January 04, 2013 (Oberhof, Germany) – Tough conditions including deep soft snow, rain and fog did not deter the Ukrainian women’s relay team who persevered using five spare rounds to win the women’s 4x6km relay yesterday as round four of the WCup series got underway in Oberhof. France finished second, with four spare rounds and always strong Germany settled for third on home turf suffering two penalties and and eight spare rounds.

The Czech team took control with Poland staying close but Germany looked ready as Miriam Gössner skied well to take the lead only to lose it to the Poles with poor shooting as the Ukraine, Norway and Russia nipped at their heels. By the third leg it was the Ukraine that emerged as the strongest contender.

On the final leg Vita Semerenko shot clean in prone to keep the pressure on as France and Germany battled behind for second and third but they were no match for Ukrainian squad as Semerenko claimed the victory. Marie Dorin Habert anchored well for France shooting clean for cleaned with Germany in third. No Canadian or US teams competed.

“Regardless of our lead, I felt a bit of pressure but I managed to control my nerves and bring a wonderful New Year present to my team,” said Semerenko.

Full results HERE.