The FIS released an updated Olympic quota list today. The US now has 10 total spots, and Canada 15.
It is still possible that more quota spots could become available. A number of teams have a current quota higher than the number of athletes that have been. Norway for instance has named 19 skiers, but has held onto all 20 spots. One possibility is that some nations have not returned quota spots – either because they would like to keep the option open of adding other skiers before the February final deadline for rosters, or because they simply neglected to inform the FIS.
The former seems more likely, as several nations have held quota 1 or 2 spots greater than their named team – but have not kept the entire quota.
Sweden has named 16 but has 17 spots, while France has named 12 but still has 13 spots.
At this point it is difficult to determine if there is a chance for further reallocation.
Monday the 25th was the deadline for countries to confirm the use of quota spots. Today was the date for the FIS to inform NOCs off reallocated spots.
The reallocation process ends on Thursday, and according to USSA Nordic Director, John Farra, more spots could be reallocated.
Who Will it Be?
Since the release of these numbers, rumors have been flying. Canada will likely take Gord Jewett, Drew Goldsack, Brent McMurtry and Brittany Webster.
The US will likely take Garrott Kuzzy (USST/CXC Team Vertical Limit) and Holly Brooks (APU), continuing down the points list.
This information has not been confirmed by either Cross-Country Canada or USSA, but appears to be solid. Brooks told FasterSkier that the naming is unofficial at this point. That is most likely a formality as all Olympic selections do have to be confirmed by the USOC.
Said Brooks “I didn’t think I was going to find out today. I was planning on going to this altitude camp (in Canmore) tomorrow at 7am with some of the other skiers, and it would have sucked to be there with these Olympians and not be able to go.”
Brooks was clearly excited with the interview punctuated with screams of delight.
We can expect formal announcements soon.
A break down on how the process played out can be found here.
Topher Sabot
Topher Sabot is the editor of FasterSkier.
