January 12, 2017 (Ruhpolding, Germany) – Canada battled to 10th in the women’s 4x6km relay in Ruhpolding (GER) on Thursday as Germany came from behind for the win at home with France claiming second over Norway at the line in a thrilling race. Team USA’s debut squad finished 17th.

The Canadian team of Megan Tandy, Rosanna Crawford, Emma Lunder and Julia Ransom shot well using only three spares and was as high as 8th courtesy of Crawford who started the second leg in 15th from Tandy.

“We had a great shooting day today, and some really fast skis,” said Crawford. “I think with just three spares for the whole team, our expectations should be quite a bit higher, but this year the ski speed seems to be below where we usually are.”

“Ruhpolding has one of the easier ranges on the World Cup circuit with little to no wind,” Crawford added. “It was raining for most of the morning and through the first two legs, but the track was still quite fast and held up nicely.”

Dunklee fired up to second place on the first leg but three extra shots in her first standing bumped her to 12th place. She tagged Phaneuf,  the youngest member of the team, in 11th. Phaneuf shot well using two spares but dropped to 16th as Egan took over. Both she and Reid used three spares for 17th overall.

“I enjoy the extra challenge of starting at the back of a mass start,” said Dunklee. “I’m good at weaving through crowds and it’s incredibly satisfying to pass lots of people. It was wonderful to finally put together a full women’s team and we look forward to improving upon today’s performance in the coming weeks.”

Norway took an early lead but a collision with Germany put them behind as the Germans took over with Italy, Ukraine and France chasing. Norway battled back and Marte Olsbu left the final standing range out front but Laura Dahlmeier chased her down for the win.

France’s Celia Aymonier battled from fourth to overtake the Ukraine and Norway for second with the Norwegians settling for 3rd.

Full results here.

 

 

Full results here.