Sundling was clearly the best with a time of 2.40.68, a full four seconds ahead of Finnish Jasmi Joensuu.
Mathilde Myhrvold was Norway’s best in the prologue in third place, just ahead of Julie Myhre in fifth place. Hedda Østberg Amundsen came in eighth.
They are joined by Elena Rise Johnsen, Lotta Udnes Weng, and Ane Appelkvist Stenseth in the knockout rounds, which start at 17:45.
Sundling is among the biggest favorites to win. she won the sprint in Lillehammer last week.
The sprint is on the menu at the upcoming World Championships in Trondheim in February. The strong-performing Myhre has taken a notable step towards a World Championship ticket, while the rest of the spots are far from decided.
– There are a few nerves today. The girls are aware that it is indeed an critically important competition. Julie has perhaps performed the best but we will have several races before we select any team, said assistant coach marit Bjørgen to Viaplay ahead of the qualification.
Kristine Stavås Skistad is not participating in davos. She has struggled with her form lately after undergoing surgery in November.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Expert on Winter Sports
Editor: welcome to Time.news! Today,we’re excited to dive into the recent highlights from the world of winter sports,specifically focusing on Norway’s standout athlete,Mathilde Myhrvold. Joining me is dr. Erik Sund, an expert in sports psychology and performance. Thank you for being here, Dr. Sund!
Dr. Sund: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an inspiring athlete.
Editor: Let’s start with mathilde Myhrvold’s recent performance in Davos. She was noted as the best among the Norwegians in the prologue. What do you think the importance of this achievement is, especially for an athlete at this stage in her career?
Dr. Sund: Mathilde’s performance is incredibly significant. achieving top results in a competitive environment like Davos puts her on the map not just nationally, but internationally as well. It’s a critical milestone that can boost her confidence and set the stage for future successes. The pressure of competing against top athletes and emerging as the best in her country speaks volumes about her mental fortitude.
Editor: Speaking of pressure, how do you think athletes like Mathilde handle the expectations that come with such performances, particularly in a nation with a rich history in winter sports?
Dr. Sund: That’s a grate point. norwegian athletes often face intense scrutiny given their country’s storied legacy in winter sports. For Mathilde, the key is focus. Athletes need to concentrate on their performance rather than external pressures. Mental resilience techniques, like visualization and mindfulness, can considerably help in maintaining composure and enhancing performance.
Editor: Captivating! do you think that the media attention creates additional pressure, or can it serve as motivation for athletes?
Dr. Sund: It can be both. On one hand, media coverage can heighten pressure, leading to anxiety. On the other, it can serve as motivation, fueling their drive to perform well. It ultimately depends on the individual and how thay approach the external distractions. Developing strong mental strategies is crucial for turning that noise into a positive force.
Editor: Mathilde’s recent outings suggest she has solid support… not just in terms of her coaches but also in fans. How vital is that support system for an athlete’s performance?
Dr. Sund: The support system is vital. Having the backing of coaches, teammates, family, and fans can greatly enhance an athlete’s emotional wellbeing.Positive reinforcement and encouragement help build confidence, and knowing there are people cheering for them can be a significant motivator during tough competitions.
Editor: Looking ahead, what do you think Mathilde needs to focus on to continue her growth and success?
Dr. Sund: She should concentrate on maintaining her momentum and refining her skills. Setting incremental goals will help her continue to improve. Additionally, managing expectations—both from herself and others—will be crucial. Balancing the pursuit of excellence with mental wellness is essential to ensure sustained success.
Editor: how do you see the future for young athletes like Mathilde in the ever-evolving landscape of winter sports?
Dr. sund: The future is shining. With the advancements in sports science,nutrition,and mental health awareness,young athletes like Mathilde have more resources than ever to help them excel. As they compete, we can expect more remarkable performances that not only honor their country’s legacy but also inspire the next generation.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sund, for your insightful perspective on Mathilde Myhrvold and the broader implications for winter sports athletes. It’s exciting to witness how these young talents can shape the future of the sport!
Dr. Sund: Thank you! I look forward to seeing how Mathilde and her peers continue to rise in the world of winter sports.