No less than 88 WOC medals have been won by runners representing one of the clubs from Østfold. We will present all of them in the build-up to WOC 2019. Number 22 is Magne Dæhli.

FACTFILE:

Name: Magne Dæhli

Age: 31

Civil status/children: In partnership with Kine Hallan Steiwer

Residency: Halden, Norway

Clubs represented: Løten OL and Halden SK

WOC-medals: Team relay silvers 2012 & 2015, team relay golds 2016. 2017 & 2018

WOC participations: 2012-2018

Other merits: 2 EOC silvers and 4 Norwegian Championship golds

What do you do today?

85% orienteer, 15% accountant in Halden SK

Best WOC memory?

The relay gold in 2017. I was changed over in a solitary lead with Thierry Gueorgiou chasing close behind. The terrain was challenging, so I was terrified throughout the whole lap. I performed my best WOC race so far, and it was enough to win.

Worst WOC Memory?

Long-distance 2018. The final position was OK, but I threw away the chance of a lifetime for an individual gold by terrible performance both in the beginning and at the end of the race.

What is WOC to you?

It’s the biggest event in orienteering.

Funniest WOC banquet memory?

The first in 2012 when I discovered that the senior banquets were just as outrageous as the JWOC banquets.

Can you tell us a bit about how your relationship with the sport has evolved since the beginning?

I’m born into an orienteering family, so the sport has always been with me. I didn’t become especially eager on the sport before the age of 11-12 though. I’ve been hooked ever since

What is your view on Østfold hosting WOC 2019?

I hope it will mark the highlight of my career.

What does it take to become a world champion in Østfold 2019?

The all over qualities that’ll always be needed will apply here as well. If I’m to single out one quality, you’ll need to be physically strong to cope with the Nordic terrain.

What do you recommend WOC visitors to experience in Østfold?

I’m the worst sight-seeing advisor, but I’ll at least recommend the fortresses in Østfold that might be worth a visit.

What do you like best about Østfold?

The accessibility to great orienteering terrains.