February 07, 2014 (Krasnaya Polyana, Russia) – The women’s 7.5km CL + 7.5km FR skiathlon kicks off the Sochi 2014 Olympic cross-country program on Saturday, February 8 at the Laura Cross Country venue. While Marit Bjoergen (NOR) is the favourite for gold the USA’s Liz Stephen is the front runner for the Americans followed by Jessie Diggins, Holly Brooks and Sadie Bjornsen.

Liz Stephen © Nordic Focus

Stephen was 8th in the Skiathlon in Sochi last year and the Vermont skier has upped her Classic game as has Diggins. Meanwhile Bjornsen is a wild card as she scored two early top-10 Classic World Cup results this season, but has been ill and only got back to racing in Toblach, Italy. Brooks is capable of striking as well and tomorrow could be her day for a top result.

Marit Bjoergen (NOR) © Nordic Focus

The Canadian team consists of Amanda Ammar, Brittany Webster and Emily Nishikawa representing the next potential wave of women distance skiers for the Maple Leaf team. While not contenders the experience gained will pay dividends down the road.

Emily Nishikawa (CAN) © Rob Whitney

If Bjoergen, 33, wins she’ll be the oldest individual female Olympic Winter Games gold medallist in the sport according to FIS. The Norwegian star has won the last three Skiathlons held at Olympic Winter Games and World Championships. Bjoergen will be challenged by Classic specialist Justyna Kowalcyzk (Poland) who is suffering from some ankle issues, fellow Norwegian star Therese Johaug, and Sweden’s Charlotte Kalla who has had a great start to the season.

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