A Run In Norway

I was on a business trip in Oslo, Norway this past week. Thursday afternoon, I was able to get out for a great run around the city. I covered about 15 miles and took in many sights of the city. My run was a bit adventurous, as it included some Royal pomp and circumstance, a tense moment at the US embassy and a celebrity sighting. The weather was perfect and many Norwegians were on holiday, so the city was bustling and everyone was outdoors enjoying the sunshine. There’s plenty of daylight this time of year as it doesn’t get dark until 11 PM and the sun comes up around 3 AM!

Here are some pics I took on my run:

Johans Gate – A pedestrian area with street performers, shops and bars that leads up to the Royal Palace…





The Royal Palace – As I ran by, a parade and ceremony of some sort was taking place...

Vigeland Sculpture Park – A cool park with flower gardens and stone sculptures...

Me and the kids


Alex


Shan

As I was running past the backside of the US Embassy, the gate to the compound was opening up to let out a vehicle. It was bad timing, as my rapid movement down the sidewalk was perceived by the guard as activity that was not appreciated. The guard quickly turned his and his automatic weapon’s attention toward me and yelled something in Norwegian while waving me out of the gate area. I don’t think he said ”Hey, nice pace.” I continued on, getting my self out of harms way and was thankful that I didn’t get shot by my own embassy...


Nobel Peace Center - Kind of ironic I almost got shot and then ran by the Nobel Peace Center...

Oslo Harbor – Many outdoor seating restaurants and bars with loads of people hanging out enjoying views of the water and boats...

Akershus Fortress - A place with more great views of the harbor...

Oslo Opera House – I ran several laps up and around the Opera House. It’s pretty cool. It’s a big concrete structure that people can hangout and walk up and enjoy views of the city and harbor...

As I was finishing up the run, I saw a crowd of people around the entrance to a hotel. Curious, I stopped to check it out and apparently Bruce Springsteen was in town for a concert. His band was leaving the hotel and the folks were trying to get a glimpse. I saw Steven Van Zandt…

And Max Weinberg...

I ended the easy paced run, which was perfect for a taper period, back at my hotel...