After sucessful day of the Russian junior ladies, Sergey Ustiugov led his team to victory also in he men's 10 km classic at Erzurum. Ustiugov, sprint champion from Monday, dominated today's competition in 14:53.1. Ermil Vokuev had a fast second 5 km lap and stormed to silver medal. Sinder Bjoernestad Skar was coping today with back problems but with a strong performance he grabbed bronze medal.
Ustiugov started strong from the first meters of the competition. At the first intermediate point he was behind Norway's Sinder Bjoernestad Skar but at the halfway point he took over the lead and controlled the race. Ustiugov was building up the pace and crossed the finish line with a clear margin of +22.5 sec over runner up and compatriot Ermil Vokuev.
Sindre Bjoernestad Skar was coping today with back ache but was fighting hard for the medal. It was very tight between the Norwegian and Iivo Niskanen of Finland. Only one second decided that second that Skar claimed the second bronze medal at the Junior World Ski Championships in Erzurum.
Sergey Ustiugov (RUS)
I'm in the heaven! It's a complete surprise for me. I was ready to fight today but I did not expect to win the gold medal. I did my best. I felt I was fast from the beginning of the competition. I was keeping the speed high to the finish.
Ermil Vokueev (RUS)
This is my first medal in my life. I am extremely happy today. I tried to do my best and I was fighting till the end. I like the course very much. Also the high altitude and cold temperatures fit me very well. The conditions were perfect for me today.
Sindre Bjoernestad Skar (NOR)
It was a nightmare today. My main goal was to win a medal today. Other result than a podium did not matter for me. When I heard I did not have a chance for the gold and silver medal I gave everything I had for the bronze. I got the information from the coaches it was very close between me and Iivo Niskanen. In the end I was just pushing as hard as I could.
