Crucial Day Ahead: "It's the Only Thing I'm Thinking About"

Crucial Day Ahead: "It's the Only Thing I'm Thinking About"

As the World Cup season kicks off in Ruka, Norwegian cross-country skiers are facing a high-stakes moment. Erik Valnes, like many of his teammates, recognizes the importance of performing well this weekend to secure a place on the national team for the World Championships in Trondheim.

Despite the early nature of the season, Valnes stated, "The first World Cup races are extremely important." He understands that performing well in Ruka could significantly affect his chances of qualifying for the World Championships.

Valnes notes, "It's the only thing I'm thinking about right now. If I reach the podium in Ruka, I am almost ready for the World Championships." The pressure is on, especially with the ten-kilometer classic event on Friday, the only time this distance will be featured before the team selections for the championships.

Another factor adding to the tension is the strong internal competition within the Norwegian team. Valnes believes this competitiveness can push athletes to excel but might also benefit foreign competitors like Finland’s Iivo Niskanen, who doesn’t have the same immediate pressure as the Norwegian athletes.

Valnes is determined to elevate his performance from the season's opening event at Beitostølen, where he finished 10th. As the athletes head into this crucial weekend, all eyes will be on their performances in Ruka and the prospects for the World Championships later in the winter.