February 5, 2005 – Canada’s Max Thompson laboured through thick, soft snow to secure his best-ever result on European soil during the nordic combined World Cup B Gunderson event in Karpacz, Poland on Saturday.

Thompson powered his way through the technically demanding course to finish in 20th spot during the 15-kilometre individual, to end the day in 28th place. The Calgary native crossed the finish line three minutes 29.5 seconds behind the leader.

“This has been my fastest race in Europe this season,” said Thompson, who started the cross-country portion of the event in 43rd place. “I had a more effective strategy during this race. I conserved my energy by skiing with the pack, then pulling out ahead near the end.”

The 20-year-old, who posted his best-ever result of 11th place during the World Cup B in Steamboat Springs, United States this past December, is confident that he is peaking right in time for the World Championships later this month.

“Today was definitely a confidence booster,” said Thompson. “This entire trip I’ve been skiing faster and stronger, and I have seen a natural progression throughout the season. I am peaking at the perfect time, and am hopeful that I will see a top-20 finish on Sunday.”

Ivan Rieder of Switzerland skied into the top position to take home the gold medal in Saturday’s event. Rieder was joined on the podium by Germany’s Marc Frey, who grabbed the silver medal just +.04 seconds off the leading pace, while Pavel Churavy of the Czech Republic locked up third to claim the bronze medal at +0.7. There were 60 competitors in today’s race.

Calgary’s Wes Harris posted the only other Canadian result, finishing the day in 44th spot at +9.29.2. Thunder Bay’s Jason Myslicki jumped into the top-six in his first jump off the K90 tower, but injured his knee and could not complete Saturday’s event.

Competition will continue on Sunday in Karpacz, Poland with the 7.5 kilometre sprint.