Citi Volunteer Award 2023 nominees: In memory of Tor Undheim

Norwegian posthumously nominated for contribution to Para Nordic skiing as one of three contenders for the honour, which can be voted for online as part of the 2023 PARA SPORT Awards 31 Aug 2023
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a man standing on a stage speaking into a microphone
Tor Undheim spent 15 years helping Para Nordic skiing grow into the sport it is today
ⒸSolveig Heier Johanessen
By PARA SPORT

The Citi Volunteer Award recognises someone who has given up their own time to support the growth of Para sport as a volunteer; either as a classifier, technical official, event support or IPC member support.

Tor Undheim: An unforgettable Para Nordic skiing legacy 

When Tor Undheim passed away in March 2022 following a short illness, the global Para Nordic skiing community was devastated. As a member of its Sport Technical Committee for 15 years, including time as Head of Competition, the Norwegian played a pivotal role in the development of the sport and its competitions worldwide.

Tor (left) was one of the most well-known figures at Para Nordic competitions ⒸLuc Perceival


Tor’s legacy can be felt in almost all aspects of Para Nordic skiing today; from the current ranking and results calculations to the development of the cross-country relay - one of the most popular events on the Para Nordic skiing competition programme.

The Norwegian (left) helped create the current ranking and results system. ⒸSolveig Heier Johanessen


As results processor at all World Cups and Championships, Tor ensured consistency and fairness right until his last competitions at the Lillehammer World Championships and Östersund World Cup Final in early 2022.

Tor truly devoted his life to Para Nordic skiing and everyone in the sport’s family is immeasurably grateful for his dedication and passion, with which he left an indelible impact that will always be remembered.    

Tor has left a long-lasting legacy in Para Nordic skiing Ⓒ Solveig Heier Johanessen


The 2023 Awards  

The 2023 PARA SPORT Awards will be organised alongside the IPC General Assembly on 27 September 2023 in Bahrain. 

They will celebrate the terrific achievements of summer and winter sport athletes in one event, along with recognising the work of volunteers, coaches, and members of the IPC whose efforts have contributed to strengthening the impact of Para sports worldwide.

Ten categories will be awarded overall, seven of which will take place in Bahrain. The Citi Volunteer Award is the only award that has a public vote, which runs online from 1-15 September.