Hagemanns Hill Mile

Hagemanns Hill Mile is a January last-person-standing race in Svelvik, in the Drammen area of Buskerud, Norway. Runners start from Svelvik Sports Association's clubhouse and football field at Solbakken, then attempt to complete an English mile, 1,609 meters, in under 20 minutes. A new start is given every twenty minutes from the morning onward; finishing the lap is only half the task, as you must also be back on time for the next one. Each road lap climbs about 80 meters, making the format tougher than a flat backyard-style race. Missing a start ends your race, and the winner is the last runner remaining who can still finish a lap within the time limit. Everyone completing at least one lap receives a medal. Between laps, runners may use indoor and outdoor waiting areas at Solbakken, with four changing rooms providing seating, water, blackcurrant juice from the organizer, and a space to heat food or drinks. January conditions around Drammen are typically cold and snowy, and reflective vests are mandatory after dark.