Inga-lami Frequently Asked Questions

	What does INGA-LÅMI® mean? The Norwegian phrase, "Inga-låmi" means "The Pathway of Inga." The word "låmi" is a derivative of the word "slalom."
	What is the INGA-LÅMI® and where did it originate? The Norwegian Inga-låmi (pathway of Inga) is an annual Women's Cross-Country Ski Race which originated in Lillehammer, Norway in 1993. It is a grand festival of Norwegian fun for thousands of women. The event has grown from 1,600 participants to over 6,000! In 1994, Solveig Sikkeland, a professional economist, elite athlete and 1994 Winter Olympic organizer, felt it was time to celebrate the mother of the famous Norwegian medieval king, King Håkon Håkonsson. Since 1932, the legendary escape of this young King has been commemorated in Lillehammer by a long distance cross-country ski race called the Birkebeiner-rennet. In 1206, this child and his champions traversed the final leg of the journey that began hundreds of miles away in southeastern Norway. This journey began with Inga™. It was the beginning of a journey destined to change history. Solveig, like Inga, was born in the little southeastern village of Varteig. The deeply ingrained historical knowledge of Inga's foresight and wisdom persistently remained with Solveig. Patriarchal history had somehow forgotten Inga. Ms. Sikkeland successfully persuaded the Lillehammer SkiKlub to add a Women's Cross- Country Ski Event to their calendar and, in 1993, the Inga-låmi became a reality. Lillehammer now proudly honors the pathway of this great woman, Inga from Varteig™- the forgotton gueen.
	Who was Inga? Inga from Varteig was an extraordinary young Norwegian woman who lived from 1203 to 1217. She was the mother of the famous King Håkon Håkonsson, the child being rescued by the brave Birbeinere warriors in the chalk drawing by Knud Larsen Bergslien.
	What does the Inga-låmi International logo symbolize? The figure is that of 13th century Inga displaying her loosened bandages after successfully passing the medieval trial by irons - or test of truth. Inga's image on the shield was the City of Varteig's official image. This image and was kindly offered to Inga-låmi® International for incorporation into their logo. The crown was designed and added to the Varteig symbol, by www.carlsonproductions.net. It is meant to honor Inga's royal status by giving her the crown which fate denied her. The poignant story, in its entirety, is told in the book, Inga frå Varteig™.
	What is the INGA-LÅMI® USA? It is the annual Women's Cross-Country Ski Event held in Minnesota, Montana, Wisconsin, Sun Valley and New England It is an event planned for both serious skiers and those who ski for fun. The event focuses on the traditions of Norway and encourages those who participate in the 5-K tour to wear the long wool ski skirts of long ago.
	When and where does INGA-LÅMI® USA take place? The Women's Cross-Country Ski Race currently takes place every year in Minnesota, Montana, Sun Valley, Wisconsin and New England.