February 07, 2016 (Oslo, Norway) – The USA’s Sadie Bjornsen led three teammates into the points battling foggy and challenging conditions as Norway’s Therese Johaug dominated the women’s 30m CL for a decisive victory at the legendary Holmenkollen stadium at the World Cup in Oslo, Norway.

Jess Diggins and Sadie Bjoernsen © Nordic Focus

Fellow Norwegian Ingvild Oestberg claimed second at 3:46.5 behind while Anne Kylloenen delivered a remarkable career-best result for Finland finishing third. It was Johaug’s third Holmenkollen 30km title and her first classic win and the largest margin of victory at Holmenkollen and in a women’s FIS World Cup race.

Therese Johaug (NOR) © Nordic Focus

Bjornsen crossed the line in 22nd place just ahead of Liz Stephen in 23rd with Jessie Diggins in 25th for a solid US effort despite the conditions. Just out of the points was their teammate Rosie Brennan in 33rd followed by Caitlin Patterson in 36th, while the lone Canadian racing, Emily Nishikawa, finished 39th. Patterson had a solid result and is joining the U.S. Team after her successful results at the USSA Super Tours and the 2016 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships.

It was a tough day for Bjornsen but racing at the Holmenkollen is hard to beat for race atmosphere. “Today was one of the more challenging Holmenkollen races I have taken part in, but regardless, I still managed to truly enjoy the atmosphere out there while I was racing. Conditions were challenging the entire race, and our team fought hard to stay in the mix.

#14 Sadie Bjornsen (USA) © Nordic Focus

“Unfortunately, my skis were not able to compete with the others out there today, so I did what I could with what I had. It was fun to share the majority of the kilometers with Jessie as we pushed each other along, and then chase Liz some there at the end.

“I am looking forward to heading to Stockholm soon, and racing on a course I have never been before! In the meantime, I am looking forward to some rest after that challenging race we just finished,” commented Bjornsen.

Final podium © Nordic Focus

Johaug charged from the start and set a relentless pace that no one could match as the race was for the remaining podium spots. “It was a very good race today. I was little bit nervous before the start. I had been sick and I did not know how the shape was. I wanted to keep focused on the technique. I was surprised to hear from the coaches that the gap was so big. It was probably my best race ever on Holmenkollen,” said Johaug.

Stephen took everything in stride and was happy with her day. “I had much more energy and spunk today and I loved the foggy, wet conditions.” said Liz Stephen. I was mentally ready to charge again and my body responded positively to each push.

Results here.