Torsdagsløpet

Torsdagsløpet is Sarpsborg’s largest running series. It is a free Thursday race held from Easter to Christmas, with no pre-registration required. It has run annually since 1978, and in recent seasons, the schedule has typically included 30 to 40 races. Most weeks draw around 40 to 50 runners, creating a local and regular feel rather than a large, single-day event. The route crosses easy forest terrain in the Kalnes/Vister area, situated between Grålum and Sykehuset Østfold at Kalnes. The current course has been in use since 1985. Both strong and recreational runners participate, and the series maintains a season-long score through Torsdagscupen. The top 30 finishers in each race earn points, with 100, 80, 60, 50, and 45 awarded for the first five places. Runner interest increased with the popularity of training apps. The final race of the season features a small tradition: participants wear Santa hats.