Culture

T h e O l y m p i c F l a m e a n d T o r c h R e l a y
Based on the idea that the
Lillehammer Games would be a
national boost and that Olympicrelated
activities should reach as
many people as possible, the idea of
a national Torch Relay was born. In
addition to bringing the Flame
around the country, events along the way could create
additional enthusiasm for the Games. The plan was that local
communities would create cultural programmes and other
events. In this way, the Torch Relay would become a 75-day
“picture book” of Norwegian culture (from 27 November 1993
to 12 February 1994).
In April 1991, LOOC entered into an agreement with
Norway Post assigning them responsibility for the practical
planning and organising of the Torch Relay. LOOC decided
the route, the selection of runners, the cultural programme,
the ceremonies, the visual profile and the stage equipment.
LOOC was also responsible for press operations. Norway Post
and LOOC cooperated closely in the areas of information,
marketing, exhibitions, sponsors and administration. For the
overall organisation of these activities, LOOC set up an
internal committee in which representatives of all aspects of
the Torch Relay were represented.
The final route which snaked its way throughout the country,
presented a picture of a country with magnificent landscapes,
distinctive rural and urban areas and unique historical sites.
The entry and exit points to each county were pre-decided by
LOOC. Norway Post planned the detailed route. The entire
distance was measured metre by metre. Every detail along the
route was mapped. A number of practical considerations had to
be considered because of the enormous logistics task involved
in such an operation. The total route was 12 000 km, 8 000 km
of which was on land. Runners carried the torch about 6 500
km of this distance. The rest of the distance, 4 000 km, involved
plane transport to Svalbard, fjord and sea crossings. In areas in
which it was not possible to run, traditional means of delivering
post down through the ages was used.
A flexible events support group followed each step of the
relay and provided all necessary assistance. The support