Ole Petter Mørck Larsen has participated several times in Styrkeprøven , and as many as ten times in the Jotunheimen Rundt. But one of the rides really stands out.

Ole Petter Mørck Larsen originally comes from Oslo, but currently lives in Elverum. He is married, has two sons aged 19 and 5, in addition to a bonus son aged 18.

– When I’m not working or with my family, I like to cycle long trips along the country road, and experience Norway from the bicycle seat, he says.

Because cycling has always meant a lot to the 49-year-old. In his spare time, he runs a bicycle workshop where he helps others maintain both new and old bicycles.

Like father Like Son

Ole Petter was not the first in the family to take an interest in bicycles. His father has been track manager for the Trondheim-Oslo Styrkeprøven for a number of years.

– Initially, he didn’t want me to cycle, because you can get injured so easily, says Ole Petter.

And that is perhaps not so strange. Because he himself had experienced being hit from behind by a car. The fear was therefore great that the same would happen to the son.

– But I didn’t listen to him that much, like most teenagers, and it was probably basically him who inspired me to start cycling in the first place, he says, and adds:

– I saw how much he enjoyed cycling, and I would like to experience the same.

The cancer diagnosis

Although the joy of cycling has been great, Ole Petter has not always had the opportunity to do what he likes most. Because in 2010, life was turned upside down.

– I was first told that I had testicular cancer and that I had to have an operation, and then continue with chemotherapy, he says.

He was then discharged, but continued to go for regular check-ups.

– At the first check-up, there was spread to the lymph nodes, and I again had to go through a tough chemotherapy regimen for six months to recover, he says, and continues:

– Throughout the period I was very keen to keep moving as little as I could, and every step was a victory. I walked every single day, and I’m convinced that it helped me move forward and get to where I am today. Fresh and without significant after-effects.

– How was that whole experience?

– It was certainly not a good experience, but I think I have a better outlook on life now than I had before. I don’t take anything for granted anymore. You have to live while you can and try to make the best of each and every day.

And he really has. After a tough year with a cancer diagnosis, chemotherapy and spread, he chose to sign up for Jotunheimen Rundt.

– Jotunheimen Rundt in 2011 was very emotional for me. I was so incredibly happy to be healthy again and to be able to ride my favorite ride once again. There was absolutely terrible weather at the race that year, so it was an achievement in itself just to finish. There were many who broke that year, and I am incredibly proud that I was able to complete it, says a humble Ole Petter.

Jotunheimen Rundt is now an annual tradition for cycling enthusiasts.

– I think that ride is so fantastic, with the sunrise over Valdresflya and so much beautiful nature to look at, he says, and adds:

– It is also a very social race with little fuss about time and performance. The waffles at Sognefjellet must not be forgotten either. It’s absolutely magical. In addition, the organizers are incredibly helpful and motivating along the way.