The Bridge Run: A Personal Journey Across the Öresund

Celebrating 25 Years of Connection

This past weekend, I participated in the Broloppet half marathon, a unique race held over the iconic Öresund Bridge that connects Sweden and Denmark. This year’s event marked the 25th anniversary of the bridge, which serves as a vital link between the two countries. The organizers emphasized the significance of the bridge as a symbol of unity, a statement that resonated deeply with me as a resident of Malmö.

Living in Malmö has offered me a unique perspective on how the bridge has transformed daily life for many in the region. The ability to commute to work in central Copenhagen within an hour has not only enhanced job opportunities for Swedes but has also fostered cultural exchange. The bridge allows Swedes to enjoy quick day trips to attractions like the Louisiana Museum and Tivoli Gardens while providing Danes easy access to the sights of Malmö and Lund, especially during times when the Swedish krona is more favorable for shopping.

A Meaningful Personal Connection

My personal connection to the Öresund Bridge runs deep. I have lived and worked in both Malmö and Copenhagen and have crossed the bridge for many significant moments in my life. I first crossed it to catch a train for my first date with my Swedish husband, who lived in Malmö at the time. The bridge played a crucial role in our wedding journey and even during the birth of our daughter. When my family visited Denmark during the pandemic, it was the bridge that facilitated their first meeting with my daughter, as they were unable to travel to Malmö.

This Sunday, I had the pleasure of crossing the bridge on foot with my father, who is an avid runner. This achievement was the culmination of over a year of training, much of which took place along Ribersborg’s beautiful seafront, with its views of the bridge. Now, alongside 40,000 other runners, I can proudly say I have crossed the bridge in a race.

A Community Event with Family Ties

The Broloppet also resonates with many in southern Sweden and Denmark, as families come together to celebrate the shared history and connections facilitated by the bridge. My daughter’s family has participated in this race across generations, including my father-in-law, who skated over the bridge on rollerblades 25 years ago. Many participants shared the joy of making personal connections to the bridge, illustrating its importance in the lives of those who call this region home.

However, the connection between Sweden and Denmark has not always been trouble-free. Border checks that were initially meant to be temporary have lingered, and restrictions exist for non-EU citizens wishing to work across borders. Additionally, the costs associated with crossing the bridge can be high, particularly for those earning in Swedish kronor, and train services often face delays or cancellations.

Reflections on the Run

As for the event itself, while it brought together a large crowd of passionate runners, the organization faced its share of challenges. Long restroom queues before the race caused some participants to rush to the starting line, while transportation issues post-race left many waiting for buses to Denmark. Some runners even encountered a bottleneck in the final stretch leading to the finish line. Yet, despite these hiccups, the overwhelming sentiment among participants was positive. The experience of running over the bridge fostered a sense of community, revealing the bridge’s significant role in bringing people together.

I am not certain I will run the bridge again soon, but the prospect of returning for the 50th anniversary in 2050 is intriguing. By then, there may even be a metro line connecting both cities, further solidifying ties across borders. As I reflect on the event, I feel a profound shared experience with all the runners who joined me in crossing the Öresund, creating lasting memories beyond the challenges we faced.

The Öresund Bridge continues to be a powerful symbol of connectivity, and as we celebrate its history, we look forward to what the future may hold for this remarkable link between Sweden and Denmark.