Sondre Norheim's grave
Rev. Luther Hanson, Joan Haaland Paddock and Bob Gustafson at Sondre Norheim's grave in Denbigh.
Skiing became a popular competitive sport in Norway in the 1860'ies. One of the best skiers was Sondre Norheim of Morgedal in Telemark. An extraordinary athlete, he was a daredevil so graceful that skiing seemed the natural way for him to move. Energetic and highly competitive, Norheim entered many contests and won numerous prizes. He pioneered in new ways of skiing while he instructed and inspired countless young skiers. A kind man with a "nice smile", he was the hero of the young people of Morgedal.
Norheim showed the children how to jump, and he made "featherlight landings" even when he was nearly 50 years old.