Photo: Moa Gustafsson (Swedish Championships in Orsa 2022)
Considering it’s only a few days left until the 25manna weekend, most runners are probably busy analysing old maps and discussing possible course options. All to prepare for the terrain that they will be facing during this weekends competitions. We’ve spoken to elite runner Simon Imark from Tullinge SK who is born and raised in Tullinge and well familiar with the forests around Lida Friluftsgård. Keep on reading to get his thoughts and tips about the 25manna terrain.
You are quite familiar with this type of terrain, do you have any tips to someone who isn’t?
It’s generally very nice and the runability is high so it’s easy to keep a high pace in the Lida forest. When you get to the hilly areas it is especially important to be sure you’re going in the right direction as well as changing the tempo when you’re getting close to the controls, since the tempo will be quite high during most parts of the course. I ran the relay courses earlier this week and terrain changes a lot along the courses, which makes it very important to be flexible with the technique and strategy to succeed.
What do you think will be most challenging during the 25manna relay?
Like always with 25manna, when there’s a lot of legs and forking, it’s important to keep your eye on the map so you’re not fooled and run the wrong control. And on top of that you have to look out for tracks that will develop in the terrain during the day because of the high amount of runners in the forest at the same time.
What is your best memory from 25manna over the years?
My favorite memory is from 25manna 2019 when we ended up getting 9th place. It was a great feeling sharing that success with the entire club and all runners who had put in their best effort in the competition.
