Norwegians claim Triple win in Cross-Country 20 km mass start – Arsi Ruuskanen Best Finnish Skier

In the men’s final race, the 20 km freestyle mass start, the biggest surprise came before the competition even began, when the top favorite, Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo, withdrew from the race at the last moment. According to Norway’s national team doctor, Ove Feragen, Klaebo was experiencing symptoms of a cold. Last year’s winner, Jan Thomas Jenssen, also faced difficulties before the race. The Norwegian was feeling unwell and even vomited just moments before the start.

Despite the early challenges and Klaebo’s absence, Norwegians were able to get a convincing triple win.

Harald Östberg Amundsen won the race, followed by Jan Thomas Jenssen, who managed an excellent result despite his unwellness before the start. Norway’s podium sweep was completed by Martin Löwström Nyenget.

Luckily, I was able to start the race near the front so I didn’t get caught in traffic and have to watch out for other skiers”, commented the race winner, Amundsen

The best Finnish skier was Arsi Ruuskanen, who finished 14th after an impressive performance in his home race. Ruuskanen said he was satisfied with his steadily improving race and had plenty of energy left towards the end of the competition.

Iivo Niskanen, who won the men’s 10 km classic race on Friday, finished 17th. 

“Looking back, it was an unnecessary decision”, Niskanen commented on his choice to lead the pack early in the race.

Remi Lindholm placed 21st in his main race of the weekend.

Other Finnish skiers and their positions: Lauri Lepistö 34th, Lauri Vuorinen 35th, Markus Vuorela 42nd, Joni Mäki 46th, Juuso Haarala 47th, Aleksi Parttimaa 48th, Veeti Pyykkö 57th, Miro Karppanen 60th, Juuso Varis 70th.

Results

Text: Leevi Mettänen

Photo: Noora Luukkanen