Consecutive win for Bolshunov at Holmenkollen 50km
Mar 08, 2020·Cross-Country
Todays prestigious 50km C at the Holmenkollen Skifest was not only a test for physical - but also for mental strength. With much fewer spectators along the course and completely empty stands in the stadium - due to the precautions taken in regard to the current Covid-19 outbreak - thick fog, light rain and wind conditions were tough.
Despite the special circumstances the field of play was open until the final lap. The front runners alternated leads but consisted of a mix of nations. Of course, the local heroes of the Norwegian Ski Federation added their fair share. Sjur Roethe, Dario Cologna, Iivo Niskanen and Hans Christer Holund added to the pace setting in the front.
A unlucky scene emerged from Pål Golberg who was taken out from the front by a fall shortly before the so called «Gratishaugen». Golberg fought back and joined his colleagues Tønseth, Sundby and others in the front.
After the fifth round, most of the top athletes changed their skis and headed back for the head of the group. Alexander Bolshunov only decided to change skis one lap later, together with Røthe, Holund and Tønseth. Half way into the next loop, Bolshunov was back in the lead, closely followed by Dario Cologna and Sjur Røthe.
In the final 6.2km loop, Simen Hegstad Krüger pulled out all energy that was left and only Alexander Bolshunov managed to stick to him. Along the final stretch into the finish, both fought hard for the victory but Bolshunov managed to claim it – for the third time in a row. Around 20 seconds after, Emil Iversen crossed the finish line to complete the stadium. Followed by Eirik Sverdrup Augdal, Hans Christer Holund and Dario Cologna.
