A Legacy of Footprints: Aija Alksne Honored for Lifetime Dedication to Orienteering
Latvian orienteering icon Aija Alksne has been bestowed with the prestigious “2024 Lifetime Achievement Award” by the Latvian orienteering Federation,a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport.
Alksne’s influence extends far beyond her own competitive achievements. She has nurtured generations of orienteers, leading groups at Straupe, Rozula, and Stalbe schools, and serving as a dedicated coach at the Cēsu Sports School.Among her notable protégés are Sandra Grosberga,a standout orienteer,and Zanda Abzaloni,a long-standing member of the Latvian national team.
Her contributions go beyond coaching. Alksne has been instrumental in organizing the popular “Meridians” orienteering series, ensuring its continued success. Recognizing the importance of preserving the sport’s history, she has diligently collected materials about the “Meridians” orienteering club, safeguarding its legacy for future generations.
Alksne’s vision extends to making orienteering accessible to all ages. She established the “Rudzunirekstas” family orienteering competition, fostering a love for the sport across generations.
A true embodiment of her teachings, Alksne remains an active competitor, demonstrating her enduring passion for orienteering and inspiring her students to pursue their own athletic dreams. Her dedication serves as a powerful example, proving that the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of excellence can endure a lifetime.
A Lifetime of Footprints: an Interview with Orienteering Legend, Aija Alksne
Today, we have the distinct pleasure of speaking with Aija Alksne, a true icon in the world of Latvian orienteering. Recently awarded the “2024 Lifetime Achievement Award” by the Latvian Orienteering Federation, Ms. Alksne’s dedication to the sport spans decades, impacting countless lives both on and off the course. Welcome, Ms. Alksne.
Aija Alksne: Thank you for having me.It’s an honor to be here.
Moderator: Your dedication to nurturing young talent is truly remarkable. You’ve led groups at Straupe, Rozula, and Stalbe schools, and coached at Cēsu sports School.Can you tell us about some of the athletes you’ve mentored,and what brings you the most joy in coaching?
Aija Alksne: Seeing the spark of passion ignite in a young orienteer’s eyes is the greatest reward. I’ve been blessed to work with many talented individuals, including Sandra Grosberga, who has blossomed into a standout orienteer, and Zanda Abzaloni, who has earned a spot on the Latvian national team. Witnessing their growth and success is incredibly fulfilling.
Moderator: You’ve also played a pivotal role in organizing the “Meridians” orienteering series. Can you speak to the importance of keeping this tradition alive and accessible to all ages?
Aija Alksne: “Meridians” is more than just a competition; it’s a party of our community. It allows orienteers of all levels to connect, share their passion, and challenge themselves. I believe access to sport should be universal, and we’ve worked hard to make “Meridians” welcoming for families and individuals alike.
moderator: You’ve even established the “Rudzunirekstas” family orienteering competition to introduce the sport to younger generations. What motivated you to create this initiative?
Aija Alksne: Orienteering is much more than just navigating a map. It instills problem-solving skills, fosters teamwork, and encourages a deep appreciation for nature.
“Rudzunirekstas” aims to make these benefits accessible to the whole family. Seeing generations come together to enjoy the sport, conquering challenges side-by-side, is truly rewarding.
Moderator: Your story is truly inspiring. You’ve not only nurtured young athletes but also ensured the preservation of orienteering history through your meticulous documentation of the ”Meridians” orienteering club. do you think safeguarding sporting legacies is crucial?
Aija Alksne: Absolutely. Sport is more than just competition; it’s a tapestry of stories, dedication, and triumphs. Preserving those narratives ensures future generations can learn from the past, appreciate the evolution of the sport, and be inspired by those who paved the way.
Moderator: You remain an active competitor, demonstrating your enduring passion for orienteering. What advice would you give to aspiring athletes looking to follow in your footsteps?
Aija Alksne: Never lose sight of the joy of the sport.embrace the challenges,learn from your mistakes,and never stop pushing your limits. Most importantly, remember that orienteering is about the journey, not just the destination. Enjoy the process, connect with nature, and cherish the camaraderie of fellow orienteers.
Moderator: Thank you for sharing your wisdom and your inspiring story, Ms. Alksne.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts. What role do you think mentors play in the development of young athletes? Have you ever been inspired by a coach or mentor? Let us know in the comments below.
