It's Roar Viken who says it – and we totally agree!
Every year, a dedicated group of volunteers gathers, working behind the scenes to ensure that the events run smoothly. We talked to Roar Viken, the shooting range manager during the Biathlon World Cup, to gain insight into what makes volunteering in Holmenkollen so special and rewarding.
Roar started as a volunteer as early as 2011, where he started at the shooting range, first to «write» and sweep mats, before he became deputy head from 2013, until he is now shooting range manager and part of the competition committee for the World Cup Biathlon in Kollen
For info: Each target has a «writer» who manually registers how many hits/misses each individual athlete gets, each time they come in for shooting.
What actually surprised you the most during your time as a volunteer in Holmenkollen?
«What was unexpected for me was that I eventually took an IBU referee course (international referee course). I wasn't quite there when I started, but eventually I wanted and got more responsibility. And to have the role I have today as leader of the shooting range team with all equipment and safety, it is a requirement from IBU and I had to take it.»
What makes you come back as a volunteer in Kollen year after year?
«Seeing all the happy and positive people who are helping out is fantastic, and the electric atmosphere in the stands among the audience inspires and makes me proud.»
Roar highlights the unique community that develops over time among the volunteers. Meeting the same people year after year creates strong bonds and a unique friendship and camaraderie that makes the work meaningful. It is also rewarding to see so much joy and good atmosphere in the stadium.
Which task do you think has been the most demanding and challenging as a volunteer?
«In 2016, the Biathlon World Championships were held here. And then we were here for 14 days and it was of course a big and important event. There were many long days, from six in the morning to eight or nine in the evening, there was a lot to be done all the time. So it gets quite exhausting after a while, with two and a half weeks in a hotel with preparations, implementation and rigging up/down. But it was of course very fun, and a good group of volunteers who went in the same direction – so it went well!» says Roar, and looks back on that time with learning and a good sense of accomplishment.
What quality would you say is most important to you as leader of the shooting range and firing line in the World Cup?
In addition to the experienced and well-known volunteers in the group, many are new without experience, they need advice and training. Roar emphasizes that keeping calm under pressure is a crucial quality as a leader during such major sporting events.
«I am quite calm. I don't stress out, and run around and shout at people. It is good to speak nicely and with respect to each other, and if someone gets stressed, it is important to keep calm and work together to solve any challenges.»
As for the other section leaders, the role also requires quick assessment and decision-making skills, and concentration to handle varied tasks.
Just sign up as a volunteer!
«It's not dangerous to be a volunteer here in Kollen. Because they are actually simple tasks, and you get guidance all the time. – So it's not rocket science to sit on the shooting range; It can for example be to follow a target during a race and write a miss, or two misses, or count the number of shots. So it's not dangerous. And it's not the end of the world if you make a mistake. Next time it will only get better.»
Roar assures everyone who is considering joining the volunteer team:
The tasks aren't difficult!
Guidance is available!
Everyone can contribute in one way or another!
Are you ready to try volunteering and be part of this unique community?
Sign up as a volunteer in Holmenkollen!
