Bolshunov reigns over 15km C Pursuit
Jan 06, 2021·Cross-Country
In an unbelievable performance of strength, Alexander Bolshunov (RUS) extended his 8 second margin from the start to 55 seconds throughout the race! “I knew today I had two options, either we would take this as a mass start and push each other in a group or I would try it by myself. After I heard that I had a good extend in the first intermediate, I knew I could do it,” said the winner and defending Tour de Ski leader after the race.
The six Russian athletes group with Spitsov, Yakimushkin, Chervotkin, Maltsev, Belov and Melnichenko had ensured themselves top spots for the chase of their leading man. Only Frenchman Maurice Manificat managed to squeeze between the Russian squad. Within the successor group however, the spots had to be defended as they remained together through the race. Only on the final downhill Ivan Yakimushkin and Evgeniy Belov managed to win precious seconds which ensured them the remaining spots on the podium.
