VM Hope Changes Focus After Absurd Preparation: – A Long Story

VM Hope Changes Focus After Absurd Preparation: – A Long Story

In a rather troubled lead-up, this season's big goal has come even more into focus for Jørgen Graabak.

"I see myself as a problem solver, and there have been plenty of problems to solve," says Graabak ahead of Saturday's season opener.

The 33-year-old can only smile as he recounts the lead-up to this year's combined season.

"It's a long story, but I can make it short," Graabak mentions.

Here’s the short version: - During the season's very first training session, Graabak gets a stone lodged in the wheel of one roller ski. He falls hard and sustains fractures in both his elbow and hand. A month later, the swelling hasn't subsided, and further examinations reveal that a stone is embedded in his elbow. He must undergo another operation and two months of rehabilitation. - One week after getting clearance, Graabak trips while running. Reflexively trying to save his injured arm, he ends up fracturing his shoulder, resulting in more months on the sidelines. - After recovering from his shoulder injury, Graabak experiences what he calls a "freak accident" at home, resulting in broken ribs.

"It’s been an interesting journey. It’s naturally frustrating to have such a troubled lead-up, but luckily I’m fit to fight and have had some good training weeks," says Graabak.

When asked how much all the issues have set him back, the veteran is uncertain.

"Physically I feel okay, and I’m getting better. I haven’t been able to do much of what I should be doing, like jumping and skiing, but I still have some months to train up. I have faith."

By "some months," Graabak refers to the upcoming World Championship at home in Trondheim.

Key Points

• The World Cup opener is on November 28 in Ruka. Graabak is realistic about his own chances.
• "I don’t expect much of myself. But again, if I’m lucky and deliver well, anything is possible. Others have had much better preparations than I have, so I need to be honest with myself about that."
• He reflects on whether he feels uncertain at all:
• "I wouldn’t say I’m uncertain, but there are question marks. I am quite calm, knowing what I’ve gone through, and I look forward to the season start and where I stand."