March 02, 2014 (Lahti, Finland) – We noticed that Canada’s Dasha Gaiazova was not racing at the World Cup in Lahti, Finland, and contacted her along with Canadian Head Coach Justin Wadsworth. While nothing has been officially announced apparently she has been sanctioned by Cross Country Canada for partying in Sochi prior to her events being completed.

According to Gaiazova, “I was out celebrating on Feb 11th following the completion of my last Olympic individual sprint race. It was two days prior to the 10km CL race on Feb. 13th. I agree that it was a mistake to stay up late halfway through the Games and I regret my actions very much. I also agree with the team’s decision to send me home as a punishment instead of allowing me to start the remainder of the World Cups. I wish I didn’t go out to celebrate but it’s too late to change anything now.”

Gaiazova is not appealing the ruling and is back in Canmore recuperating and training while thinking about future plans. We have yet to hear back from Wadsworth on the issue and will continue to monitor the situation.