A national race in Norway, dare we say, may at times be at least as competitive as some World Cups: the field is deep. Today in Beitostølen, Norway the men contested a 15-kilometer classic in tricky waxing conditions.
With fine classic technique on display, Didrik Tønseth of Norway won in 34:56.7. Teammates Johannes Høsflot Klæbo placed second, 18.9 seconds back with Simen Hegstad Krüger taking third (+36.5).
David Norris (APU) was the top placed U.S. skier in 36th (+2:39.5). Erik Bjornsen of the U.S. Ski Team (UUST) was 54th (3:12.6), Kyle Bratrud (SMS T2) 73rd (+3:59.2), and Scott Patterson (USST) raced to 94th (+4:48.5). Simi Hamilton (USST) and Kevin Bolger (USST) were listed as did not start.
David Norris’ interview from the mixed zone
Scott Patterson’s interview from the mixed zone
Great Britain’s Andrew Young placed 63rd (+3:36.9) on the day. In his interview below he discussed how he enters the season coming off an extended altitude camp prior to the World Cup season.
Andrew Young’s interview from the mixed zone
Click images below to enlarge.
Aleks Tangen
Aleks is a freelance journalist based in Gjøvik, Norway, covering ski-related sports and track & field. He also works part time as a model and reads a new book almost every week.