Stadaas Secures Marcialonga Victory Amidst Grueling Conditions
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A dramatic finish saw Kasper Stadaas claim victory at the Marcialonga ski race in northern Italy, overcoming challenging weather conditions and a near miss with the ceremonial victory wreath. The race, known as “The Long March,” tested athletes with dense snowdrifts and poor track conditions.
A Close Call at the Finish Line
The finish of the Marcialonga was anything but routine for Stadaas. He was forced to dodge the victory wreath as it was thrown towards him in celebration. “It didn’t work,” quipped Hans Andreas Solbakken during NRK’s live broadcast, highlighting the chaotic scene. Stadaas later explained that his primary focus was securing the win against competitors Amund Riege and Alvar Myhlbäck.
“It boils quite well in the head,” Stadaas told NRK, describing the intensity of the moment. “Then I see that he is about to give me the wreath. I have seen many of the previous races and know that they are quite keen on it. But I didn’t feel confident about that victory, so I just had to duck.”
Teamwork Fuels Aker Dæhlie’s Success
The day ultimately belonged to Team Aker Dæhlie, with Stadaas and Riege securing the top two spots on the podium. Stadaas was quick to credit his teammate for the win. “I would not have won without Amund (Riege),” he stated. “He opened up for me in the penultimate turn. Then I had the opportunity to go ahead first. The fact that we are number one and two does a great deal for our team.”
The race itself presented significant challenges, with severe weather impacting the course. “That’s how it will be. It’s raging here. It’s difficult for the ground crew to get some decent runs as well,” Stadaas observed, underscoring the difficult conditions.
Northug Struggles, Gukild Celebrates Personal Triumph
Former champion Petter Northug faced a difficult race, ultimately finishing 61st after struggling in the final kilometers. The Swedish Lager 157 Ski Team, led by Oskar Kardin, attempted to set up Alvar Myhlback for a strong finish, but Northug’s pace faltered as he faced a steep climb in the final stretch.
Despite the challenging conditions, other athletes found moments of success. Emil Gukild, competing among roughly 6,500 participants – including over 1,250 Norwegians – achieved a personal victory by finishing ahead of fellow Norwegian skier Thomas Alsgaard. “My form is as good as it has ever been before,” Gukild said. “After I was taken under Petter’s wings here, I have peaked.” He finished 133rd with a time of 3:59.56, besting Alsgaard by two and a half minutes. Gukild also noted a humorous moment during the race, stating, “We were caught up by the ladies just at the sprint in Canazei. Was it on TV?”
The Marcialonga proved to be a grueling test of endurance and skill, with athletes battling both their competitors and the elements. The race highlighted the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and a little bit of luck in achieving victory.
