October 26, 2011 – Elite Italian cross-country ski racer Magda Genuin, 32, recently announced on her personal website her intention to retire from World Cup racing. In the post, Genuin wrote that she returned early from a training camp in Val Senales after making her decision after a successful 11-year career, which included four World Cup individual podiums and a fifth-place finish at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
“It is not a bolt from the blue, already last spring as I anticipated that I would need to find a period of stimulation and see if I still had the ability to return after the disappointment of how things had gone to the World Championships in Oslo,” Genuin wrote about her decision (translated from Italian via Google Translate).
“I leave the World Cup, but I do not leave cross-country skiing, because it’s what I’ve done all my life and I still like to ski, but now I will only do for me!” she added.
Read the full article on the FIS website HERE.
Read Genuin’s announcement HERE (Italian).
June 23, 2011 – The Organizers of the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 2011 in Oslo (NOR) announced last week that they were able to close their books highly successfully, producing a profit of 40 million NOK (5 million Euro / CHF 6.1 million) from the event.
“The main reason for the good result was the higher than expected ticket income. We maintained good control over our costs until the end, which helped deliver this successful financial result,” said Oslo 2011 Chairman of the Board Svein Aaser.
The Oslo 2011 Organizers were able to sell tickets for 38 million NOK over budget. Aaser also stressed that Oslo 2011 was organized without governmental support. In effect, Oslo 2011 was set up as a joint company by the Norwegian Ski Federation and the Federation for the Promotion of Skiing (Skifoereningen) with starting capital of just 2 million NOK.
“Much could have gone wrong, with warm weather or rain or some global catastrophe,” Aaser added. “We are very pleased that we had strong management and luck with many external influences.”
The profit will be used to promote sport of Skiing in Norway, providing a healthy foundation for better and more World Cup events, among other things. Norway also already plans a bid for another FIS World Championship in the future.
April 08, 2011 – Andrus Veerpalu’s B Sample has tested positive for Human Growth Hormone, finally confirming the rumours of alleged doping that first began to circulate about the Estonian when he retired from the sport on the eve of the Oslo 2011 Nordic World Championships, according to ERR News.
The announcement was made by the Estonian Ski Association yesterday. At the press conference, the two-time Olympic Champion maintained his innocence and denied knowingly taking any banned substances.
March 24, 2011 – The general feedback on the 2011 World Championship in Oslo was that it was the biggest most spectacular World Championship ever held. Over 100,000 spectators were in the stands or out around the track each day for the last weekend of competition, and even the qualification race the day before the first official World Championship medal event had a bigger crowd than most World Cup events in central Europe. Seven Australian athletes competed – Esther Bottomley, Ben Sim, Callum Watson, Ewan Watson, Nick Grimmer, Mark van der Ploeg and Chris Darlington. The competition highlights for the Australian Team were Esther Bottomley’s 44th place in the Sprint Freestyle, the 19th place of Ben Sim and Callum Watson in the Team Sprint, and the 10km qualification race in which Mark van der Ploeg and Ewan Watson finished 4th and 6th. The lowlight was the overlapping of the men’s relay team before Mark van der Ploeg had a chance to start to the final leg. Waxing conditions were the most challenging the team has experienced probably since the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, not with grip waxing as can often be the case but from the glide perspective. The overall summary: Great atmosphere, incredible event, some solid results, it would have nice to have some faster skis and higher results in a couple of the distance events.
Most of the team athletes are now back in Australia, with the exception of Esther Bottomley who finished a very creditable 14th in the Engadin Ski Marathon two weeks ago and plans to race the Swiss Championship next weekend.
More details from the World Championship can be viewed on the AUS XC Website HERE.
National Rollerski Event, Canberra, April 23-24
On the Easter weekend of April 23-24 Ski Australia is organising some rollerski events in Canberra. While there are still some details to be sorted out with ACT Roads and the land managers, the preliminary schedule of events is as follows:
Saturday April 23
– 10:00 am – 3.3km Uphill Classic Time Trial – Mt Stromlo Road
– 2:00 pm – Freestyle Criterium – Canberra Institute of Technology, Bruce Saturday April 24
– 10:00 am – 3.3km Uphill Freestyle Event – Mt Stromlo Road
More details will be available soon on the AUS XC Website.
March 21, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Check out this great photo gallery of the action, drama, and emotion at Sunday’s Mass Start event, the final IBU World Cup of the season, in Oslo, Norway. Darya Domracheva (BLR) won the women’s 10km race – more here – while Emil Hegle Svendsen (NOR) took top honours in the men’s competition – more here.
March 10, 2011 – The 2012 Nordic World Championships proved to be one of the best championships in Nordic history. Great crowds, spectacular racing and beautiful tracks. The Nordic community expected nothing less when the event took place in the acclaimed birth place of skiing. We contacted Atomic’s Nordic Race Director, the outrageous Roman Toferer, to get his perspectives on what it is like to be a technician at the World Championships.
Congratulations, you turned in some pretty impressive results. Your boys and girls from Norway, Sweden, Germany and Finland won Gold, Silver and Bronze. Are you happy with your results?
Roman Toferer: Sure, we are happy with the results. The Atomic athletes we thought would win medals did win medals except for Hanna Falk in the Sprint. It means that selection of athletes has been well done, that we need more is clear but that is in progress.
Roman, a lot of people wonder what it is that company reps do at an event like the World Championships. The national teams have their own wax technicians and equipment coaches. What did you and your team actually do at Oslo?
RT: It is Nordic skiing. The conditions change every day. The job of our team is clearly to test new things like adjustments in wax pockets, new bases, new grindings every day. We react on change of conditions and we are in close contact with the National teams to adapt to those changes.
So, we will primarily test grinds and choice of wax. This is done first within the staff of Atomic. When we have data and decisions, we meet with the national team coaches. We discuss what is working best. Of course, the technicians from Atomic and the national teams will ski together and test what is working. But you know, the final decision is the athletes. They ski and test one more time, they choose what is working best for them.
Tell us about the facilities that the organizers provide for the ski companies for waxing and working on skis?
RT: Was done very good in Oslo. We worked in a 30-square ft room with air-conditioning, cleaning equipment already there, we brought our own measuring instruments, waxing facilities and approximately 400 pairs of skies with us.
400 pairs?! Was that really necessary?
RT: Yes, we have developed a new Hard Track Skating ski and this was our opportunity to put athletes on this ski. We also have a new classic ski with synthetic kick material. This ski was very popular with athletes.
So you brought the new Skintec waxless skis to Oslo. What were some of the reactions by coaches and athletes to this new waxless technology?
RT: They want us to provide them with these skis as soon as possible. Spring classic races are soon, very hard to wax for. But Skintec is for all conditions, not just Spring.
Did any of the wax technicians react negatively to Skintec because no more kick waxing might jeopardize their jobs?
RT: No. Much classic racing will still be on waxable skis.
It was the World Championships. Not only was it a very major event, but it takes place toward the end of the year. It must be very difficult to get athletes to try new gear at such a major event at the end of the season.
RT: No not at all, skiers always want to test when there is new things, especially now when everyone saw what skis Tord had at 50km.
It is a pretty amazing setting with the world’s best athletes on perfect tracks as well as the most knowledgeable equipment coaches. Can you take advantage of all of this to test new designs and technology?
RT: That’s the reason why I spend so long time up there as well, this is the place where a lot of new experiences get born to develop further. This is why I just arrived to Khanty (Russia for the IBU Worlds) today directly from Oslo. It must go on!!!!!!!!!!
Did you learn anything at these World Championships about the new gear that you did not already know?
RT: Yes this is a never ending process, anyway conditions were really not easy, I think everyone saw how difficult some races were. Details out from new experiences need to be worked out now after season.
What is the next event for you and your team?
RT: Like I mentioned above, I am in Khanty now for IBU Biathlon World Championships. Our Nordic service team is testing at home and then they will go to the finals in Falun, Sweden next week. Then, the whole team will again go to Scandinavia after the season, recruitment and testing goes on!
March 09, 2011 (Toronto, ON) – We’re pleased to announce the standings for the SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Oslo Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest following the final event, the Men’s 50km Mass Start held on Sunday in Oslo and won by Norway’s Petter Northug – for complete coverage of this exciting race with photos click HERE.
Following the Men’s 50km freestyle race GBx is leading overall standings with a total of 285 points. Yellowknife trails by only five points and there’s a tie for third place between Brown Chicken Brown Cow and BOOKER T at 275 points apiece. Close behind in 4th place are poiss team and peta each with 270 points.
Look for the final official standings on March 14, following the Doping De-Points rule, when we will announce the winners of the contest.
For the standings after the men’s 50km mass start click HERE.
Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest Prizes *1st Prize – Alpina package – Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles. (value $1,350) *2nd Prize – Nipika Package – 2-nights for up to 6 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,220) *3rd Prize – Fischer RCS Skate or Classic Boots (value $469) *4th Prize – One Way Diamond Storm Premio Poles (value $360) *5th Prize – Swix Digital T72 Iron (value $350) *6th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $150) *7th Prize – Rottefella Xcelerator Skate/Classic Bindings (value $130) *8th Prize – Sporthill Men’s XC Pants (value $120) *9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) *10th Prize – BuffHeadwear (value $40)
Good luck to all contestants and thanks to FIS, Oslo 2011 and all of our great sponsors including Alpina, Peltonen, Yoko, Nipika Mountain Resort, Fischer, One Way, Swix, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Rottefella, Auclair, and Buff Canada.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
March 09, 2011 – One Way is pleased with its athletes’ performances at the 2011 FIS Nordic Ski Worlds in Oslo, Norway and IBU Championships in Khanty Mansiysk, Russia, with five gold medals and even more hardware, courtesy of Martin Fourcade, Vibeke Skofterud, Kristin Stoermer-Steira, the French Nordic Combined team with Jason Lamy Chappuis, Tord Asle Gjerdalen, and many more.
After the launch of the Diamond Storm PREMIO poles, all of One Way’s athletes switched immediately to the new technology. The new generation of stiffness in this high end racing pole created a lot of excitement at the World Championships.
March 09, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Sorry for the delay but we ended up with very slow internet connections over the final few days of the Oslo competitions, and also traveling home made for more sketchy internet connections. Here are some last impressions about our final days in Oslo.
Women’s Relay – Day 9
Back to the races – on site! The end of the World Championships is approaching which means it’s time for the relays and the final “King” and “Queen” of the distance races. Over the past few days there have been some holes in the crowd as many fans have had to return to work or school but tickets are more or less sold-out for rest of the Championships and we expect some intense racing!
As mentioned before, we have observed great sportsmanship here and while skiers are certainly competitive and driven, they are also very gracious and dare I say “normal” people despite their status. As journalists here we have seen what’s been written and how it was written, as well as the athletes in action, on the trails, and at the press conferences and there is somewhat of a difference.
The headlines do not always give the true picture, though it seems that some controversy can be good for the sport since we seem to survive the headlines. It’s only natural that some characteristics of a skier are either highlighted or ignored and skiers sometimes exchange words with each other that seem unnecessary – but taken out of context these things are sometimes made into a bigger deal than the skiers themselves think they are.
Aside from watching the races and enjoying the incomparable level of energy in the stadium, after a “recovery” dinner, we ventured over to the Finnish Team’s hotel to have a celebratory piece of cake with the medal winners, their teammates, and the coaching staff – see more photos HERE.
We also caught up with Andreas Bennert from One Way:
Men’s Relay – Day 10
We thought yesterday was crazy and loud (Women’s Relay). But Wow – today was even louder. Are these Norwegian fans just getting “warmed-up”? Today’s racing was unbelievable!! (but you’re all aware of the results already, so I will not go into detail. Suffice it to say that this race also required spectators to go find recovery food and drink after the competition. Whew.
Before the race started a group of old guys walked into the stadium. They looked like they were familiar with all of the hoopla… in fact, they looked very familiar. They were none other than Oddvar Brå, Harald Gronningen, Tormod Knutsen, Gjermund Eggen, Odd Martinsen and Vladimir Smirnoff!
Those guys hold more medals than any group you could possibly find “by accident” on the race-course. This is definitely the mecca of Nordic skiing. Thomas Alsgaard was a regular commentator on NRK (Norwegian TV), Bente Skari was Chief of Competition, Yelena Välbe was seen regularly (she is coaching now), Björn Daehlie was hanging out… and this is just to name a few of the medal winners and former World Cup and Olympic skiers that were at Holmenkollen.
Here are some of the folks we sought-out/ran into today.
Finnish Member of FIS
Chief of Competition – John Aalberg
Catching up with Atomic’s Roman Toferer
Taking a look inside the Norwegian wax truck with Knut Nystad
Chatting with Marit Bjoergen’s personal wax tech
Wrap Up
The races were followed up with some Italian food with our cousin/niece. Ritva balanced out the racing excitement with a trip to a concert with her cousin (Tord Gustavsen – Norwegian jazz musician – if you like jazz, especially piano jazz, I recommend looking up this guy and/or his trio – the music takes you to another place).
The concert was held in Oslo’s Cathedral (more info HERE), which recently re-opened after some renovations. The church is beautiful, but the pews sure are hard to sit on after a day of running around Holmenkollen!
On Saturday morning, Ahvo returned to the US for the Junior Olympic action while I stayed in Oslo, but opted to stay in town and take in the excitement from another vantage point. Part of me wishes I had gone up to the race course as the sun finally came out but I opted to try something new. My flight on Sunday left early enough in the evening that I had to read up about the 50km later.
The trails will seem a bit quieter after this experience, but I think it is safe to say that both Ahvo and I have some really fond memories of this trip. I know that he has wanted to watch the Word Championships in Norway for a long time (15 or more years), and I decided that I wanted to watch the WC in Norway after watching his videos from the Lillehammer Olympics in 1994 and experiencing a little Nordic World Ski Championships in 1995 when the whole family went to the WC in Thunder Bay.
I am still trying to figure out if this want/need to go to Holmenkollen for the WC is a result of nature or nurture. I doubt that any country can stage the Nordic Worlds as well as the Norwegians can, and I have a hard time imagining that there could be a more ski-crazy nation. I also wonder who makes the Norwegian flags… they must have a pretty fat checkbook by now.
At this point I would also like to mention the hotel that we stayed at – the Hotel Guldsmeden Carlton Oslo (more info HERE). The hotel was on the smaller side and has only been open since about October. They are currently polishing off a spa in the basement and have very comfortable rooms, a tasty breakfast buffet and nice location not too far from the harbor, public transportation and Oslo center.
The staff were fantastic during our stay. I have never met a more hospitable and friendly group of hotel staff in all of my travels. Should you be traveling to Oslo in the near future, check this place out and say hi to the hotel manager Kim (who speaks impeccable English and is actually from Denmark).
For a quick look around the lobby with Kim, check out this video:
That’s it for now! We hope you all have enjoyed reading about our adventures (and secrets) and also hope that at least some of the excitement from this event has been transferred to you through our coverage here at SkiTrax. An event like this is an excellent reminder of the many positive things that can be experience and absorbed from our sport.
March 07, 2011 (Toronto, ON) – We’re pleased to present the standings for the SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Oslo Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest following the Women’s 30km Mass Start held on Saturday in Oslo and won by Norway’s Therese Johaug – you can read our complete coverage of this exciting race with photos HERE.
The top teams are very tight and anything could still happen! Look for the standings following the final event, the Men’s 50km skate, and then on March 14, following the Doping De-Points rule, we will announce the winners of the contest.
For the Standings after the women’s 30km mass start click HERE.
Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest Prizes *1st Prize – Alpina package – Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles. (value $1,350) *2nd Prize – Nipika Package – 2-nights for up to 6 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,220) *3rd Prize – Fischer RCS Skate or Classic Boots (value $469) *4th Prize – One Way Diamond Storm Premio Poles (value $360) *5th Prize – Swix Digital T72 Iron (value $350) *6th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $150) *7th Prize – Rottefella Xcelerator Skate/Classic Bindings (value $130) *8th Prize – Sporthill Men’s XC Pants (value $120) *9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) *10th Prize – BuffHeadwear (value $40)
Good luck to all contestants and thanks to FIS, Oslo 2011 and all of our great sponsors including Alpina, Peltonen, Yoko, Nipika Mountain Resort, Fischer, One Way, Swix, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Rottefella, Auclair, and Buff Canada.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
March 05, 2011 (Toronto, ON) – Here are the standings for the SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Oslo Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest following the men’s team sprint won by the Canadian duo of Devon Kershaw and Alex Harvey. We have also included a link to the standings after the women’s team sprint.
Following the men’s team sprint, Yellowknife continues to lead with 215 points, ahead of a second-place tie between three (3) teams: Buenahora, Skila, and GBx with 195 points. There is also a three-team tie for third place between poiss team, Brown Chicken Brown Cow, and BOOKER T, – all with 190 points.
For the standings after the women’s team sprint click HERE.
For the standings after the men’s team sprint click HERE.
Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest Prizes *1st Prize – Alpina package – Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles. (value $1,350) *2nd Prize – Nipika Package – 2-nights for up to 6 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,220) *3rd Prize – Fischer RCS Skate or Classic Boots (value $469) *4th Prize – One Way Diamond Storm Premio Poles (value $360) *5th Prize – Swix Digital T72 Iron (value $350) *6th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $150) *7th Prize – Rottefella Xcelerator Skate/Classic Bindings (value $130) *8th Prize – Sporthill Men’s XC Pants (value $120) *9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) *10th Prize – BuffHeadwear (value $40)
Good luck to all contestants and thanks to FIS, Oslo 2011 and all of our great sponsors including Alpina, Peltonen, Yoko, Nipika Mountain Resort, Fischer, One Way, Swix, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Rottefella, Auclair, and Buff Canada.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
March 04, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Check out these cool videos of Devon Kershaw and Alex Harvey winning Canada’s first ever gold medal at the Nordic World Championships in the men’s Team Sprint Classic. Watch the Canadian team’s reaction courtesy of George Grey and lots of great race footage.
March 04, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Last night we decided that we would take in the WC action and Oslo from a different perspective if the weather was foggy again. Well, it was foggy. We spent the morning with my cousin (Ahvo’s niece) looking at the Oslo Opera House (some fantastic architecture), Akershus Fortress, Vigeland Sculpture Park and a local ski shop (that sells about 5,000 pairs of skis per year!!) before watching the team sprint on the Jumbotron downtown. View more photos HERE.
The Oslo Opera House is relatively new building – construction completed in 2007 – and is an architectural masterpiece. The building is situated on the shore of the fjord and is home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. Click HERE for more info.
Akershus Fortress is also situated by the fjord and can be seen from the Oslo harbor. The fortress is one of the oldest structures in Norway (dating back to 1299) and includes a church, as castle and a number of museums. The fortress is still a site for official government events and military guards still patrol the area. More info HERE.
Vigeland Park (also known as Frogner Park) is Northwest-ish of downtown and is made up of both bronze and granite sculptures designed by Gustav Vigeland. The sculptures depict men, women, and children at different stages of life and is definitely a must-see if you are a tourist in Oslo. Click HERE for more info.
We could see more from the Jumbotron than if we had been in the stadium today and it was one heck of a final (actually two)! As you have probably already read, Krista Lähteenmäki overpowered the Norwegian ladies to take silver behind a solid Swedish team and Alex Harvey axed the Norwegian men in the final stretch of the race.
Needless to say, downtown got pretty quiet. The Norwegians were clearly disappointed that they missed out on gold in back-to-back home-stretch sprints. The areas around the Jumbotron emptied quickly and quietly. A single shout of “Go Canada” was all that could be heard above Ahvo and myself shouting “Yes!!!” (which were admittedly preceded by “oh nohs” when the Finnish team slipped out of the medals… but these were drowned out by Norwegian fans having cardiac problems).
We found the source of the “Go Canada” when the park emptied before the flower ceremony (which we stayed to watch). It was from three Alaskans standing in the empty plaza who happened to be watching the race close by. We are a bit bummed that we were not near the finish line up at Holmenkollen for this one, but we think it is fate. Had we been up at the stadium, things could have been different and this was meant to be. Way to go Devon Kershaw and Alex Harvey!
We did make it to the medals ceremony – got stuck in the back row, but were in the main area of the square – and got some comments from Canadians we met in the street.
March 04, 2011 – Check out this fantastic collection of Oslo 2011 photos with emphasis on men’s team sprint winners Canada’s Devon Kershaw and Alex Harvey. The Toronto Star photo gallery features lots of pics of Kershaw and Harvey, including their famous “air guitar” celebration pic. Click HERE to view the slideshow.
March 03, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – What a day for Finland (or two days). Ahvo and I cheer for everyone, but there is an innate tendency for us to cheer for Finnish skiers and American skiers just a little bit louder – and now Canadians as well, since we’re writing for a publication based in Toronto. Ahvo was born in Finland and made his career in the US whereas Ritva was born in the US, but currently makes her home in Finland.
Norwegians are great sport fans as they cheer for everyone out on the trail or coming into the finish, but an eerie silence can fall over the crowd for a spell if the Norwegians are not in the number one spot. After Matti Heikkinen’s win he thanked the crowd for their support throughout the race. The hometown crowd certainly cheered for Heikkinen, but naturally they cheer louder for their countrymen.
Throughout the World Championships we have observed excellent sportsmanship on the part of the competitors and the fans. Every day you can see fans congratulating fans from other countries – this is truly a celebration of the sport and not just championship races.
March 03, 2011 (Toronto, ON) – We are pleased to announce the standings for the SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Oslo Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest following the men’s individual 15km Classic on Mar. 1 as we catch up with the world’s fastest racers and the current action. We have also included a link to the women’s individual 10km Classic results from Feb. 28.
Following the men’s individual 15km Classic Yellowknife has pulled into the lead with 210 points, ahead of second place, Skila, with 195 points. There is now a tie for third between four (4) teams: poiss team, Brown Chicken Brown Cow, BOOKER T, and GBx – all with 190 points.
For the standings after the women’s 10km classic click HERE.
For the standings after the men’s 15km classic click HERE.
Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest Prizes *1st Prize – Alpina package – Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles. (value $1,350) *2nd Prize – Nipika Package – 2-nights for up to 6 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,220) *3rd Prize – Fischer RCS Skate or Classic Boots (value $469) *4th Prize – One Way Diamond Storm Premio Poles (value $360) *5th Prize – Swix Digital T72 Iron (value $350) *6th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $150) *7th Prize – Rottefella Xcelerator Skate/Classic Bindings (value $130) *8th Prize – Sporthill Men’s XC Pants (value $120) *9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) *10th Prize – BuffHeadwear (value $40)
Good luck to all contestants and thanks to FIS, Oslo 2011 and all of our great sponsors including Alpina, Peltonen, Yoko, Nipika Mountain Resort, Fischer, One Way, Swix, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Rottefella, Auclair, and Buff Canada.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
March 01, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – U.S. Ski Team athletes, coaches, staff and trustees gathered on Monday evening for a social reception at the US Ambassador’s residence located in a lovely, historic building in Oslo. US Ambassador Mr. Barry White and Mrs. White welcomed guests for a chance to mingle and chat about the on-going 2011 FIS World Nordic Skiing Championships underway in Oslo. Here’s is a small selection of photos from the evening – read more HERE.
February 28, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Two days ago, I raced my first 15km pursuit ever… at the World Championships! Maybe not the ideal time to experiment with pacing, but it sure was fun while it lasted. It was an interesting day with heavy fog that made it hard on the spectators and racers alike; you couldn’t see the turns on the fast downhills till you hit them! I almost fell face-first a couple of times but managed to stay upright.
The crowds were fantastic; they lined the course and although 95% were totally intoxicated, the noise and enthusiasm really gave me a boost during the race. It’s impossible to give up when people are screaming “HI-YA!” at you! (it means GO! in Norwegian)
I had the best mass start I’ve ever been in, because I was situated #42, on the right outside track. I was able to hop out of the track and double pole up the outside while on the first hill out of the stadium people were going ballistic and tripping in the tracks. I snuck around the corner and caught onto the end of the big pack to be in the top 30. I was so excited because our skis were so fast – we had the perfect mix of good kick up the steep climbs and fast glide on the downhills.
However, I’d done a really poor job of hydrating and fueling up the days prior to my race, which proved to be a painful lesson to learn the hard way. I started to hit the wall at only 6km, and could taste iron in the back of my throat the rest of the race. I shouldn’t have needed a feed in a 15km, but the coaches had three stations ready, just in case.
And you know what? I missed all three! So embarrassing. I dropped the first bottle, and the second time around, I managed to grab the bottle… and gave myself a Gatorade facewash! So now every coach in the world knows that I had the worst feed in the history of world champs. What a prestigious title! To be fair, I’ve never tried to take a feed in a big race before. But now I’ve got good incentive to practice!
At the end of the day, Marit Bjoergen took the women’s title (surprise, surprise!) but the US women had a great day – Liz led the charge in 24th, Holly came in 25th, I finished 28th and Mo wrapped up our top 45 day in 43rd! Full results are linked HERE.
The next day was the men’s 30km pursuit, and Holly and I had a great time cheering them on. We got to be part of an international cheering squad as we hiked down a steep snowy hill to get right alongside the classic part of the course. It was really cool to see all the people camping in the snowbank; some had even shoveled out benches and settled down for the afternoon!
We hiked back to the stadium in time to see Alex Harvey of Canada pull the most ballsy move I’ve ever seen in a 30km pursuit – he broke the pack with like 6km to go and went off the front on his own! Sadly, his legs cramped up with about 3km to go and the pack sucked him back in. But it was super cool to see him off the front for a lap with a chase pack of 20 guys all scared to death that a U23 was going to beat them.
The men finished thus: Northug won, with Russians in 2nd and 3rd. Kris Freeman led the US guys in 29th, Noah Hoffman came in 37, Lars Flora finished in 53rd and Tad Elliott came in 55th. Full results are linked HERE.
Then we had a bit of a transportation snafu – due to the pedestrians crowding the street and the King of Norway getting back down the hill safely, they totally shut down the roads and we had to sit on a bus for an hour and a half before getting back to the hotel. It was a long day, but still worth it to see such an exciting race.
Today is the women’s 10km classic… and I’m headed out to cheer!
February 28, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – At breakfast on Sunday morning, the sun started peaking from behind the clouds and by the time we got to the stadium, the sun was shining warm and bright (check out the interview with Peter Graves to see the sun).
As you can see from our photos though, the clouds started rolling in again and the sky was covered by the time [Petter] Northug made his final charge for the finish line. Thank goodness the jumbotron and stadium were visible today though, what a race!
The roar of the crowd when a Norwegian edged into the lead contrasted greatly with the hush of concentration, nervousness and anticipation when the skiers were out on the course and another nation’s skiers were making moves.
Northug gave us a peek at his cards each time the lead pack came into the stadium by making a quick move to the front as if to say, “Don’t worry, I’m here”, which was followed up by a cheer from the crowd. The emotions were palpable when, for example, [Alex] Harvey (CAN) took a 16-second lead during the skate leg, [Alexander] Legkov (RUS) took a spill prior to the final climb and when [Marcus] Hellner (SWE) made a charge in the final 2km and again in the stadium but could not break away.
The energy bursting from Holmenkollen when a Norwegian wins is unbelievable!
Northug’s win today was big for both him, and the crowd. He commented after the race that he had met his goal for this World Championships and that the rest of the medals he might win are just icing on the cake. No word yet on weather he will race all of the rest of the events or if he will sit out the individual start on Tuesday to “save” himself for the relay and the 50km.
World Champs and Waxing
Waxing and weather have been a challenge so far during these World Championships for skiers and wax techs alike. Saturday’s women’s pursuit race was, as some said, “Won by wax techs”. As you may have seen in yesterday’s interview with Krista Lähteenmäki, or as might be written about the Swedes in today’s race, you can’t hit it on the nose every time… even with a knowledgeable staff that has tested “everything”.
Waxing at this level takes time, effort, experience, and judgment skills. Each team is testing skis and different wax combinations throughout the day. Wax techs, coaches and skiers compare notes and work together to find their magic combination for the day, while wax companies also have technicians and testers that are reading weather reports, testing and conferring with teams. It is exhausting work, but at the end of the day, can make a difference between going home with gold or not.
The wax techs here have told us that stonegrinding immediately before a race is not a problem. While the average skier can spend hours waxing one pair of skis for an event, the wax techs here can prep a whole teams’ worth of skis in one day (or less, if they have to).
We’ve been told, for example, that some teams have all of their wet-snow skis stoneground before each use and if necessary a ski can be prepped quickly with just some base wax, fluoride graphite molybdenum mix and a little more base wax, prior to race waxing (powders/gels).
As you know, snow conditions can change in an instant, which might spell nightmare for the average skier, but wax techs are able to switch gears and change race wax in a matter of minutes, if necessary. Despite hours of testing and years of experience, tested wax doesn’t always work after the gun goes off, and there is no mathematical formula for the perfect skis.
We can let you in on a little secret about waxing at large events like this one. Each wax company has newly developed products that are not yet on the market but are in tubes and containers with hand-written codes on them that are passed discretely to team wax techs sometimes accompanied by whispers and a wink (“007” like moves).
That’s it for the secrets today because either a) one of our sources might read this and refuse to tell us/show us more, b) this website is open for the world to see – we wouldn’t want the information to fall into the wrong hands (just kidding?).
What Swedish Fans Predict
February 26, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – The Marit Bjoergen magic worked again in the women’s 15km Pursuit (7.5km CL + 7.5km FR) even on slow, new warm snow, along with yesterday’s fog, as all of Norway showed up to watch the Queen of Holmenkollen triumph once more.
In total she blazed the course in 38:08 and is the nemesis of Polish star, Justyna Kowalczyk, who was 3.5 seconds back at the ski transition, and 7.5 seconds back by the finish for the silver. Bjoergen commented that she could see from the first skate downhill that she had faster skis than her Polish shadow. Thus made this part of her tactic in the second half, initiating her attack with just under one kilometre to go on the climb before entering the stadium. Her teammate Therese Johaug had a stellar race taking the bronze at 8.8 seconds behind.
These three leaders broke away during one of Bjoergen’s attacks on the climb during the skate leg. Sweden’s top distance skier, Charlotte Kalla, chased but could not connect and finished on her own in 4th 53:9 seconds back. Italian Marianna Longa and Sweden’s Maria Rydqvist had a photo finish for 5th at 1:08:8 seconds behind the winner.
US skiers were the first North Americans with Elizabeth Stephen in at 2:54.9 minutes back for a solid 24th overall – her strong fast time in the skate of 18:23.2 put her 18th in that leg. Holly Brooks was next in 25th at 3:21.9 behind, while junior Jessie Diggins put in another a strong performance at her first major international event placing 28th at 3:25.2 back, followed by Morgan Arritola in 43rd at 5:00:9 behind.
The lone Canadian skier, Brooke Gosling was 51st and seven minutes behind. It was Brooks, Diggins and Gosling’s first World Championships – quite the baptism considering the competition at the front of the pack.
American xc head coach Chris Gover was more than pleased as the team coped with unexpected deep snow, and promising results for the future. “Conditions were different than anything we’d seen so far and from what was predicted but the wax team adjusted quickly and we had a great skis. Different teams found different kick wax solutions,” Grover told SkiTrax. “I was proud of the effort of our young skiers. A great race for Liz. Holly’s first Euro WC points. A second day in the top-30 result for Jessie.”
Veteran Stephen agreed. “It was a great day for our team for the most part, with Holly, Jessie and I all in the top 30. That’s real progress for us as a country. The race was really fun and the tracks were super fast – I had awesome skis today, both for the classic leg and the skate.
“My race had some really good parts to it, including the classic leg, which may well have been my best classic race all year. I was able to ski hard, but relaxed and hang on to the pack enough so I could be in the mix with the skate race and go out feeling strong with a goal to catch as many people as possible. I skied a pretty strong skate leg, and feel like today was a really good tune up for the rest of the week.”
Diggins continued to perform after being called up from the junior ranks following her seventh place result in the 5km skate at the Junior Worlds with as fast or faster times than many seniors. Not only was this her first senior worlds, but it was her first pursuit ever and she couldn’t overstate her enthusiasm for the race and the entire experience.
“Today was a really interesting day with all the fog…it was crazy racing because going down the hills you couldn’t see the corners until you came right up to them! But the fans were great and all the cheering really helped,” said Diggins in a post-race email to SkiTrax. “I had a great start, but did a poor job keeping hydrated and hit the wall pretty hard around 6km, and felt pretty sloppy in the skate portion of the race.
“I also tried to get a feed…twice…and every coach in the world now knows that I had the worst feed in the world! I dropped the bottle the first time around and gave myself a Gatorade face-wash the second. How embarrassing! But I’m super proud of the US girls and the coaches gave us super fast skis. It was a good day!”
For the USA’s Brooks it was a day for the record books. “Yes it was a great day for the US – three women in the top 28 – and my first WC points in Europe. The past weekend at the WCup in Drammen I had a rough start in my weakest disciplines after not having raced in over a month.
“We had great skis – thanks to our techs and my coach, Erik Flora. The first time up the big sprint hill before entering the stadium I looked up and saw bib 6 – Italy’s Arianna Follis was in front of me. That was extra motivation to ski fast! It was super fun to be skiing with the skier who took the silver medal only two days before in the sprint and I hope our momentum carries through to the guys on Sunday! Despite the fog, the crowd was fantastic.”
Arritola felt the stress of competition. “I had a rough day in the pursuit but I’m happy for my teammates who skied well. I just have to figure some things out and get ready for the 30km.”
Team leader Kikkan Randall was impressed with the US women in the 15km pursuit emailing SkiTrax her observations, “I’m super psyched and impressed to see three of our women in the top 30 today. It looked like a tough race and it’s great to see the shift in performance on our team. We used to dream of one result in the top 30 and now we got three in. I know Morgan didn’t have her best day so she could have possibly been in there too. Jessie skied an impressive race, not afraid to go up and ski with some fast girls. I am really excited for the future of this group.
“I think my fall in the sprint the other day, while it was definitely disheartening, has made us all appreciate the hard work we’ve done together as a team to prepare for these championships and we know that the most important thing is to put ourselves out there and go for it. The door has been opened on what is possible and we want more of it!”
We caught up Canadian Head Coach Justin Wadsworth for his take on the pursuit. “For sure it was a tough one out there for Brooke with the new (hard) courses here at Holmenkollen, and the huge crowds. This is a tough place to cut your teeth for your first high level racing in Europe. Brooke showed some guts out there on the skating leg today, so I look for better things to come from her as the championships continue.”
But not everyone was happy about that situation. Kowalczyk noted that on four different occasions Johaug blocked her from chasing Bjoergen. When asked whether she thought it was fair play, Kowalczyk replied, “It’s cross-country skiing.”
Johaug denied trying to block Kowalczyk and Bjoergen said she had no knowledge of it – as all had taken place behind her, but she was sure Johaug would not do that.
Instead, she said, her tactic to “…not do too much work in the classic part, but I was first in. Then I knew I had very good skis [in the skate leg] and Therese was in front; I wanted to be behind, because I knew I had better skis than Kowalczyk. I attacked and got a gap, and I knew I could go. I wanted Kowalczyk in front but Kowalczyk wanted Therese in front.”
Kowalczyk had little to say. It is difficult to ski against strong teams like the Norwegians, Swedes, Germans, Italians and Finns when the other members of the Polish team while good, were not there to work for her.
Bjoergen admitted Johaug played a part in her victory. “A big thank you to Therese who wore out Kowalczyk.”
Johaug, meanwhile, said the biggest “thank you” went to the “boys in the cabin” meaning the wax crew who waxed skis to perfection. “My goal was to reach an individual medal at these Games,” she said, “and now I have reached my goal. It was a big thing for me. The people in the track were great. At the last world championships I was 6th, so it is my best place at the world championships and the Olympics.
“I knew they [Bjoergen and Kowalczyk] would be strong in the end. I would fight to the last lap – all the way. When I was skating, I thought I could go hard all the time – I thought there was a chance. I did the best I could and it was a bronze today.”
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of Norway commented, in a slight nudge to the competition and the rivalry between Norway and Sweden, “It is very typical Norwegian to perform as well as Marit Bjoergen did today.”
February 26, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – There was not so much action on the cross-country skiing side of things on Friday. Skiers were out training and technicians and coaches were testing waxes. The weather has changed from being coldish to being wet and a bit sloppy. We didn’t bring our rubber-boots, but probably should have… check out photos from our adventures today HERE.
The fog rolled in this morning and was so thick atop Holmenkollen that you could barely see 50 meters (if that)! This did not deter the ski jumping competitions (which are best watched on TV if you want to see anything more than the skier coming out of the clouds at the bottom of the hill), but it made things interesting for jumpers and spectators alike. More than one skier stated that they could not see a thing. (Our pictures barely do justice to the visibility; it got even worse as the day wore on).
At least one cross-country skier today briefly got lost while cruising the sprint course and the 5km (that skier’s name is name is Ahvo – but he found his way back to the wax cabins though).
Due to the fog and the lack of racing action on the cross-country side of things, today was a good day for checking out some history and culture in the area. We checked out the Edvard Munch exhibit located in Oslo’s center close to the medals plaza and hit up the Holmenkollen ski museum and chapel.
Edvard Munch, a famous Norwegian artist (more info HERE) born in 1863, has his artwork represented in eight sculptures made of ice and snow by internationally recognized artists featured in the city center.
The Ski Museum at Holmenkollen (more info HERE) is said to be the oldest museum in the world that specializes in skiing history. The museum was founded in 1923 at a location not far from its present location (since the 1952 Olympics) under the large jumping hill. The museum has exhibits about Norwegian explorers like Fridtjof Nansen (more info HERE) and Roald Amundsen (more info HERE) as well as a history of skis, ski making, Norwegian skiing heroes, and the royal family’s participation in ski sports.
The Holmenkollen Chapel is one of the most popular in Norway for weddings including baptisms, funerals, concerts, regular Sunday services and church festivals are also held there. The steeple of the chapel – when there is no fog – can be seen from the center of Oslo and is said to remind Olso and its visitors “of the self-expression of humanity and the joy of sport”.
The chapel was re-dedicated in 1996 and is similar to the previous chapel that stood in the same spot but was destroyed by arson in 1992. The construction method is traditional of Norwegian stave churches (more info HERE) from the 11th and 12th centuries and includes stained-glass windows a per the chapel brochure.
Tidbits for the day:
While Northug seems satisfied yesterday in the official press-conference after the sprints and even commented the better man had won, the Norweigan papers (like Aftenposten) reported this morning that Northug still says he is a better sprinter than Marcus Hellner in man-to-man races… but isn’t that what yesterday’s race was?
Marit Bjoergen is a tiger! After struggles in previous seasons, Bjoergen started working with a sport psychologist who told her to visualize herself as a hunting tiger out on the trails. The night before the sprint races she was frightened to find a tiger in her bed. It was only a stuffed animal (likely left by her sport psychologist) which startled her and then gave her a laugh (from yesterday’s press conference).
There was an interesting choice of photos for DagensNyheter (Swedish newspaper www.dn.se) with Petter Northug, Marcus Hellner and Emil Jönsson at the medal ceremony. Northug is clearly looking at the gold medal in Hellner’s hand. We suspect this picture was chosen on purpose… Norwegians and Swedes are a bit competitive. When we boarded the train this afternoon while chatting with a race volunteer, he was only able to whisper that a Swede and won yesterday.
Ahvo commented after the opening ceremonies and first medal ceremony that it seems that Norway has lost some of its Norwegian-ness. When he attended the Olympic Games in Lillehammer in 1994, the ceremonies were filled with Norwegian music and traditions whereas the flavor of these World Championships was much more international. Most music was in English and the show had a “Las Vegas-esque” feel.
Some videos from yesterday:
Chatting with a family in Oslo city-center about the sprints
Folk dance group gathered at Holmenkollen
Chatting with a family on the trail-side before the sprints
February 25, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Check out this Fischer video interview with 2011 World Champion Marcus Hellner (SWE). A true competitor, Hellner won the men’s 1.5km sprint yesterday in Oslo and snatched two gold medals at last year’s Olympic Games.
February 25, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Greetings from Norway and our Day 2 insider report…Ahvo, coach of many successful international level Minnesota skiers and owner of FinnSisu Inc. in Saint Paul, MN, and Ritva Taipale, PhD student and club-level junior coach in Jyväskylä, Finland, are at the 2011 Nordic World Championships in Oslo, Norway – read on for more behind the scenes news from OSLO 2011… more photos HERE – Day 1 report HERE.
Some headlines from the papers today:
From Iltalehti
Timo Seppälä, the Finnish anti-doping expert states that 1 in 4 cross-country skiers at this event have used doping at some point in their career.
Sweden’s Emil Joensson is not feeling any pressure in today’s race. He just needs luck on his side and a good position in the start of the final sprint. (He was first in Drammen and is considered among the favourites today).
Matti Heikkinen has prepared for these World Championships in a different way than most athletes. His coach, Toni Roponen told Iltalehti that he has done 2-2.5km intervals at 95% heart rate max in the days leading up to the races. Some athletes have a “Mercedes diesel engine block, but Heikkinen’s body needs an extreme tune-up like a quick-firing Porsche gasoline engine”.
From yle.fi
Your dental hygiene is important for top performance! Martti Jylhä spent some of his preparation time for the Worlds in the dentist’s chair getting cavities filled. After Liberec, Jylhä found himself overly worn-out, so he went for a blood test and made an appointment with his dentist. Once the cavities were filled, his energy levels returned. He commented that not having taken care of his teeth was an “amateur” move. Your basic health, even your teeth, is important for maximum performance!!
Overheard…
Overheard on the press-bus up to Holmenkollen: Norwegian reporters are being modest. Not a single one would tell us who would win today. Upon further questioning, they admitted that they hope for some Norwegian gold… but the main thing is to have a good competition. Other Norwegian spectators that we talked to were also modest and careful not to be too exuberant about medal prospects today after memories of the Lillehammer relay and Marit Bjoergen’s set-backs a few years ago.
We also learned that: 1. Oystein Petterson is better liked in Norway for his personality and down-to-earth nature than Petter Northug
2. There is some controversy about the new Holmenkollen stadium. Some Norwegians think it is great, other think it’s ugly. Some Norwegians think that it’s too expensive and suggest that maybe plowing the side-streets in Oslo would be a better use of their krone.
3. The population of Oslo has increased by 12% during the World Championships.
4. Hot dogs are served in lefse (makes them easy to hold on to). Spectators even bring hotdogs in thermos bottles of hot water for lunch (Norwegian spectators are very well-equipped.)
5. The medals ceremony was held at the University Plaza in down-town Oslo. It felt like whole town and most of the country showed up to sing “Ja, vi elsker dette landet” (Yes, we love this country) with Bjoergen and friends.
And finally, Ahvo was going to have a night-cap, but it’s so expensive that he decided to stay up all night instead. Ritva’s going to get some sleep. Have a good night!
February 24, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Tonight I got to experience the crowds lining the most famous street in Oslo, that leads from the palace past the National Theatre. People showed up to cheer and wave flags for their favorite countries, as the athletes, accompanied by a flag-bearer and a group of school kids decked out in the country’s flags, proudly marched past.
While it’s true that I race on Thursday, and I probably shouldn’t have spent so much time on my feet the night before, it’s super important to me to stay relaxed and really soak up the experience. So I had a blast!
The palace is pretty neat; when the flag is all the way up, it mean’s the King is present. And guess what? DA KING IS IN THE HOUSE!
There were two loooong lines of kids waving flags from every country, and it took a while for us to finally get to the street!
I’m very excited for tomorrow’s sprint! Wish the USA luck!
February 23, 2011 (Toronto, ON) – Today is the final day for contestants to make selections for the biggest event on the Nordic ski calendar this winter and to be eligible to win lots of great prizes. Register for the SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Oslo Nordic Worlds 2011 contest by midnight for a chance to win the Grand Prize – an Alpina package featuring Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles valued at $1,350, along with other fabulous loot from our sponsors.
Select the top three podium positions for men and women for each of the 12 Nordic Worlds title events – and score points as you battle with other contestants from around the world for lots of great prizes. Earn bonus points for multi-podiums, overall nation medals, top Canadian and US skiers etc.
You can enter or revise your selection up until 12 midnight EST on Feb. 23. Don’t miss this chance to follow the worlds best xc skiers and test your knowledge of the sport for bragging rights and great prizes.
Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest Prizes *1st Prize – Alpina package – Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles. (value $1,350) *2nd Prize – Nipika Package – 2-nights for up to 6 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,220) *3rd Prize – Fischer RCS Skate or Classic Boots (value $469) *4th Prize – One Way Diamond Storm Premio Poles (value $360) *5th Prize – Swix Digital T72 Iron (value $350) *6th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $150) *7th Prize – Rottefella Xcelerator Skate/Classic Bindings (value $130) *8th Prize – Sporthill Men’s XC Pants (value $120) *9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) *10th Prize – BuffHeadwear (value $40)
Good luck to all contestants and thanks to FIS, Oslo 2011 and all of our great sponsors including Alpina, Peltonen, Yoko, Nipika Mountain Resort, Fischer, One Way, Swix, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Rottefella, Auclair, and Buff Canada.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
February 23, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – The excitement is expected to build to a crescendo this evening, not far from the Royal Palace in downtown Oslo, as the 2011 FIS World Nordic Championships are set to kick off. Members of the Canadian and U.S. Cross -Country ski team made their final preparations on Tuesday on the perfect ski tracks at Oslo’s famed Holmenkollen venue.
With the trees laden with snow and with light snow falling, it made for the ideal scene set for these much anticipated championships to begin.
Kikkan Randall took her final tune up on the tracks and said she was ready. “I feel great and very energized following the Drammen races and I am set to go. The sprint course is really one I like very much, it has all the right elements,” said Randall who goes into the FIS Championships poised and confident following her second World Cup win this season in Drammen.
U.S. Head Coach Chris Grover also said his charges are ready, “We are all healthy and everyone is happy and ready”.
While we tested announcing systems today for the qualifying events, the top ten of each race of men and women will be able to ski in these championships. Among them was Dartmouth’s former star, Ben Koons, who is skiing for New Zealand here, along with brother Nils. Well-known Kenyan skier Philip Boit also took part, who is now coached by the legendary Norwegian champion Bjorn Daehlie, who came our booth today for a chat. There were big crowds on hand for these races today, as there was no charge to attend.
At mid-day SkiTrax attended a Fischer Press Event and the room was full of among the best-known Fischer athletes in the sport also among the favorites here in Oslo – here are some notes from the press Conference…
Petra Majdic started things off on a lighthearted note with a line about her fall at Whistler. “The organizers have told me all the “holes” on the course are all protected. In some ways it is still in my mind. But I am very happy with my win in Oberstdorf with my first victory. I am happy to be here in Oslo, I will do my best.”
She made her final preparations in Doblach for three weeks at high-altitude it was a little risky. “I was not fresh in Drammen, but I feel better now here. I like the tracks in Oslo because they are not the easiest and will give everyone a very fair fight. Some of the girls are more aggressive than I am; the three uphills aren’t too steep (on the sprint course). So the course should be good for me.”
Sweden’s Charlotte Kalla coming off a second place last weekend in the sprints told members of the press today, “I will start in every race except the team sprint, and my favourite race will be the last one… the 30km in skating.
“I also look forward to the relay. The World Championships are something I have looked forward to for a long time. Our team has had a great summer and fall, and there’s a lot of strong young girls coming up and this helps me to improve as well.”
Yet, current world cup points leader Poland’s Justyna Kowalczyk will also figure in the mix, as will Arianna Follis of Italy. The Norwegians have a strong women’s squad and relative newcomer Maiken Caspersen Falla is primed and ready for action.
Among the women’s elite count Norway’s ski queen Marit Bjorgen as a huge favourite and likely to take several medals at these events.
And it goes without saying that Norway’s Petter Northug will be strong in all events, as will Swiss skier Dario Cologna along with Swedes Marcus Hellner and Emil Joensson. The Russians looked good today in practice as well.
Then it was time for Hellner. “We have the same great spirit like the women’s team in Sweden. I will compete Wednesday – I have been waiting for this championships to start and I am like a child before Christmas,” he said.
Lucas Bauer (CZE) said he was happy to be in Oslo adding, “it is much more easy for me to compete here than under the eye of the press. I like tough tracks, so it should be good for me here.” Bauer is a powerful, tough skier who seems to be always near the top for the Czech Republic.
Nordic Combined athlete Felix Gottwald of Austria spoke of the new hills in Oslo. “I didn’t jump so well today in training and that’s okay – but I do want to jump well on Saturday. ”
For the record, several USST combiners had a fine day of jump training with Todd Lodwick having one of the longest jumps of the day with a ride at 105.0 meters. Bill Demong and Bryan Fletcher all jumped beyond 100 meters in training as well.
Other combined picks must go to the highly regarded French skier, Jason Lamy Chappuis, born in Montana. Also watch for the pair of Norwegians Mikko Kokslien and Magnus Moan.
In ski jumping both Simon Amman of Switzerland and Andreas Kofler of Austria took part in the press function and appeared up beat and ready. They will face the likes of Tom Hilde of Norway and other top Austrians.
Team USA appears strong with a big women’s team here led by the current world champion Lindsey Van from Park City. But the local crowds will be behind another great skiing pioneer, Anette Sagen, who took the bronze medal at the last championships in Liberec.
It looks to many that both the US and Canadian squads are heading into Oslo with strong skiers, and we expect to see some improved performances over the Liberec Worlds.
Record crowds are expected to attend these championships, while many rabid fans have already been camping out in the nearby forests near the racing trails to cheering for their favourites.
Yes, it’s all good – xc skiing here is so much more than a sport, but truly “a way of life”.
February 23, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – Anticipation is mounting as the FIS XC Worlds draw nearer. Today saw qualifications in the individual classic 10km men’s and 5km women’s events with the top 10 skiers advancing. The story of the day was Kiwi Benjamin Koons’ (NZL) top-spot qualification in the men’s race.
Koons became New Zealand’s first ever male cross country skier to compete at a Winter Olympics in Vancouver in 2010. He didn’t start skiing until moving to Maine, USA when he was 14 years old and became an accomplished skier for Darmouth qualifying for for the NCAA’s his first year skiing for Dartmouth when he was 19.
Callum Smith (GBR) finished second in the qualifier, followed by Sergey Mikayelyan (ARM) in third. Niviaq Berthelsen (DAN) won the women’s round, followed by Nina Broznic (CRO) in second and Ingrida Ardisauskaite (LTU) in third.
February 22, 2011 (Oslo, Norway) – With light snow falling and the downtown area festooned with banners, flags and conviviality, the 2011 FIS World Nordic Championships are slated to begin Wednesday with qualifying rounds and gala opening ceremonies in downtown Oslo.
Light snow and -10 (C) temperatures greeted this journalist upon arrival in Oslo. The city is alive and you could feel it. For us Nordic fans, a return to this fabled venue is like coming home. The locals are very happy to welcome the world. I have long noticed that while the Norwegians like winning, they are very generous with their cheers for everyone.
I will be doing some PA announcing with friends Kjell Erik Kristiansen and Jens Aas in the stadium and I must say the mood is electric. As I look out from our broadcast booth I have a bird’s eye view of the stadium and the massive new ski jump at Holmenkollen. Many of the athletes are now out on the track here at Holmenkollen training and conditions are excellent. Many teams were wax testing for glide in the stadium.
NRK will be doing the world TV feed and I just looked at their camera positions and they will have 55 cameras out of the course, assuring that rights holders see nearly every meter of the course. Kristiansen, long time Olympic voice, called the course “very hard.”
I talked with Alex [Harvey] and Devon [Kershaw] today and they said the hills are “very tough”. So expect some great, and epic racing, along with superb Nordic combined and ski jumping on the new hill that is breathtakingly beautiful.
This is the first time I’ve seen the new ski jumping facility and while it is ultra-modern, it has sweepingly soft and elegant lines, or as one observer put it today “imposing without being pretentious” – I liked that.
Following the races in Drammen, the North Americans have arrived with very strong teams and expectations are high. SkiTrax hopes to talk with the athletes on Wednesday, as Fischer will host a big press conference at 1:30pm local time.
Wednesday will really start things off and the locals think there will be snow and cold temperatures in the coming days.
That’s it for now – look for more from SkiTrax more tomorrow. By every standard it feels like we are on the brink of truly magical championships.
February 21, 2011 (Drammen, Norway) – Sitting in the ice bath willing my sore/tired body to recover I picked an old Rolling Stones diddy to keep me company and keep my mind off the 10 degree water temp. Mick kept belting out “You can’t always get what you want…” time after time during that particular 7+minute rock-saga while my muscles contracted in the sweet feeling of “recovery.”
All the while I couldn’t help but agree with those rocking Brits – decades later that refrain continues to ring true (although I am sure they didn’t pen those lyrics with Nordic skiing in mind). It has been five long weeks without competition after a banner 2011 Tour de Ski campaign and sadly with Drammen now in the books – things did not go the way I had envisioned them going prior to this weekend’s World Champ tune-ups.
Day 1: 15km Individual Start Classic
I was optimistic of my chances heading into the competition having had some solid intensity sessions the week leading in – which was a surprise since last weekend I had to forgo racing a Norwegian Cup race (which I was looking forward to!) in Beitostolen due to a flu bug I must have caught on my journey over the Atlantic.
Things felt on track and I psyched upon inspecting the course. It was a tough course, with long rolling climbs that I felt suited my racing style and any time I get to race classic races I’m usually pretty fired up.
In addition to that, racing in Norway is always an amazing experience. Skiing was invented here after all. Cross-country skiing is a big deal here and over 15,000 fans braved the cold to come cheer us on. It’s their #1 winter sport – and racing around the 5km course I was shocked at how many people new my name?!
Early on the race turned into a real fight. Even in the first few kilometers I was struggling to find any sort of rhythm – usually a given for me in classical races. After a lap (5km) I was outside of the top 30 on the splits and struggling. Hard. The climbs felt like they were going on forever and the body was hurting bad.
I fought hard, staying with the technique. I dug in, kept positive and kept fighting – all the while trying in vain to find that elusive race pace and rhythm.
15km later, it never did come. I crossed the line a disappointing 26th place, over 1:41 down on the tall, talented Swede, Daniel Rickarsson who shattered the field by a blistering 30 seconds. I expected more on the results board – but damn if I didn’t fight hard. I was completely bagged at the line taking solace in the fact that I gave it my best effort.
After not racing in so long, the main objective was obtained – feeling that hurt and racing with a bib on again. The reality is no matter how many interval sessions you do, or time trials – real competition can’t be faked and can only come through real racing – with a bib on, and the xc community watching.
Day 2: 1.6km Skate Sprint
This morning I was really sore/tired from the 15km classic but super excited to get another crack at it in another event that I truly love, the skate sprint.
The day started poorly. Warming up my legs felt like maple – hard and heavy. I stuck to the plan and did a good, hard warm up in hopes of shaking the body awake.
Bad feelings aside (you can never trust your warm up – I’ve had some of the best races of my life after garbage warm ups), I knew the course was well suited for me – quite flat, with some good corners to accelerate out of. I kept telling myself that I’d feel better when the race is happening.
After repeating that mantra all morning – in the qualifier I actually did feel better than in the warm up. I was skiing “big” and felt as though I was gliding well – but crossing the line and hearing the damage, I was instantly bummed. Turns out I was awful.
Talking with Justin post-race, he said that I “looked good, but didn’t look like I had the gear to attack the course really…” and that “perhaps I was skiing too smooth” That could explain why I felt better – but ended up 48th.
While I stunk – it was an amazing day for the “Quebec crew”- Alex and Lenny. Alex snagged his first-ever skate sprint podium – finishing an amazing 2nd place to Joensson and out sprinting Northug – which was so inspiring to see. He was on fire! Lenny – all 6’6 of him – had a major breakthrough at the right moment – 4 days out from Worlds – to crack the top ten with a gutsy 9th place, after qualifying a stunning 4th. He is such a talent and will be a stable on top of the sprint leader board in the years to come for sure.
While there’s nothing I loathe more than watching sprint rounds on TV after not qualifying and I was really disappointed with today’s sprint – I was straight up pumped for the crew. For me, I’ll try to keep telling myself life goes on. It’s just racing. I wanted to have a personal best today when I woke up – and it didn’t happen.
Every time I slip a bib over my shoulders I hope for a personal best – and it rarely happens. There are always other chances and luckily my next one is coming up quickly. I hope to make a quick turn around and be ready to go on Thursday for the maiden race of this year’s World Champs.
I’m confident in the training Justin laid out, and I know that it will come around at some point (I just hope sooner rather than later!). All I can do is continue to try my best – which I did this weekend. Sometimes it goes – like it did during the Tour – other times racing tests you – like it did in Drammen. That’s the game.
Maybe The Stones were right all along. “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find – you get what you need.”
I obviously needed to blow out the carbon, put a bib on and race my guts out. I did that. It wasn’t what I wanted – but hell if I didn’t need it.
World Championships start Thursday. No matter what, I’ll be busy during the 10 days doing what I always do – getting after it and gunning for personal bests.
Word up to our staff today – the skis (as those that watched the races witnessed) were boss! We have the best staff ever!
February 21, 2011 (Drammen, Norway) – I get it now…why people work so hard, train for so many years, push themselves right to the edge in races. It’s just so exciting to be a part of the World Cup! When thousands of people are screaming, waving flags, cheering, singing, and even camping on the side of the race trail, it’s impossible not to get psyched up and want to do your very best.
Today, I got to experience the excitement and energy of the World Cup for the first time – in Drammen, Norway, of all places! It was a beautiful, sunny day and not too cold; pretty much ideal, in fact. I was very excited and more than a little nervous. My stomach was in such a tight knot I’m surprised I was able to breathe at all. The sprint course was fast and short, but I loved it and soaked up the noise of the crowd for my entire race – all 2:26.35 seconds of it! I ended up finishing 46th, Sadie finished 42nd, Holly finished 57th… and Kikkan?
KIKKAN WON THE WORLD CUP!!!
She qualified in 6th and went on to impress the world as she skied smoothly with a blistering finishing kick that propelled her right past the other girls. Which other girls? Only a bunch of Olympians and Norwegian favorites. And yes, Kikkan kicked their ass. Alex Harvey from Canada got the silver in the men’s sprint, and it was awesome to watch since he also had a good finishing stretch that made the race very exciting.
It was simply amazing to be out on the side of the trail, watching it live (and on the huge screen behind us when the girls went over the hill). Being at a World Cup is such an incredible experience – the noise, the signs and flags, the people running around half naked, the live band…. I could go on for a long time.
There was a snowmobile that kept pace with the racers and filmed it for Eurosport, and the part of the US team that wasn’t racing watched the TV at the hotel. And they provided excellent coverage! That’s something I love about Europe. They follow Nordic skiing more religiously than deranged football fans at the Superbowl back home.
Another cool thing going on in Drammen this weekend was the fact that the World Cup races were on the ski trails for the first time. Usually, the sprints are held in the city around this sweet church, and they’d move the distance races to the venue in Oslo. But this year is the big 200th anniversary celebration for the city of Drammen, and the World Cup races were part of the celebration – which might help explain the 15,000 fans that showed up this weekend.
After the race we packed our things for the short 40-minute drive to Oslo, where we’re staying at a Radisson Blu hotel for the World Championships. I’m really excited to be back in Oslo and tomorrow I will get to train on the Holmenkollen venue for the first time. I will post pictures as soon as I can!
February 16, 2011 (Toronto, ON) – The SkiTrax FIS Fantasy Oslo Nordic Worlds 2011 contest is now open for contestants to make selections for the biggest event on the Nordic ski calendar this winter. Register and enter the contest to be eligible to win lots of great prizes including the Grand Prize – an Alpina package featuring Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles valued at $1,350.
Select the top three podium positions for men and women for each of the 12 Nordic Worlds title events – and score points as you battle with other contestants from around the world for lots of great prizes. Earn bonus points for multi-podiums, overall nation medals, top Canadian and US skiers etc.
You can enter or revise your selection up until 12 midnight EST on Feb. 23. Don’t miss this chance to follow the worlds best xc skiers and test your knowledge of the sport for bragging rights and great prizes.
Nordic Worlds 2011 Contest Prizes *1st Prize – Alpina package – Peltonen Infra or Supra skis, Alpina ESK Boots, Rottefella Xcelerator Bindings, and Yoko 81100 Carbon Poles. (value $1,350) *2nd Prize – Nipika Package – 2-nights for up to 6 people in luxurious cabin, including Trail Fees (value up to $1,220) *3rd Prize – Fischer RCS Skate or Classic Boots (value $469) *4th Prize – One Way Diamond Storm Premio Poles (value $360) *5th Prize – Swix Digital T72 Iron (value $350) *6th Prize – Fresh Air Experience or High Peaks Cyclery Gift Certificate (value $150) *7th Prize – Rottefella Xcelerator Skate/Classic Bindings (value $130) *8th Prize – Sporthill Men’s XC Pants (value $120) *9th Prize – Auclair Micro Mountain Olympic Gloves + Earbags (value $65) *10th Prize – BuffHeadwear (value $40)
Good luck to all contestants and thanks to FIS, Oslo 2011 and all of our great sponsors including Alpina, Peltonen, Yoko, Nipika Mountain Resort, Fischer, One Way, Swix, Fresh Air Experience, High Peaks Cyclery, Rottefella, Auclair, and Buff Canada.
SkiTrax is North America’s leading Nordic skiing publication and the official magazine of the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) and Cross Country Canada (CCC).
February 14, 2011 (Beitostølen, Norway) – SkiTrax caught up with US XC Head Coach Chris Grover to get his thoughts on the stellar US weekend in Beitostølen, Norway where Jessie Diggins topped the Junior field in the women’s 10km classic and overall was third behind 2nd-placed Morgan Arritola with Liz Stephen in fourth. Tad Elliott finished 11th in the men’s 15km classic race – read more HERE.
“We are feeling very good about our weekend here in Beito,” said Grover. “We had eight top-5 finishes over the three days, despite not having some of our WM crew here [Lars, Kris, Kikkan, Holly, and Noah]. Everyone from our WM team that was here had at least one good race. There were almost 900 athletes racing on the weekend.
“Although temperatures are quite cold all over Norway, we have managed to have good training. There is lots of snow and lots of skiing here. Our living and food situations have been optimal. The Team is healthy and we are prepared to be successful in Drammen and in Oslo.”
February 14, 2011 – The National Cross-Country Ski Education Foundation has partnered with the US Ski Team to fully fund all U. S. Cross Country athletes who represent the U.S. at the 2011 World Nordic Ski Championships.
Dave Knoop, NCCSEF director, states “The World Championships are the premier Nordic competition outside of the Olympics. We wanted to make sure each athlete who qualifies for the Championships could focus on their preparation for the games and not worry about covering the cost for this trip.”
“We will be going to Norway with a group of athletes who have all earned this honor with strong performances this season,” said Nordic Program Director John Farra. “And we are pleased that are at the championships as one united team all will be equally funded and supported. It’s a special honor for each of these athletes to be able to compete in Norway.”
NCCSEF Ski Fundraising Challenge
The NCCSEF challenges the ski community at large to help fund these athletes. Make your tax deductible contribution to NCCSEF designating World Championships and we will ensure that your contribution goes to offsetting trip expenses for all athletes. To contribute and learn about NCCSEF visit www.nccsef.org
2011 World Nordic Ski Championships U. S. Cross Country Ski Team Men – Tad Elliott – Central Cross Country
– Lars Flora – Alaska Pacific University
– Kris Freeman – Andover Outing Club
– Simi Hamilton – Sun Valley Ski Ed Foundation
– Noah Hoffman – Aspen Valley Ski Club
– Torin Koos – Methow Olympic Development
– Andy Newell – Stratton Mountain School
Women
– Morgan Arritola – Sun Valley Ski Ed Foundation
– Holly Brooks – Alaska Pacific University
– Sadie Bjornsen -Alaska Pacific University
– Jessie Diggins- Central Cross Country
– Kikkan Randall – Alaska Pacific University
– Ida Sargent – Craftsbury Green Racing Project
– Liz Stephen- Burke Mountain Academy
2011 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships Cross Country Schedule – Oslo, Norway – Feb. 24 – Freestyle sprint
– Feb. 26 – W’s 15k Pursuit
– Feb 27 – M 30k Pursuit
– Feb. 28- W 10k Classic
– Mar. 1 – M 15k Classic
– Mar. 2 – Team classic sprint
– Mar. 3 – W Relay
– Mar. 4 – M Relay
– Mar. 5 – W 30k Freestyle
– Mar. 6 – M 50k Freestyle
February 12, 2011 (Beitostølen, Norway) – American Sadie Bjornsen from Alaska was only 4.7s off the podium claiming 4th in the women’s 5km classic today in Beitostølen as Norwegian Astrid Uhrenholdt Jacobsen skied for the win in 15:02. Morgan Arritola (USA) was 8th another 11s behind Bjornsen while Canada’s Chandra Crawford, who just arrived in Norway, claimed an impressive 12th as she continues to show gains in her classic skiing.
“Today was super cold out there in the morning – so they postponed the start for 30 mins. There were about 890 starters, so they sent us off in 15 second intervals, which made things more exciting,” said Bjornsen in a post-race email to SkiTrax. “Astrid Jacobsen, who I knew would be the potential winner stated 45 seconds behind me – so it was my goal to stay ahead of her… and if she passed me, I would stick on her like glue. I was able to hold her off though, which was nice.”
Liz Stephen (USA) finished in 17th, Ida Sargent (USA) was 20th, and Canada’s Brooke Gosling placed 37th. For Crawford it was a good result as part of her final prep before Oslo.
“I’ve been in Norway for less than 48 hours but it felt good to get the bib on and go for it,” Crawford told SkiTax by email. “Today’s race was an opportunity Justin [Wadsworth – head coach] organized for athletes who felt a need to race to get ready for Drammen World Cup and World Champs so Brooke Gosling, Ivan Babikov, Lenny Valjas and I cruised over here from Lillehammer where the team is training to do the race.
“I’m impressed with Astrid Jacobsen who is a great person and skier and just met Sadie [Bjornsen] today but am impressed with her speed. Feels good to be back in Scandinavia where the love of skiing and thousands of kilometers of groomed trails are my kind of paradise.”
In the Junior women’s race the USA’s Jessie Diggins placed 5th at 29.5s behind winner Norway’s Ragnhild Hana with a time of 15:21.8. Diggins time of 15:51.3 put her in 15th overall when considering all categories and times merged.
Bjornsen said she hasn’t skied a 5km in a while but felt good out there knowing she had to ski hard the whole way.
“The course was rolling at the beginning and then it had a really long climb that went into a gradual climb on the top at about 3km… so you had to pretty much charge the entire time. A 5km classic is a good race for me, so I was determined to ski the course really hard.
“It was nice to finish knowing I can ski right in there with some of these top Norwegians. I haven’t seen the results, but I do know that Jacobson won and I was within like 35 seconds of her or something. Skis were good, and the rest of the US girls skid strong races as well – so it was good fun,” she commented.
February 02, 2011 – Double Congratulations to FIS World Champion Alex Harvey! The first congrats is for the win and the 2nd is for saying he was going to Otepaa to win and then making it stick by winning – not always the way it happens when you think of all the variables and there is only one first place. First off he was at an altitude camp in Italy and putting in big hours, hasn’t raced in a while, and altitude is not a place you’re working on speed. I was also impressed on how much he knew about Belov and his inability as a sprinter, and that with the race ending with them together that he would, or could, take Belov in the sprint – which he did. A super effort by the World Champion on all fronts.
Another thing about the WJrs and U-23s is if your placing in the top 15 and you continue to progress in your growth as a skier – training hours, good program, coaching, international racing – you will more than likely be a top-30 skier on the World Cup in the future. People like Jessie Diggins, Noah Hoffman, Len Valjas, Jesse Cockney, Michael Sompii, Sadie Bjornsen, Kevin Sandau, Emily Nishikawa and Alysson Marshall are skiers showing these kinds of abilities and direction.
Across the board the young women (WJs) in both countries have a lot of work to do – their results could be better when you realize how many of them have been skiing for many years in formal programs with professional coaches.
One more thing about the World Jrs, is that if you’re blogging about your trip, make sure you do a good in depth job of talking about your feelings thoughts and what experiences you had. All this has a huge impact on your skiing peers and younger skiers and can accelerate their growth so they know what to expect. I know you have to do it once – go over THERE to get the stardust out of your eyes – but look at all of the guys we have at the senior level that are doing it. Kikkan Randall is the best at blogging – hands down.
Remember, at the FIS Worlds in Oslo, it is only four skiers per nation per event. So, in actuality the Worlds are easier then the WCup, except it’s the Worlds, and you’re in Norway, and every course will be totally lined with thousands of spectators. The crowds will be four times the size of the those in Vancouver if not more. A 100,000 people for some events is not out of the question – believe me. It’s one hell of a big experience.
The Craftsbury Marathon, has to be a must-do in your racing career, just for the sheer joy of every year being on one of the best and most fun XC courses in NA. The grooming is always superb and this is one fair course with all of its ups and downs. A seamless experience from entry to the final awards ceremony. I encourage you to get it on your bucket list.
BNS (Boulder Nordic Sport) in case you didn’t know, had a guide they put in the race packet at Craftsbury that you received when picking up your bib. I didn’t look at it until I got home and as I picked it up I was wondering what they were pitching as it’s 50 pages thick. Well here is how I assess it after taking the time to do a page by page – read this and you will have the information and education to help you move up in your age class. These guys at BNS have done their homework and are giving you the benefit of all this knowledge. Yes, they are selling – but in a good way – as they give you the knowledge to make the right choice for yourself if you do the reading. I was impressed! So, look for it, as they’re stuffing it at about 10-12 different marathons this winter.
One other thing about the World Champ, Alex made a quote, and the way he phrased it he insinuated that he wanted to get a World Championship title before going to Oslo – but it’s not out of the question to be thinking of another one in Oslo. I always felt, if you were afraid to talk about it, your chances of making it happen were just that much more unlikely. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
Canada’s Men’s World Championships Team, is sure looking way stronger then last year’s Olympic Team that was so successful in Vancouver last winter. Much more experience, the addition of Valjas in sprinting, Phil Widmer’s return after missing the Olympics because of a shoulder injury, Kershaw has become a much better tactical skier, and they all seem to have gained international confidence from what they have done in the early winter. If George Grey is back to last year’s form, that is a real bonus. It’ll be fun figuring out who gets to ski which events – but there should be good coverage in the full schedule. Let’s get it on!!
Hey, this looks like it is going to be cool! Click HERE and give it a try.
My missing skiers for this winter, Sophie Caldwell and Fred Touchette, both are noticeably missing in a lot of the results – I hope both are well and still racing!
January 25, 2011 (Park City, Utah) – Olympic medalists and World Champions Johnny Spillane (Steamboat Springs, CO), Billy Demong (Vermontville, NY) and Todd Lodwick (Steamboat Springs, CO) will lead the decorated U.S. Nordic Combined World Championship Team to Holmenkollen in Oslo, Norway for the Jan. 26 – Mar. 4 Championships. The Team, whose members have achieved four World Championship titles plus one team and three individual Olympic medals, was announced Monday after athletes qualified through World Cup and Continental Cup competition.
Joining the three medalists on the Team are World Championship newcomers including Olympian Taylor Fletcher, (Steamboat Springs, CO), Bryan Fletcher (Steamboat Springs, CO) and Nick Hendrickson (Park City, UT).
“The Team is going to be a mix of veterans and newcomers,” said Head Coach Dave Jarrett. “We are looking forward to Oslo with the nordic atmosphere, crowds and the chance to perform on a big stage. We will prepare the best we know how and do everything we can to win medals.”
The U.S. athletes have treated the World Cup season as a buildup towards the World Championships with each of the three medalists competing on reduced schedules. Lodwick has the best U.S. result with a fourth in Austria earlier this month. Spillane, who suffered a knee injury last summer, made his comeback just a week ago. Demong took a month off in anticipation of the birth of his baby boy. Both Demong and Spillane have had strong cross country performances in their returns and will be drawing a big focus on jump training heading into the Championships.
In 2009, Lodwick and Demong racked in the World Championship titles, with Demong clinching the large hill and Lodwick topping the Gundersen and mass start normal hill events. After an historic 2010 the USA crew is ready to sport the new Bjorn Daehlie black uniforms in Oslo as they head to the heart of nordic skiing. In Vancouver, 2003 World Champion Spillane earned three silver medals, Demong took home a gold and silver and Lodwick led the USA to silver in the team event.
Adding to the success and depth of the 2011 Team are the Fletcher brothers and Hendrickson. Both Fletchers are heading into World Champs strong posting top 30 results on the World Cup stage. Hendrickson is coming in with momentum as well after having successful races on the Continental Cup tour.
“Bryan Fletcher has had the best season of anyone on the Team this year,” said Jarrett. “We are looking forward to seeing his progression continue in Oslo and Taylor Fletcher is coming on strong.”
The powerhouse six-man team will begin its four World Championship events Saturday, Feb. 26 with the normal hill competition. The 2011 schedule was changed from 2009 when the mass start event (won by Lodwick) was added to the program. It has since been eliminated with a second team event being added, with one each on the normal and large hills.
The Team will be training on the Olympic venues in Utah over the next three weeks before heading to a pre-Worlds camp in the Olympic village of Lillehammer, Norway.
2011 World Nordic Combined Ski Championship Team
– Billy Demong, Vermontville, NY (Park City Nordic Ski Club)
– Bryan Fletcher, Steamboat Springs, CO (Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club)
– Taylor Fletcher, Steamboat Springs, CO (Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club)
– Nick Hendrickson, Park City, UT (Park City Nordic Ski Club)
– Todd Lodwick, Steamboat Springs, CO (Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club)
– Johnny Spillane, Steamboat Springs, CO (Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club)
2011 World Nordic Combined Ski Championships Schedule – Oslo, Norway
– Sat., Feb. 26 – Normal hill
– Mon., Feb. 28 – Normal hill team event
– Wed., Mar. 2 – Large hill
– Fri., Mar. 4 – Large hill team event
December 17, 2010 (Rossland, BC) – When it comes to do-or-die performances, you can’t get much more clutch than Stef Kuhn’s Tech Sprint win in Rossland today. The Canadian National Ski Team (NST) veteran only just returned from racing in Europe on Monday, having been forced home by necessity. Today’s 1.6km freestyle sprint in Rossland, BC was the last qualifier for a sprinter’s spot on the Canadian Nordic World Championship team.
“Whoever wins here will go, and that’s about it,” said Cross Country Canada’s James Cunningham, “the rest of the team is pretty much full.”
On a very technical course, Kuhn took the win in a hard-fought sprint to the line over teammate Drew Goldsack after the two Canucks gapped the field just before the last corner. Fellow NST skier George Grey finished 3rd, with Lars Flora (USA), Phil Widmer (CAN) and Mike Sinnott (USA) rounding out the top six.
On the women’s side, the competition was just as stiff; so stiff in fact that Canada’s Perianne Jones and American Holly Brooks (APU) tied for 2nd just meters behind US winner and Brooks’ teammate, Sadie Bjornsen. The women’s final saw all top six qualifiers from this morning battling for podium positions. Jessica Diggins (USA) finished 4th, Heidi Widmer 5th and Andrea Dupont was 6th. Having so many top skiers in the final is something that winner Bjornsen said made for a good, clean race.
Tied for second makes Ottawa’s Jones the top Canadian, which also secures her a spot at the World Championships. She said today’s result is a huge weight off her shoulders.
“It’s a big time relief,” said Jones. “I was pretty nervous this morning and right up ’till the final.”
Despite her dominance on the domestic sprint circuit this year, today was no cakewalk for Jones. In her final heat she battled with 3rd fastest qualifier Heidi Widmer (AWCA) and 6th fastest qualifier, Andrea Dupont, and both were contenders to challenge for he World Champs position.
“I was very concerned about them, especially because it’s so hard to pass on that course. I wanted to get out front, so I basically went as fast as I could off the start. Most importantly I wanted to be safe on the corners.” Indeed, being taken out by an aggressive competitor would have been disastrous, especially considering the Americans have no qualification spots on the line this weekend.
With her big race out of the way, Jones said she’s excited about the rest of the mini-tour. She said she likes the idea, and that “in Canada, it’s good for people who usually just race sprints to get some other races.”
Women’s full results HERE.
Men’s full results HERE.
October 26, 2011 – Elite Italian cross-country ski racer Magda Genuin, 32, recently announced on her personal website her intention to retire from World Cup racing. In the post, Genuin wrote that she returned early from a training camp in Val Senales after making her decision after a successful 11-year career, which included four World Cup individual podiums and a fifth-place finish at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
![Women’s mass start action. [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Maekaeraeinen200311cm409.2.jpg)
![Tarjei Boe (NOR) on the attack. [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Boe-200311cm231.2.jpg)
![Emil Hegle Svendsen (NOR) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Svendsen-200311cm235.31.jpg)
![Sara Studebaker (USA) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Studebaker170311cm149.31.jpg)
![Magdalena Neuner (GER) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Neuner180311cm011.2.jpg)
![Andrei Makoveev (RUS) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Ustyugov-200311cm229.3.jpg)
![Svetlana Sleptsova (RUS) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Sleptsova200311cm396.2.jpg)
![Kaisa Maekaeraeinen (FIN) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Maekaeraeinen200311cm023.2.jpg)
![Kaisa Maekaeraeinen (FIN) in the lead. [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Maekaeraeinen200311cm002.2.jpg)
![Helena Ekholm (SWE) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Ekholm180311cm018.2.jpg)
![Sara Studebaker (USA) [P] USBA](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/sara.21.jpg)
![Darya Domracheva (BLR) thanks the crowd. [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Domracheva200311cm011.2.jpg)
![Evgeniya Sedova (RUS) and Anna Bogaly-Titovets (RUS). [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Bogaly-Titovets-200311cm401.2.jpg)
![Haley Johnson (USA) [P] USBA](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/haley.21.jpg)
![Darya Domracheva (BLR) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Domracheva200311cm033.2.jpg)
![Anna Bogaly-Titovets (RUS) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Bogaly200311cm007.2.jpg)
![Tarjei Boe (NOR) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Boe200311cm238.2.jpg)
![Tarjei Boe (NOR) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Boe200311cm035.2.jpg)
![Tarjei Boe (NOR) and Emil Hegle Svendsen (NOR) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Boe-Svendsen-200311cm245.2.jpg)
![Emil Hegle Svendsen (NOR) [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Bjorndalen-200311cm239.2.jpg)
![Tora Berger (NOR) in the lead. [P] Nordic Focus](https://skitrax.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Berger-200311cm004.2.jpg)
