Arne Robertson
If you’ve ever attended a local race, scrolled through the Fargo running groups on Facebook, or found yourself suddenly being pulled into a selfie with a very enthusiastic runner, you’ve probably already met Arne Robertson.
Arne is one of those people whose presence you feel before you even see him. He brings energy, excitement, and an honest, heartfelt love for running and community that’s impossible to miss. For more than four years, his nominator has known him through run groups and race meetups, and in that time one thing has never changed: Arne shows up. Every. Single. Time.
When asked to describe him in one word, the answer came instantly: Inspirational. And honestly, that might even be an understatement. Arne pours himself into everything that matters to him: his running, his physical and mental health, his friendships, his faith, his honesty about the highs and lows. He doesn’t let setbacks slow him down, and he doesn’t let tough races define him. He just keeps going, one determined step at a time.
His character shines everywhere: on race mornings, in Facebook posts, during casual midweek run groups, or while he’s hyping up friends at the starting line. You always know when Arne is around! There’s laughter, encouragement, a burst of energy… and yes, the strong likelihood that a selfie is about to happen. It’s his signature move, and honestly? The community wouldn’t have it any other way.
Arne has also made a real impact on people who have walked through their own challenges. His positivity, his hugs, his transparency, and his ability to celebrate even the small steps forward have inspired others to keep moving, sometimes literally one foot in front of the other.
In 2024, Arne hit a milestone that says everything about who he is: 100 races completed at the Mark Knutson Friday Night 5K. It was the perfect race for such a moment, honoring a friend he held dear. And the celebration that followed, balloons, a card, cheers, tears, hugs, a group meal, showed just how loved and supported Arne is in return.
He’s also known for posting his runs, sharing his victories, and taking selfies with every friend he can gather. And sometimes, in the intensity of trying to capture the perfect group photo, he might throw out a quick “Take the damn picture!” with a few colorful extras. But that’s Arne: honest, passionate, fully himself. And always coming from a place of love and enthusiasm.
Through good days and tough days, Arne lives out the reminder he gives others: just keep going. There will always be someone in your corner, cheering you on! And most days, that someone is Arne himself.
From the nominator:
Arne, I'm grateful for and blessed by your friendship. You continue to inspire me (and many others) with your dedication and determination to all things in life. Your transparency and honesty about the highs and lows shows the strength you have. Thank you for being you. The world needs more people like you, Arne.
