Stina Bakke Trodahl (37) from Ottestad in Stange municipality was born with Bardet-Biedl syndrome.
- This means that I have a number of challenges with motor skills and weight in addition to the eye disease
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), which means that I can only see light and dark. That's why I'm addicted
by companion when I'm out. I go on trips with my family a lot, but it's more than walking
running, and it's because of my diagnosis, says Stina, who is taking part in this year's para class.
In 2010, Oslo Marathon created separate classes for people with different disabilities
functional variations, with separate classes for women and men. This was done
following the initiative of the blind and partially sighted in Team RP. All with a discount
functional ability can participate in our paraclasses. It costs NOK 100 to participate,
and more information can be found here!
Team RP is a good motivator
Since 2011, Stina has participated in races together with team RP, a sporty team created by the blind
and severely visually impaired who all have the eye disease retinitis pigmentosa. And because Stina has
team RP and especially when RP leader and prime mover in the RP association, Håkon Gisholt, was present
important motivator.
- It started with mountain trips under the auspices of the RP association and I have been to both Galdhøpiggen
and the Gaustadtoppen with them Håkon got me into team RP at the Holmenkoll Relay for
the first time in 2011. Since then I have been there every year except in 2020. The first years had
we celebrity companions, and I ran with Isabella Martinsen. Later we had companions
from the Choice hotels. I have also taken part in the Oslo half marathon and most of the 10 km
the years after 2012.
What does running give you?
- I keep fit and keep my weight down, which is very important when you have BB syndrome.
It is also good to get fresh air, and physical activity helps me to keep my motor skills in order.
Many people with my diagnosis struggle a lot with weight problems, joint problems, etc. To attend
running gives me a lot, also socially. Team RP makes a good program for the whole weekend during the Oslo marathon.
Then I meet acquaintances. In the Oslo marathon I have had many funny celebrity companions,
e.g. Fabian Stang, Kjersti Grini, Shabana Rehman and Trine Rein. I have attended New York
marathon twice, it was a big win for me! The one time my sister was with me
companion, it was a nice experience for both of us.
- The folk life during the Oslo Marathon is inspiring
Physical activity means a lot to Stina, and she is keen to keep fit.
-I go on a lot of walks, take part in riding with a physiotherapist, and have an hour's training with me
PT once a week. And on hard days, I always get a kick in the butt from my mother
take me on a trip! Being in shape for the next race is also motivating, says
Stina who has taken part in both the Oslo Marathon, the Holmenkoll Relay and the Birkebeinerløper
twice, New York Marathon twice as well
relay for life under the auspices of the Cancer Society twice.
What would you say to others who may not have signed up for the Oslo Marathon yet,
but who doubts a little?
-This is a lot of fun, it's suitable for everyone no matter what shape you're in. I'm nobody
sprinter, it's mostly about fast walking for me.
And what are you most looking forward to during the Oslo Marathon?
- The folk life that cheers us on is inspiring! It's nice to meet the others
Team RP. We are together all weekend. We also attend lectures that are useful to us.
And how will you celebrate?
Together with the RP gang at the hotel after the race is over!
