“I don’t know what to say”
Östvold’s remarkable rise in ski jumping
January 7, 2025 – 1.37pmReading time: 2 minutes.
Benjamin Östvold: The Norwegian was at the forefront of the Four Hills Tournament. (Source: IMAGO/GEPA Images/Wolfgang Kofler)
Benjamin Östvold has emerged as a surprising contender in the ski jumping world, showcasing his talent during the prestigious Four hills Tournament.
The 23-year-old Norwegian, who recently transitioned from working nights at a hotel to competing at elite levels, finished an impressive 13th overall in the tournament, outperforming established stars like karl Geiger and Ryōyū Kobayashi. Östvold’s journey began with a victory in the Continental Cup in Zhangjiakou, China, and continued with strong performances in Engelberg, leading to his selection for the national team. His remarkable results have not only boosted his confidence but also alleviated his financial struggles, earning him over 15,000 euros in prize money.
Despite his newfound success, Östvold remains grounded, humorously stating that he will continue working at the hotel to support himself. ”I need money,” he said, reflecting on his journey and the challenges ahead.
Q&A with Ski Jumping Expert on Benjamin ÖstvoldS Rise in the Sport
Time.news Editor: Today, we delve into the inspiring story of Benjamin Östvold, who recently made a splash at the Four Hills Tournament. Can you start by sharing your thoughts on his impressive performance?
Expert: Absolutely. Benjamin Östvold’s emergence as a top contender in ski jumping is remarkable, particularly given the challenges he’s faced. Finishing 13th in a field featuring some of the best athletes, such as Karl Geiger and Ryōyū Kobayashi, showcases not only his talent but also his dedication and resilience.
Time.news Editor: What factors do you think contributed to his surprising success this season?
Expert: Östvold’s journey is a testament to his hard work and determination. Transitioning from working nights at a hotel to competing at elite levels illustrates his commitment to the sport. His early successes in the Continental Cup, where he won in Zhangjiakou, China, undoubtedly boosted his confidence.Continued strong performances in Engelberg secured his place on the national team, proving he can compete against seasoned athletes.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating to see an athlete balancing work and competition. How does this reflect on the ski jumping landscape?
Expert: Ski jumping can be an unpredictable career, particularly for athletes from countries where funding isn’t as robust. Benjamin’s situation sheds light on the financial struggles many competitors face.Even after earning over 15,000 euros in prize money, he humorously mentioned the need to continue his hotel job, highlighting the dual demands of making a living while pursuing a sports career. This situation is not unique and indicates a broader issue within the sport that could use more attention.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give to aspiring ski jumpers inspired by Östvold’s story?
Expert: My advice would be to stay committed and remain adaptable. Like Östvold, aspiring ski jumpers should focus on their training and take every opportunity, whether it’s in lower-tier competitions or showcasing their strengths in local events. Networking with established athletes and coaches, and also seeking sponsorship or financial support, can also provide crucial resources for rising stars.
Time.news Editor: Looking ahead, how do you see Östvold’s career progressing, especially after such a standout performance?
Expert: If he continues to build on this momentum and keeps honing his skills, there’s no limit to what Östvold can achieve. His determination and grounded mindset are critically important assets. The ski jumping scene is competitive, but with his talent and recent success, he has the potential to become a regular name in top-tier competitions.His story can also inspire others in sports where financial stability is a concern, showing that success is possible with hard work and resilience.