Saturday is World Cup Skating:
Classic Specialist Hjelmeset Posts Best Ever Skate Race
Norwegian classic specialist Odd-Bjorn Hjelmeset placed 7th in the Norwegian opening 15 kilometer skate race last weekend. He has never skated this fast before and it has given him hope about (possibly) capturing his first ever skate World Cup point in the upcoming Saturday’s World Cup skate race.
 at the end of the raceâ€.</p>
<p>He felt he has never skated this well before. This was despite waking up to his least desirable conditions last Saturday- 10 centimeter of new snow.</p>
<p>“I have performed well in past skate races as well, but that have been when I have got to draft other skiers. This was my best ever without any drafting.<br />
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Hjelmeset is therefore convinced that he has improved and moved a step forward in skating this season. It’s early to make this type of conclusion but a test-race two weeks ago had also indicated good progress.</p>
<p>‘I’m hitting it much better technically than in the pastâ€</p>
<p>Hlelmeset is now hopeful that he can be a factor in upcoming Duathlon World Cup races (A classic race followed by a skate race).</p>
<p>“I’m usually hanging on well in classic and it should be interesting with my improved skating. I’m skiing even better when I can draft and just hang onâ€, says Hjelmeset.</p>
<p>And if it comes down to a sprint at the end?</p>
<p>“Well, they can tryâ€!</p>
<p>Helmeset’s best ever World Cup skate race is a 31st place. He wants to improve that tomorrow.</p>
<p>“Yes, that’s the goalâ€.</p>
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