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Leanne Roggemann calls it a warm-up for Karl Oscar days. A long and tiring warm-up, but a warm-up nonetheless. It’s a warm-up that last year, close to 400 runners took part in, making it the most successful season numbers wise in Loppet history. As for 2004? Don’t expect the things to slow down, during the race or at the registration table, anytime soon.

“I think that we have only had one year where the registration has gone down,” said Roggemann, one of four members on the Loppet board. “Last year, we had 400 registrations and 380 people ran in it. That was the highest ever.”

But why so popular? The reason is simple, far simpler than the final resting place of the Karl Oskar snuff box. To area organizers, runners, and volunteers, it’s the event that kicks the weekend off, helped out by 800 stomping pairs of feet.

“It’s the Saturday of Karl Oskar and it just gets everyone going,” replied Roggemann, who has been helping out with the race since 1991. “I think people look forward to starting their weekend with the Loppet. Also, it’s community based. The proceeds come back to the community in several ways. I think the community really enjoys it.”

Sixteen years of existence supports that theory. Yes, this Saturday, the gun will sound on the 16th annual Lindstrom Loppet, drawing in runners from all around. Places like Minneapolis, Stillwater, and one year, even Germany. The entire event is put on by over 100 volunteers and four dedicated board members. Along with Roggemann, Lani Freeman, Anne Renaker, and Carla Norelius make it all happen.

“Every year, we have basically the same runners back and the same volunteers. It’s funny because you really don’t even need to contact them. Most of the volunteers plan on it. Some even have their spot on the course picked out year after year,” smiled Roggemann. “Also, we really depend on Ken Orwoll to help us out. We always say that if it wasn’t for Ken, it wouldn’t get done.”

Final registration forms will be picked up on Friday. On site registration will be available leading up to the start of the race. In all, the top three finishers in each of the 10 age classes will receive a medal.

Loppet Facts and Figures

When: July 10th @ 8 a.m. Registration set for 7 a.m.

Where: Start and finish at the Chisago Lakes Evangelical Free Church.

Price:

Advanced registration-

14 or older- $12

13 or younger- $8

Race day registration-

14 or older- $15

13 or younger- $10

Race hotline: 651-257-8457

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