VAL DI FIEMME (Nettavisen): Teh inaugural race on the new Olympic trails in Val di Fiemme took place during the fifth stage of the Tour de Ski, with Johannes Høsflot klæbo claiming victory in the men’s category and Switzerland’s Nadine Fähndrich winning the women’s race. The newly designed course sparked a mix of emotions among competitors, with many expressing frustration over the layout, particularly the final descent leading to the finish line. Athletes noted that racing in the lead offered little advantage, as strategic positioning behind other competitors proved more effective for a high-speed finish.Tour de ski leader Astrid Øyre Slind commented on the tactical nature of the race, suggesting that the course design may lead to less exciting finishes. Meanwhile, erik Valnes criticized the course for not rewarding speed in the climbs, calling it a “bingo factor” that diminishes the competitive edge. Despite the mixed reviews, some athletes, like Even northug, appreciated the changes made to the course.
Petter Northug expressed his satisfaction with the current ski course in Val di Fiemme, stating it works well for competitors.While Kristine stavås Skistad is not participating in the Tour de Ski,her coach Øyre Slind believes she is enjoying the race from home,as the course suits her strengths. NRK expert Torgeir Bjørn echoed this sentiment,highlighting the course’s favorable conditions for Skistad. Meanwhile, FIS race director Michal Lamplot announced plans for adjustments to the course, including a larger bump before the finish to reduce speed from the final descent, as part of preparations for the upcoming Olympics.
Insights on the New Olympic Trails in Val di Fiemme: An Interview with Skiing Expert
Editor (Time.news): We’re seeing some significant changes this year during the Tour de Ski at Val di Fiemme, particularly with the new olympic trails. What has been the immediate feedback from the athletes regarding the course design?
expert: The responses have varied quite a bit.Athletes like Johannes Høsflot Klæbo and Nadine Fähndrich, who claimed victories in their respective categories, have shown their ability to adapt and thrive on the new layout.Though, many competitors have expressed frustration, especially concerning the final descent before the finish line.They noted that the tactical nature of the course seems to favor positioning rather than outright speed. As Tour de Ski leader Astrid Øyre Slind pointed out, this could lead to less exciting finishes, as those racing in the lead may not have the advantage one would typically expect.
Editor: That’s an interesting point about the tactical aspect. Can you elaborate on how this might affect the race strategies going forward?
Expert: Absolutely. The feedback implies that racers may need to shift their strategies considerably. The layout encourages athletes to conserve energy and strategically position themselves behind competitors to capitalize on the downhill sections. Erik Valnes critiqued this setup, describing it as a “bingo factor,” suggesting that it diminishes the importance of pure climbing speed, which is traditionally seen as a cornerstone of ski competitions. This means we might see more collaborative racing, where athletes work together to manage their pace rather than racing aggressively for the lead.
Editor: With Kristine Stavås Skistad not participating and her coach expressing confidence in her strengths regarding the course, how does this impact her training and future competitions?
Expert: While Skistad isn’t competing this time, her coach Øyre Slind believes she’s likely enjoying the developments from home. the course being favorable to her style adds a layer of anticipation for her in future competitions, especially as the adjustments occur. Torgeir Bjørn, an NRK expert, highlighted that the conditions generally suit her strengths. This situation poses a great prospect for Skistad to analyze her competitors’ strategies during the Tour, enabling her to develop a more refined racing approach when she returns.
Editor: Speaking of course adjustments, what specific changes are being proposed to improve the racing experience?
Expert: FIS race director Michal Lamplot announced plans to incorporate a larger bump before the finish to regulate speed more effectively during that crucial last descent. This adjustment aims to both enhance the competitive edge and provide a more thrilling finish.By altering the finish dynamics,it can reconnect the excitement surrounding ski racing,as it will likely allow racers to utilize their strengths without the fear that speed alone will not determine the outcome.
Editor: as we look toward the upcoming Olympics, what should we expect in terms of athlete adaptation and strategies on these new trails?
Expert: Given the mixed reviews, athletes will likely spend the upcoming months assessing the course’s intricacies and refining their strategies. Expect a lot of dialogue within teams about how best to approach not just the trails themselves but also the psychological aspects of racing. Competitors will need to harness tactical positioning while also preparing physically for the unique demands of the course. As we’ve seen in the initial stages of the Tour de Ski, adaptability will be key for success on these trails come Olympic time.
This dynamic blend of competition and strategy will continue to develop, showcasing the athletes’ resilience and ingenuity in the rapidly changing world of professional skiing.