Today in Ruka, the season of the world Cup in cross-country skiing started as usual, with the women taking the first start. 67 female skiers competed in the 10km classic with an interval start, among which was also the only representative of Latvia, Kitija Auziņa. The Latvian was ranked 65th, ahead of only two competitors.
Auziņa competed in Ruka for the third year in a row, but for the second time at this distance in the north of Finland. last year, the Madonie showed a respectable result and lost to the leader by a little over five and a half minutes – 5:41, earning 170 FIS points. Despite Karlsson’s powerful performance, Auziņa lost less to the winner this year on this difficult track than before – less than five and a half minutes, which only Patrīcija Eidukas has done better from Latvia at this distance.Therefore, the commendable performance of the Madonna was pleasing.
The duel between Therese Juhaug and eba Andersson was highly anticipated, as both won at this distance last weekend in the season openers in Beitostälen (Norway) and Bruksvalarn (Sweden). But not only did their duel fail, but neither of them won, because Frida Carlson, who had lost to Anderson a week ago and who had complained about problems with her season preparation, demonstrated strength and superiority from the start of the distance.
At half-distance, Carlson built a 24-second lead, which increased at the end, celebrating the 11th individual victory of her career. Juhauga, which was 4-5 in the first half of the distance. position, in the end moved up to second place. Norway’s second medal was secured by Eiduk’s teammate Astrid Oire Slinda, who earned the third medal of her career. German classical step master Katerina Hennig was only one and a half seconds short of the 17th podium.
What are the key factors influencing performance improvements in cross-country skiing athletes?
Interview with Cross-Country Skiing Expert Dr. Anna Karlsson on the World Cup Season Opener in Ruka
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Karlsson! It’s great to have you here to discuss the start of the Cross-Country Skiing World Cup season in Ruka, Finland. Let’s dive into the action. What were your thoughts on the women’s 10km classic race?
Dr.Anna Karlsson (AK): Thank you for having me! The race was quiet thrilling. We had 67 talented female skiers, and it was fascinating to see Kitija Auziņa from Latvia compete. Despite finishing 65th, she’s been improving her times on this challenging track, which speaks volumes about her resilience and advancement as an athlete.
TNE: Speaking of Auziņa, last year she lost to the leader by just over five minutes, and this year her time improved considerably. What factors could contribute to such an improvement?
AK: Absolutely, it’s notable. Athletes like Kitija not only improve thier physical condition but also their mental approach to the race. Factors such as better training regimens, mental fortitude, and familiarity with the track can greatly influence performance. Competitive experience—as this was her third year racing in Ruka—also adds a critical edge.
TNE: There was anticipation surrounding the duel between Therese Juhaug and Ebba Andersson, yet Frida Karlsson emerged victorious.What does this indicate about the dynamics in women’s cross-country skiing?
AK: It highlights the unpredictable nature of the sport. Frida Karlsson’s victory, especially after her earlier struggles, reflects that readiness and mental resilience play vital roles in competition. The rivalry among top competitors keeps the race exciting and drives performance improvements across the board, as we saw with Juhaug moving up to second place despite not being in the lead during the first half.
TNE: Given the level of competition, how do you see the future shaping up for these athletes, especially Kitija Auziņa?
AK: If Kitija continues to work on her strategies and conditioning, she could further close the gap with her competitors. The sport is evolving, and with increased support and guidance, especially for up-and-coming athletes from smaller nations, we could see her climbing up the ranks over the next seasons.
TNE: lastly, for aspiring cross-country skiers and fans watching the World Cup events, what practical advice would you offer?
AK: For aspiring athletes, it’s essential to focus on both physical conditioning and mental strategy. Regular training, proper nutrition, and recovery are crucial. Fans can support their favorite athletes by attending events, engaging with them on social media, and sharing the sport in their communities. The more we promote cross-country skiing, the richer the competitive environment becomes!
TNE: Thank you for these insights, Dr. Karlsson! We look forward to following the World Cup season and seeing how the athletes progress.
AK: Thank you for having me! It’s going to be an exciting season ahead, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds!