February 11, 2018 (Pyeongchang, South Korea) – Canada’s Alex Harvey battled to 8th in cold and windy conditions in the men’s 30km Skiathlon as Simen Hegstad Krueger won gold at his Olympic debut, leading a Norwegian podium sweep. Martin Johnsrud Sundby claimed the silver and Hans Christer Holund took home the bronze.

Krueger was involved in an early crash that put him in last place but he slowly worked his way back to the front of the competition and launched an attack with about 5km to go that no one could match.

“The Norwegians were extremely strong today, stronger than any other nation,” said Harvey. “The victory was played with three kilometres left. At 1.5 kilometres to go, I was in the perfect spot for the silver. I just did not have the legs. It is disappointing. I can only blame myself.” Despite the disappointment it was his best Olympic performance so far with more races to come.

American Scott Patterson had a strong race crossing the line in 18th followed by Canadian Devon Kershaw in 36th, Erik Bjornsen (USA) in 42nd and Graeme Killick in 45th.

“It seems a little funny to compare, but Pyeongchang feels like Kincaid at home in many ways. The wind played a big factor in the race but overall my skis were great. In the classic leg my group was only 15 seconds behind at one point. My transitions was fine (he was 27th) and in the skate my group did a great job and I was able to move up,” said Patterson. “I’m happy with the result, and while I did have a higher World Cup finish in Korea last year it was against a weaker field. I would consider this my best World Cup or Olympic result so far, however, I’m always looking for more. I’m really excited heading into the next distance races of the Games.”

It was a tough day at the office for Kershaw. “I had a really, really hard race,” said Kershaw. “I was struggling in the wind and didn’t have it today. I’m quite disappointed.”

“My skis were good but the course was difficult with the wind and snow blown in the track. I fought pretty hard when Niskanen stretched it out in the Classic leg. I definitely over-cooked it there,” said Killick. “I was hoping to be in with the front group but should have skied a little more relaxed when the pace surged. I think it’s difficult to gauge the shape from today but I did feel good through the start and burned my matches too early. Definitely will focus on staying within myself for the 50km.”

Results here.