Krüger, Holund, Burman secure last World Cup podium of the season
Mar 14, 2021·Cross-Country
The wintery Engadin weather picked up for the seasons final World Cup competition of the men. As in the womens race in the morning, the even stronger headwing challenged the competitor field and it was difficult to make a move ahead and to stay in position. The lead was alternated but the speed was relatively low as the racers knew that it was going to be a tough race all along the 50km from Maloja to S-chanf.
A break away seemed possible but difficult to maintain. However, Alexey Chervotkin (RUS) set out after 30km, past the highest point of the course around the Stazerwald forest and Pontresina and managed to remain unchased for most of the remaining race. The following group consisted of still around 20 athletes but despite the man in the front, no athletes seemed to be making a move to catch up. Harald Østberg Amundsen (NOR) one of the seven Norwegian skiers that were all lined up in top position, took over the clear leading task and managed to smaller the gap to Chervotkin consistently.
The chasing group only caught up with Chervotkin 5km before the finish, after leaving him work by himself for 15km. Shortly after, Simen Hegstad Krüger (NOR) set out to the leading position and the speed was taken up when Alexander Bolshunov (RUS) approached from behind. Hans Christer Holund (NOR) managed to stay on the heels of the leaders that were now up to exhilirating the race. Using his excellent skills as a climber, Holund impressively pulled out all energy on the last uphill. Jens Burman (SWE) managed to keep Holund challenged but had to fight himself with Krüger, to not loose his top position. The Swede had many times finished a World Cup competition in fourth place but finally, the step on the podium seemed near.
Krüger managed to reach the lead of the group as the trio headed downhill in the final kilometer. The victory was near and so, Simen Hegstad Krüger did not want to miss his chances. Krüger finishes first before Hans Christer Holund and maiden World Cup podium winner Jens Burman.
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