Jacobsen Avoids Back Surgery

Astrid Jacobsen (NOR) who was involved in a bike accident last week, will avoid back surgery, and should be able to train at full strength in the fall.  Her injuries are still considered quite serious, and she required surgery on both her jaw and her elbow.  The Norwegian team is committed to the helping get the 2007 Sprint World Champion back to top form.

“We are not going to hold back and are prepared to put in the resources needed to get Astrid back and as well prepared for Olympics as possible,” said coach Åge Skinstad.

Jacobsen also won a bronze at the 2007 World Championships in the Team Sprint and was second in the overall World Cup in 2008.  Her performance dropped off markedly last year.  She started only four World Cup races, completing three.  Her top finish was a 20th.  She did compete in the World Championships in Liberec, finishing 5th in the Team Sprint.

Initially there was significant concern about Jacobsen’s back.  The injury was not described as overly serious for non-elite athlete, but for a World Cup skier, it could have been career threatening.  And though the prognosis is good, there is no guarantee that she will be able to return to full strength.  Surgery would have extended the recovery time.

Sources:  Langrenn.com, Adressa.no