Adolf G. Arntsen and Trygve Hamre (EN)

Two Honorary Members!

Adolf G. Arntsen (1915–2007) was a central figure in IK Start and above all a pioneer in the sport of orienteering, both in the club and in Kristiansand. He became a member of IK Start in 1931 and was active in multiple sports including cycling, bandy, skiing, and kayaking, to name a few. His dedication to the club was immense, and he was considered the club's number one volunteer enthusiast. He devoted countless hours to the club magazine Starteren, Starthallen, football matches, security duties at Kristiansand Stadium, and activities within the senior club and various committees and events for decades.

He was awarded the club’s Gold Badge in 1947 and became an honorary member in 1975.

Arntsen was one of the leading athletes in IK Start’s orienteering group, which produced many local champions. His name is often mentioned alongside other notable figures such as Trygve Kimestad and Aimar Lundal. In addition to a long athletic career, he was also a capable organizer at various events, both within Start and in broader contexts.

Besides his involvement in sports, Arntsen was also known for his role in the Norwegian resistance during World War II. After the war, he was active in the Home Guard for over 40 years. In 1995, he was awarded the Gold Badge of Honour from the Vest-Agder Sports Federation for his versatile contributions to sports, and he was also named an honorary member of Kristiansand Kayak Club.

Adolf G. Arntsen left a lasting legacy in Kristiansand’s sports community, through his work with IK Start, his contributions to orienteering, and his commitment to civic life.

Trygve Hamre was a key player for IK Start in the club’s early years. With his elegant and intelligent playing style, he dominated as a center-half from 1919 to 1936 and is regarded as the club’s best player during its first 50 years.

He was well-known and respected far beyond Kristiansand and is described as one of Norway’s finest in his position. Still, he only played in one national match — a B-team game against Sweden in 1931 — likely because he played outside the central football hubs.

Hamre was a role model both on and off the field, known for his sporting attitude and natural leadership. After his playing career, he remained committed to the club’s development, especially in youth work. As a member of the junior committee, he contributed to Start’s impressive streak of 16 district championships over 21 years.

He also helped establish the club’s Senior Council in 1947 and was elected deputy chairman. The Senior Council, consisting of the club’s most experienced members, continues to serve as an important support body for club leadership.

Trygve Hamre was named an honorary member in 1946.

His name deserves to live on as a symbol of loyalty, leadership, and true club spirit in IK Start.

The photo is from 1947, when Adolf Arntsen received the Gold Badge and Trygve Hamre was appointed honorary member.