Trude Dybendahl, Former Cross-Country Skiing Champion, Dies at 58

Former cross-country skiing world champion Trude Dybendahl has sadly passed away at the age of 58. Her son, Torjus Dybendahl Hartz, confirmed the news, which was initially reported by Nordre Aker Budstikke.

Dybendahl, who represented the Oslo club Kjelsås, celebrated her greatest achievement in 1991 when she claimed victory in the 5 km classic race at the World Championships in Val di Fiemme. Additionally, she was a key member of the Norwegian relay team that secured a silver medal at the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics.

Throughout her illustrious career, Dybendahl earned three Olympic relay silvers, six World Championship medals, and notched up seven World Cup victories. She was married to Danish skier Ebbe Hartz for many years, and together they raised two sons.

Outside of her skiing achievements, Dybendahl was an advocate for women's empowerment, founding the 'Women Wake Up!' conference and co-authoring a children's book. In recognition of her efforts, she received the Red Cross Prize for 'Person of the Year' in 1990.

In the wake of her passing, many prominent figures in the sport, including former champion Bjørn Dæhlie and ski federation president Tove Moe Dyrhaug, have paid heartfelt tributes, honoring her remarkable contributions to skiing and her lasting legacy as both an athlete and an individual.