IML - Denmark | corysan.net

The Hærvejsmarch, known as the Danish IML march, has a rich history dating back to June 1969 when it first commenced at Viborg Barracks. This location, which housed the Prince's Life Regiment from 1932 to 2001, holds significant historical value. In 1986, the Hærvejsmarch, along with seven other international marches, established the IML-International Walking Association, solidifying its place in the global walking community.

Widely regarded as the largest and most prestigious march in Denmark, the Hærvejsmarch typically sees participation from 6000 to 7000 individuals, with peak years in the eighties drawing over 12,000 marchers. The challenging route spans up to 2 x 45 kilometers through the picturesque and hilly terrain of central Jutland around Viborg, providing both a physical and scenic experience for participants.

Viborg, one of Denmark's oldest cities, was founded in the early 11th century and has served as a historical hub of royal power and central administration for Jutland. The majestic cathedral, construction of which began in the early 12th century, stands as a remarkable landmark along the march route, offering a glimpse into the region's architectural and religious heritage.

Despite its popularity and significance, it is unfortunate that the Hærvejsmarch medals do not hold official recognition as Danish medals. Uniform regulations strictly prohibit their display on the uniforms of the Danish Armed Forces, creating a dilemma for march participants who have a military background.

Formerly, at the Prince's Life Regiment, completing the Hærvejsmarch was a mandatory rite of passage, endorsed by the Regimental Commander, Colonel Jens Kristian Lund. Even HRH Prince Joachim, the current march patron, completed the march during his tenure as a serving officer at the Prince's Life Regiment, underscoring its importance within military circles.

Following the amalgamation of the Prince's Life Regiment and the Jutland Dragoon Regiment, there is no longer a sanctioned platform within the Danish Armed Forces for individuals to proudly exhibit the Hærvejsmarch medal, much to the disappointment of past and present participants.

Despite the restrictions on military wear, the Hærvejsmarch continues to attract walking enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique blend of physical challenge and cultural exploration in the heart of Denmark.

Participating in the Hærvejsmarch not only strengthens one's endurance but also fosters a deep appreciation for Denmark's heritage and natural beauty, making it a cherished tradition for many individuals seeking a fulfilling walking experience.

As the Hærvejsmarch remains a prominent event in the Danish walking calendar, its legacy of promoting physical fitness, camaraderie, and historical reverence endures, attracting participants from near and far to engage in this unforgettable walking journey through the captivating landscapes of Viborg and its surroundings.

The Northern Black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix) is the logo of the "Hærvejsmarchen"

The name of this bird in Danisk is:

Urfugl or Urkok.

It lived in Central Jutland on the large heathlands before becoming extinct in 2001.

Wikipedia (link)

Hærvejsmarchen

Bronze medal for completing the first year

Hærvejsmarchen

Silver medal for completing the fifth year

Hærvejsmarchen

Gold medal for completing the ninth year

Hærvejsmarchen

Two Bronze "Urkok" for the medal ribbon for the third year's completion

Hærvejsmarchen

A Bronze "Urkok" for the medal ribbon for the second year's completion

Hærvejsmarchen

A Silver "Urkok" for the medal ribbon for the sixth year's completion

Hærvejsmarchen

Two Silver "Urkok" for the medal ribbon for the seventh year's completion

Hærvejsmarchen

Three Bronze "Urkok" for the medal ribbon for the fourth year's completion

Hærvejsmarchen

Three Silver "Urkok" for the medal ribbon for the eighthyear's completion

Hærvejsmarchen

Gold medal with oak leaves for tenth year of completion

Hærvejsmarchen

Gold medal with enamel oak leaf for fifteenth year of completion

Roman numeral 11 for the medal ribbon for eleventh year completion

Roman numeral 16 for the medal ribbon for sixteenth year of completion

Roman numeral 12 for the medal ribbon for twelfth year of completion

Roman numeral 17 for the medal ribbon for seventeenth year of completion

Roman numeral 13 for the medal ribbon for thirteenth year of completion

Roman numeral 18 for the medal ribbon for eighteenth year completion

Roman numeral 14 for the medal ribbon for fourteen years of completion

Roman numeral 19 for the medal ribbon for nineteenth year of completion

Hærvejsmarchen

Antique Silver medal with oak leaves for twentieth year of completion

Two "Urkok"

in gold enamel for the medal ribbon for the

twenty-second

year of completion

One "Urkok"

in gold enamel for the medal ribbon for the

twenty-first

year of completion

Three "Urkok"

in gold enamel for the medal ribbon for the

twenty-three

year of completion

Four "Urkok"

in gold enamel for the medal ribbon for the

twenty-four

year of completion

Hærvejsmarchen

Silver medal with Gold crown and "Urkok" for twenty-fifth year of completion

Two "Urkok"

in gold enamel for the medal ribbon for the

twenty-seven

year of completion

One "Urkok"

in gold enamel for the medal ribbon for the

twenty-six

year of completion

Three"Urkok"

in gold enamel for the medal ribbon for the

twenty-eight

year of completion

CORONA 2020

In 2020, the entire world was severely affected by the Corona Pandemic, leading to the cancellation of almost all international walking events.

As an alternative to the canceled events, the concept of "virtual march" was introduced. You walk local routes and track your walk using GPS, after which you submit your results to the organizer of the virtual march.

The Hærvejsmarch virtual march lasted for over half a year, during which you could report all the kilometers you walked...

CORONA 2021

In 2021, the world was once again severely impacted by the Corona Pandemic, resulting in the cancellation of virtually all international walking events.

As an alternative to the canceled Hærvejsmarch, the opportunity to walk the regular route in Viborg was provided. Participants had the entire week to complete it, allowing them to spread out over a large time frame, with all festivities being canceled.

Team plaque

Prior to 2014, teams that completed the march were awarded a team plaque. The requirements for military teams included a march of 2 x 45 km with a minimum of 12 participants.

These plaques were symbolic rewards for the team's achievements and a source of pride. Teams had to train hard and collaborate to earn this honor.

Following the changes in 2014, these plaques were replaced by other new prizes, but the memory of the honorable tradition lives on among old veterans and participants.

A plaque represented a dedicated effort and the willingness to overcome challenges.

Hærvejsmarchens Fortjenestemedalje

Merit Medal for the "Hærvejsmarch"

Awarded to those who have contributed to the organization of the annual Hærvejsmarch. Known as the "Helper Medal."

The medal symbolizes appreciation for voluntary effort and dedication to the community.

Recipients are celebrated for their commitment and support to a tradition-rich event.

Miniature medals

Many of the international IML walking events sell

4-5 cm high miniature versions of their medals for use on hats, backpacks, etc...
A nice little souvenir from the event in question.

Souvenirs patch from the 50th anniversary of the Hærvejsmarch in 2018

Souvenir patch from the Hærvejsmarch

Souvenir patch from the Hærvejsmarch 2013

Souvenir patch from the Hærvejsmarch

Souvenir badge from the Hærvejsmarch

Souvenir patch from the Hærvejsmarch

Souvenir patch from the Hærvejsmarch 2012

Souvenir patch from the Hærvejsmarch

In 2014, the regulations have been changed so that all routes are now awarded the same medal, at the same time it has become free to choose how far you want to go.

You can now get the Hærvejsmarch medal by completing a route of 2 X 5 Km...

Until the changes in 2014, there was also a smaller route of 2 x 20 Km for those who do not have the courage to complete the full march of 2 x 45 Km.

This route was used a lot by teams from different companies from the Viborg area who use the opportunity to "do something together", also there are many individuals who joined for the sake of "fun"...

Since the route was just long enough to meet the IML requirement of at least 20 Km per day, there are also a number of foreigners who took the opportunity to get the Danish IML event bar in the "cheap" way...

I myself have taken the easy solution for two years and participated on this 2 x 20 Km route...