Hallgeir Brenden was a Norwegian cross-country skier and steeplechase runner. He competed in various skiing events at the 1952, 1956 and 1960 Winter Olympics and won two individual gold medals in 1952 and 1956 and two silver medals in the 4 × 10 km relay in 1952 and 1960. He also won three events at the Holmenkollen ski festival: 18 km in 1952 and 15 km in 1956 and 1963. He received the Egebergs Ærespris in 1952 and the Holmenkollen medal in 1955.

The Holmenkollen Medal is an honorary skiing award that has been issued by the Skiforeningen in Norway since 1895. It recognizes the outstanding achievements of skiing athletes who place at the top of international championships and at Holmenkollen Ski Festival events, as well as those who contribute to advancement of the sport of skiing. The Holmenkollen Medal is considered Norwegian skiing highest honor.