FasterSkier’s coverage of the 2013 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Val di Fiemme, Italy, is brought to you by the generous support of Fischer Sports.
VAL DI FIEMME, Italy — It was a sea of red on Saturday at the front of the women’s 15 k skiathlon at World Championships. Marit Bjørgen took home her second gold medal of the week with an impressive show of strength on the final climb that left Therese Johaug gasping for air in her wake. Winning never seems to get old for the Norwegian women; they performed a rousing chorus of ‘Heia Norge’ in the finish pen and clearly enjoyed themselves at the awards ceremony.
The camera zooms in on Marit Bjørgen (NOR) as the announcer introduces the first line of starters before the 15 k skiathlon.
They’re off! Justyna Kowalczyk (POL) charges hard from the middle wearing bib no. 1.
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Kowalczyk and Bjørgen lead the pack up the first climb.
Coaches’ corner.
A strong Polish contingent in the stands.
Kowalczyk and Therese Johaug (NOR) set the pace as the group leaves the stadium on their second lap.
Sadie Bjornsen (USA).
Kerttu Niskanen (FIN) moves in front of Kowalczyk.
The stadium greets the leaders as they head for the exchange at the halfway mark.
Changing skis…
Kowalczyk is first out of the pit.
Bjørgen and Kowalczyk briefly tangle, but nobody goes down.
Johaug leads the Norwegian pack on a descent.
Bjørgen moves up as Kowalczyk begins to fade.
An imposing, uniform train.
Johaug latches onto Bjørgen.
“Heia Norge!” The women leave the stadium for their last lap.
Bjørgen looks back to see Johaug behind her.
Victory for Bjørgen. Photo: Fiemme 2013.
Johaug second for a personal best at World Championships.
Bjørgen and Johaug.
Heidi Weng (NOR) finished third for her first medal at World Championships.
The rising star and the reigning queen.
Johaug and Kristin Stoermer Steira, fourth again.
Charlotte Kalla (SWE) congratulates the victor.
Norway chants a chorus of ‘Heia Norge’ for the cameras.
Bjørgen delivers a message to Norway’s staff over the radio.
