A new Norwegian Pro Team joins the Ski Classics Pro Tour this winter, carrying a powerful message: active against cancer. Team Aktiv mot Kreft steps into its first season with eight athletes, all from Norway, combining youthful energy and more experienced athletes in a project that connects elite sports with a greater purpose.
Team Aktiv mot Kreft (Team Active Against Cancer) was founded on a November night at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), when the idea of a new Ski Classics Pro Team took shape with Halfdan Baumann and Erling Owren. One soon-to-be and one newly graduated engineer wanted to create something new – a team that unites the joy of skiing with social engagement and inspiration.
Through close collaboration with the foundation Aktiv mot kreft (Active against Cancer), the Pro Team aims to motivate and inspire cancer patients – and others – to discover how skiing and physical activity can be valuable parts of daily life, treatment, and recovery.
The foundation Aktiv mot kreft was established by Grete Waitz and Helle Aanesen in 2007, with the mission of making physical activity a natural part of cancer treatment, through initiatives such as “Pusterom” (Breathing Room) training facilities at hospitals and the education of specialized AKTIV instructors.
With this shared belief in the power of movement to bring joy, meaning, and hope, the collaboration between the team and the foundation goes far beyond racing.
“Together with our new Pro Team Director, Vemund Sande, our six other athletes, Halfdan and Erling, and our partners, we are ready for a great season,” says the Pro Team.
For the upcoming Ski Classics Season XVII, Team Aktiv mot Kreft presents a balanced lineup of eight Pro Team athletes, three women and five men: Astrid Arnesen (2002), Martine Grøttum Engen (2001), Hermine Widding (2002), Halfdan Thomas Baumann (2002), Erling Nyborg Owren (1996), Simen Bratberg Ramstad (1996), Halvor Bade (2004), and Erik Ola Jorde (2003).
With a mix of experience from NTNUI Ski Team, Team Synnfjell, and Team Kaffebryggeriet DRIV, the Pro Team is poised to make its mark in the circuit, including the Cubs and Youth categories, while proudly representing their cause across the Pro Tour.
