Oestberg Two For Two at World Juniors

Topher Sabot · February 3, 2009

Praz de Lys, France – Invild Flugstad Oestberg (NOR) won her second World Junior gold in two events, taking the victory in the 10km pursuit. Oestberg skied at the front the entire race, breaking away in the skate leg en route to 24.3 second victory over Finland’s Krista Lahteenmaki. Hanna Brodin (SWE) claimed her second podium of the Championships, adding the bronze to a silver in the SUnday’s sprint. Brodin was just over 40 seconds behind Oestberg.

The top three broke from the pack during the 5km classic leg, and held an 18 second lead at the transition.

In addition to her gold medal, Oestberg received news that she has been named to the Norweigan World Championship Team and will compete in Liberec.

Said the delighted 18-year old “I am very happy today, I never expected a second gold medal at the Juniors. It is absolutely crazy. I also feel a bit sad for Marthe who couldn’t race today. I hope she will be back on Thursday. I also hope to ski in Firdya’s relay, as well as the 5km freestyle on Thursday.

“Yesterday I also got the official nomination for the Senior World Championships in Liberec! I never expected that – it great!”

Oestberg referred to teammate Marte Kristoffersen, the favorite heading into these Championships, who was unable to race due to illness.

Added third place finisher Brodin ““It was an amazing race. I gave it everything and was quite tired after the race. I had no special tactic during the race – only ski fast and it worked out. The next race will be on Thursday and I looking forward to it.”

The US was led by Sophie Caldwell in 26th place. Caldwell was just under three minutes off the winning pace. Adele Espy was not far behind in 33rd. Jesse Diggins in 43rd and Rebecca Rorabaugh in 51st rounded out the US entries.

Janelle Greer paced the Canadian team in 37th, closely followed by Marlis Kromm in 39th. Laurianne Oulette and Catherine Auclair finished 57th and 58th respectively of the 62 women who finished the race.

Racing continues on Thursday with a 5km freestyle.

Women’s World Junior 10km Pursuit – Complete Results