December 30, 2012 (Oberhof, Germany) – The USA’s Kikkan Randall started in the TdS leader’s bib for the first time in her career in the Stage 2 women’s 9km CL but was chased down by Charlotte Kalla (SWE) and defending champ Justyna  (POL). The Polish star asserted her strength early taking the lead after 6min and never reliquished it winning by a 35s-margin at the finish.

Kikkan Randall (USA) in the leader's bib tries to stave off the chasers. © Nordic Focus

Claiming second in her own display of skiing prowess was Norway’s Therese Johaug who moved up from 13th into second place just after the 3.7km mark. The battle for third came from the 10-strong chase group lead by Kristin Stoermer Steira who were 10s behind the four early leaders Kowalczyk,  Johaug, Kalla and Randall, as the racers were challenged by soft snow conditions.

Charlotte Kalla (SWE) leading Kikkan Randall (USA) © Nordic Focus

Just before the second lap began Kalla and Randall were caught by the chasers as Kowalczyk extended her lead and Johaug established herself in second at 25s behind the Polish queen. By the 6.7km mark Kowalczyk gained another 10s as Kalla and Randall sat in 10th and 11th.

Justyna Kowalczyk (POL) © Nordic Focus

At the finish Kowalczyk stamped her reign on the Tour taking a commanding overall lead adding bonus seconds as Johaug claimed second and Finland’s rising star, Anne Kylloenen, bested the chasers to take third with Randall ending up 14th.

Liz Stephen held her own placing 23rd while Holly Brooks had a tougher day in the tracks but still finished in the points placing 25th, while Jessie Diggins moved up into 50th from 62nd.

Full results HERE.