December 30, 2018 (Toblach, Italy) – Canada’s Alex Harvey earned a hard-fought 14th in the men’s 15km individual start as Russia’s Sergey Ustiugov took the win over Norway’s Simen Hegstad Krueger in second with Alexander Bolshunov (Rus) in third on Stage 2 at the Tour de Ski.

“I think it is a step in the right direction today. The result is good, the body is feeling decent too and that is positive for a distance race,” said Harvey who was tied with Maurice Manificat of France. The top-placed American was Simi Hamilton in 55th.

“I was looking for a bit better, but I am really happy with the last lap. I emptied the tank and gained about six spots so that was good. I need to make sure I’m a bit further up the ranking so I’m able to fight for the top-five or 10,” he continued.

“The course here is not hard or steep, but it is gradual terrain which makes it really challenging but suits my strengths,” added Harvey, who was third overall on the prestigious Tour de Ski last year. “You need to find the right speed and then work the whole way. There is no recovery out here and lots of time to lose if the legs blow up.

“Recovery is key in a stage event. I just have to make sure I continue to eat well, change the clothes quickly, get therapy and massage, go for light jogs at night and flush the legs. There is nothing special that is needed, but it is important to do all the little things right.”

Erik Bjornsen (USA) was 60th, Len Valjas (Can) was 70th, Kevin Bolger (USA) was 71st, Ben Lustgarten (USA) placed 74th and Bob Thompson (Can) was 83rd.

Results here.