TelemarkNorwegian Dominance at FIS Telemark World Cup in Ål
The FIS Telemark World Cup in Ål, Norway, delivered an unforgettable weekend of racing, with Norwegian athletes showcasing their dominance in the parallel sprint discipline. The event will be remembered as the Viking Double, with Norway claiming victories in both the men’s and women’s competitions.
Viking Double: Double Victory for Norway
The highlight of the event was Norway’s clean sweep in both the men’s and women’s categories. Kaja Bjørnstad Konow and Trym Nygaard Løken took the top spots in their respective finals, while Maria Heggheim Berge achieved her first-ever World Cup podium at the senior level. The Viking Double marked a historic moment for Norwegian telemark skiing.
Women’s Competition: Konow’s Triumph
Kaja Bjørnstad Konow demonstrated exceptional form from the very first round. She comfortably won her opening duel against compatriot Julie Henn Helgøy and carried that momentum through the quarterfinals, where she outpaced her French competitor with a commanding lead.
The semifinals saw an all-Norwegian battle between Konow and rising star Maria Heggheim Berge. Konow secured her place in the final with a strong performance, while Berge moved on to the bronze medal match.
In the final, Konow faced Argeline Tan Bouquet (FRA) in a thrilling head-to-head race. She took an early lead, maintained control through the reipelykkja, and powered through the skating section to claim her first World Cup victory in parallel sprint. Meanwhile, Berge sealed her first senior podium by defeating Britain’s Jasmine Taylor in the bronze medal race.
Men’s Competition: Nygaard Løken’s Masterclass
Trym Nygaard Løken reaffirmed his status as one of the world’s best telemark skiers with a dominant performance. After a decisive win in his opening race against Vile Noaksson (SWE), he continued his streak in the quarterfinals, easily overcoming Ellie Nabot (FRA).
The semifinal against Nicolas Michel (SUI) was a dramatic encounter. Nygaard Løken trailed going into the reipelykkja but executed a flawless turn, gaining speed to secure his spot in the final.
In the championship race, Nygaard Løken faced France’s Charly Petex. He surged ahead from the start, navigating the course with precision and sealing his second World Cup victory in Ål. The Viking Double was complete, as Norway stood atop both podiums.
This latest triumph adds to Nygaard Løken’s already impressive career. A veteran of the Norwegian telemark team, he has consistently ranked among the top athletes in the sport. With multiple World Cup victories and podium finishes to his name, he remains a dominant force in telemark skiing. His success in Ål reinforces his reputation as a title contender for the overall World Cup standings this season.
Strong Norwegian Presence on the Podium
With two gold medals and a bronze, Norway had much to celebrate. Konow and Nygaard Løken’s victories reinforced their positions as top contenders this season, while Berge’s breakthrough podium hinted at a promising future. The Viking Double showed the strength of Norwegian telemark skiing on the world stage.
Official Results:
Women’s Final Standings:
- Kaja Bjørnstad Konow (NOR) – 2:12.23
- Argeline Tan Bouquet (FRA) – 2:13.50 (+1.27)
- Maria Heggheim Berge (NOR) – 2:16.15 (+3.92)
Men’s Final Standings:
- Trym Nygaard Løken (NOR) – 1:56.64
- Nicolas Michel (SUI) – 1:58.16 (+1.52)
- Charly Petex (FRA) – 1:59.76 (+3.12)
Looking Ahead
The Norwegian team’s stellar performance in Ål sets the stage for an exciting World Cup season. With such strong showings from Konow, Nygaard Løken, and Berge, Norway is proving to be a powerhouse in telemark skiing.
Stay tuned for more updates from the FIS Telemark World Cup!
Reed also about Trym Nygaard Løken (NOR).
