Only couple of days after Toppidrettsveka some of the best skiers will meet again. This time in Hamar (NOR) for a Kirkkebaken Grand Prix.
Kirkebakken Grand Prix is a sprint event, which is only 200 meters long and takes place in the center of Hamar and ends before stairs of the Hamar cathedral. Program starts on Friday, 20 August at 17:30. The competition will last 90 minutes with a prize giving ceremony at 19:00.
First Kirkkebaken Grand Prix was organized in 2002. This Friday athletes will meet for the 8th time. Some of the Norway's national team members such as Marit Bjoergen, Therese Johaug, Kristin Stoermer Steira or Petter Northug with Oeystein "Poelsa" Pettersen will take part.
Marcus Hellner at Kirkebakken Grand Prix
Double Olympic champion Marcus Hellner announced to come as well to face Petter Northug in another duel. Organizers had been in negotiation with Marcus Hellner since World Cup on Holmenkollen and took care of Marcus Hellner travel arrangements to Hamar. Hellner will fly at 6:00 on Friday from Kiruna through Oslo to Stockholm.
Kristin Stoermer Steira returns after injury
According to LOCs web Krtistin Stoermer Steira got a "go" from her doctor and will take part in the race. Steira suffered fatigue fracture and had to carry out special training workouts. Despite having a cast plaster she should be at the start on Friday. Together with Steira there will be six Olympic medalist at the start line.
