Article written by: Kjell Erik Kristiansen
Impressive Kalla in Canmore
Charlotte Kalla claimed impressive victory over hetr favorite distance 10 kilometer Free in Canmore. On this particular distance Marit Bjoergen is the biggest favorite for gold. Is Norway scared?
"I have no idea who Marit's shape is. I competed with her for the last time in Davos before Christmas, "says Charlotte. Kalla was asked if she thinks she would have beaten Bjoergen in Canmore last Friday. In Davos Kalla was second and Bjoergen fourth staying behind only by 3 sec.
"Marit is the one I fear most at the Olympics. I cannot do more than ski as fast as I can!" knows the Swedish star who was naturally delighted with her victory in the last test before the Olympics.
"I'm very happy. I tried to be calm at the beginning of the race not focus on the split times. After 1 km I was eight seconds behind "she said in Canmore-race.
Norwegian coaches relaxed
Norwegian national team manager Vidar Löfshus was not concerned about Kalla's performance in Canmore.
"No, we have everything under control. I do not thins it was any special performance of Kalla. I believe Bjørgen and Steira would have been on the podium at this competition as well, "says Löfshus. War of nerves started between Sweden and Norway for the women's 10 km Free in Whistler.
Answers next Monday
Norway did not have any lady on the start in Friday's 10 km in Canmore, Alberta. They had finished their pre-Olympic camp in Sun Valley, Idaho in the United States and went afterwards to Olympic village in Whistler. We will get the answer in the Kalla vs. Bjoergen case on Monday, February 15 when 10 km Free race is scheduled.
Charlotte Kalla says that she has not reached her maximum yet.
"I think I need a bit more to win in Olympic gold. And I have a bit more spare", she said after the race on Friday.
As I said: War of nerves has started ...
Original article here.
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