson has been a member in JSK board for many years as was helping out during Nordenskiöldsloppet last year. He himself have done 18 Vasaloppet races and his father’s grandfather Nils Paulus Jacobsson called ”Fast Paul” took part in the Nordenskiöld race in 1884.
The strongest memory Lennart brings from the race last years race, was when everyone was gathered at the starting line in Purkijaur early morning.
– Standing and watching all excited skiers and seeing the strong field of skiers ski away from Purkijaur over the ice is something I will never forget, says Lennart.
This year, five boys and three girls from JSK registered for the race. Maybe a few more will decide at the last minute, says Lennart currently are out working to collateral the final touches to the track will be completely clear when the 300 participants stand on the start line on Saturday morning.
JSK currently has 275 members and around 25 children and young people are training regularly since autumn 2016.
– The Interest of skiing in the whole community has grown since the race returned in 2016, says Lennart.
Close to 35 local associations with 500 volunteers have been working hard to prepare the race. JSK has a central role in the organization. The vast majority of our members will help in any way.
– Im very happy to see that so many skiers are travelling to Jokkmokk to end their season with this ultimate challenge, says Lennart who is looking forward to hear the starting gun again in the 15th of April.
