December 19, 2010 (La Clusaz, France) – Norway, it seems, is sending the message loud and clear: Come, if you dare. Building on teammate Marit Bjoergen’s astonishing success on the World Cup circuit this year, the Norwegian women took the lead early and held it clear to the finish.

Vibeke Skofterud and Astrid Jacobsen lead out of the stadium for Norway I and II respectively, opening up a 15-second gap on the rest of the field. Therese Johaug took over for Norway I and widened the gap another 18-seconds, skiing in fine form. Italy’s Mariana Longa also skied a strong leg, pulling her team into 2nd by the end of 10km.

Once the skaters took over, Norwegians Kristin Stoermer Steira and anchor Marit Bjoergen left no doubt, widening the final winning margin to 57 seconds. Italy finished 2nd and Sweden’s Charlotte Kalla fought hard and out-paced Finland’s Krista Lahteenmaki to secure third.

“It was a good race for me,” Norway’s Stoermer Steira told FIS XC after the race. “I did my own race in front as I had already a comfortable gap. I really like the track here, it suits me well and the atmosphere is good. The victory for our team is great, we all know a relay is a relay and anything can happen but today all of us were very strong.”

Italy’s Arianna Follis was also happy with her team’s performance. “I did my race without any stress. It’s a hard course but I could ski without the pressure from behind and made my race. Second place is great for our young team. Now I wish everyone a “Merry Christmas” – enjoy the holiday!”

Both the USA and Canada were not on the start line as both are in the process of rebuilding their relay squads. Meanwhile the take-home message of the day is that Norway is in a class of its own. As hosts of the 2010 Nordic World Championships they will certainly be the ones to beat on their home turf.

Full results HERE.