6 kilometers. Her coach Ida Ingemarsdotter said she did not know what happened. 5 kilometers, Andersson was over two minutes behind the leaders.
The race was historic as it was the first time women and men competed on the course simultaneously. Andersson had recently skipped a World Cup event in Lahti to compete in the Ski Classics long-distance race Orsa Grönklitt, a decision that drew criticism. Swedish team chief Anders Byström called it unfortunate, and experts like Hanna Falk and Johan Esk expressed disapproval, citing concerns about sponsors and World Cup status.
I did not know what happened.
Andersson explained her choice was due to the appeal of an individual 50km race and her recovery from illness after the Olympics, though she acknowledged she might have decided differently with a broader perspective. She hopes her participation sparks discussion on balancing traditional skiing with Ski Classics. Fellow skier Frida Karlsson stated she has never considered skipping World Cup events for long-distance races.
It was unfortunate.
My choice was due to the appeal of an individual 50km race and my recovery from illness after the Olympics, though I acknowledge I might have decided differently with a broader perspective.
I hope my participation sparks discussion on balancing traditional skiing with Ski Classics.
I have never considered skipping World Cup events for long-distance races.