Runner Chronicles: Rasmus Boldvig Rottwitt
The Runner Chronicles
Rasmus Boldvig Rottwitt: a Danish runner you simply can’t overlook. Hailing from Copenhagen, he’s a core member of NBRO, one of Denmark’s most exciting and dynamic running teams, where the vibe is all about community, commitment, and having a great time on the road. Rasmus has built an impressive running journey that not only reflects his dedication to the sport but also will inspires others to push their limits.
We wanted to dig a little deeper into Rasmus’s story: where did this journey begin, and what’s kept him so driven? Curious about his beginnings and what fuels his commitment, we asked Rasmus some questions. Here’s what he had to say.
I remember crossing the bridge near the finish line with my cousin and being yelled at by some old dude: “WE DONT WALK HERE”!
Image: Marc Iversen
Let’s start at the beginning, when and how did you start your running journey?
I think I began running largely because my dad was an avid runner, and after I stopped playing football, I needed a new sport to focus on. Honestly, I also felt it would be good for my health. I started with short distances, pushing myself gradually until a friend and I decided to take on a half marathon together. After finishing that, I soon completed a marathon. That experience inspired me to look for more motivation around me, finding it through various running communities and brands in Denmark that really celebrated the sport.
What has been your favorite race, and why?
I have to say I have a few favorites. The Copenhagen half marathon and marathon hold a special place in my heart. My first marathon in Copenhagen was especially memorable—I remember crossing the bridge near the finish line with my cousin and being yelled at by some old dude: “WE DONT WALK HERE”! We would never dare to. Also, the half marathon has grown into such an iconic race on a global scale, which makes running on my home turf feel even more special. And I can’t leave out the New York Marathon. I’ve been there as a spectator the last two years, and the energy is absolutely mind-blowing. It reminds me of a street festival we have in Denmark called Distortion, but with excited runners instead of drunk and puking teenagers, and nearly as much music! The vibe is electric, and there’s no better setting for a race. Not to mention the iconic surroundings. New York or nowhere.
Which moment in your running journey has stayed with you?
Running the Athens Marathon with my dad is a memory that will always stay with me. It was such an amazing experience, both for our family and for the scenic, historic route. I’ll never forget being handed olive branches while pushing through the hill starting at kilometer 10 and ending at kilometer 31, thinking the pain was over, just to be hurting for 10km down hill. Also after crossing the finish line, just breaking down in tears—partly from exhaustion and partly from the overwhelming emotions. I was still relatively new to running, so it felt like an out-of-body experience. It’s one I’ll carry with me forever.
Are you currently part of any running crews? If so, how has this impacted you and your running?
I try to run with my friends in NBRO as much as I can, but I have to admit it’s been challenging lately. Between spending time in the States, working full-time, managing a social life, and holding down a second job, it’s been tough to stay consistent. Even so, I’m determined to get back into the rhythm with the crew because they mean so much to me. I can’t imagine running with any other group, and the friends I’ve made there are some of the best in my life. I will always identify with NBRO. They’re not just “running friends”—they’re true friends. What NBRO has given me goes far beyond running. I always say I owe them everything, and I still mean that. I hope to be back running alongside them again soon.
What is your go to fuel for a training?
Maurten. #unsponsoredopinion
Who or what is your biggest inspiration?
I’m constantly inspired by people around the world who make running better for the love of the sport, not “just” for brand promotion or marketing purposes. Those can 100% be combined, and I think there’s a great beauty there! While I understand the need for brands to market and grow and of course those working in it (and working in marketing does not mean you can’t do it for the love or a greater purpose - at least I hope not, working in marketing for a running store myself), I deeply admire those who elevate the sport purely out of passion, especially those who support and celebrate elite runners and not just looking towards likes online. I feel like we’re in an era where running is overly focused on selling shoes through “reach” rather than showcasing the athletes and their stories. It should be the opposite way around; when there is money in the sport, take chances on how you can stand out. Now is actually the time to form the sport. We need more heroes in running, and I wholeheartedly respect and admire anyone trying to shift the narrative regardless if that's through marketing or not. I’ll try not to mention too many since I think I can quickly forget something, but the Bandit Unsponsored Project is in my opinion the best example of a combination of marketing and creating beauty in the sport. Helping the elites/sub elites to perform and support them whilst also showcasing the free marketing big brands get - beautiful.
What NBRO and Lost Boys have done for CPH and NYC Marathon by cheering on the last runners - the “faster” ones being there for the last ones is a great picture of how running can unite us in a day. To keep it straight; I know Lost Boys did it first, but I love we at NBRO could grab that inspiration and create a beautiful moment. Thank you to those who orchestrated that. Also, I’d have to say any project involving elite runners is great in my opinion. Giving money or attention to elites over influencers just makes me happy :) It’s the only way we can get people to follow along.
Personally, even though it might be too narrow, I have important people close who make me dare to try to do new stuff. First and foremost my lovely girlfriend Vibe who supports me in anything I do and forever believes in me and what I can accomplish. Her support and willingness to let me be too single minded and stupid in wanting to overreach means the world to me, and actually letting me take so many photos of her running haha. Also, my pal Carl who has been detrimental to me putting some work out there. Without him my Danish “jantelov” (law of not thinking you can accomplish much in short) would have benched me indefinitely. He is forever an inspiration for his spirit and belief in others, and just his way of thinking of his next of kin and support of his people - and the fact that his beautiful work comes in third just says so much about the two other traits. We got friends for life in the states from him recognizing a stranger (me) wearing a T-shirt and having the courage to say hi. It has forever taught me a lesson of how being present in the small moments can change your entire life.
Beyond running, I think other sports can offer a lot of inspiration too, particularly in how they portray athletes, their struggles, and their stories. I think cycling and F1 are a great example of that.
Any tips for people who are starting their own running journey?
Run with friends. Explore the world. Challenge yourself to go beyond what you think you can do.