11.3.2011

Unforgettable Championships in Olso

The highlight of the Nordic winter this year once again took place on the Holmenkollen in Oslo (NOR). This was the fourth time that Oslo has hosted the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, confirming the Holmenkollen's reputation as a mecca for Nordic ski sports. At this year's World Cup, held between 23 February and 6 March, all attendance records were broken.

275,000 fans cheered the athletes in the arena alone. In total, well over 500,000 Nordic ski fans attended the event. The highlight of the Championships was the final of the 50 km men's cross-country race, with more than 100,000 making their way to the event location. Some even arrived a few days before the event, staying in tents to secure the best places along the route. When the race was won by Petter Northug from Norway, it was clear to everyone involved that this has been Championships like no others. In total, 21 different events were held. While Austria won gold in all 5 of the jump events, the host nation Norway secured 8 of the possible 12 gold medals in cross-country skiing. More variety, however, in the winners of the combined event.
Everyone will remember this event for a long time to come, especially the world champions. Traditionally, all the winners are personally congratulated on the Holmenkollen by the King of Norway. And according to police estimates, more than 650,000 people attended the official award ceremonies on University Square in Oslo.

Particular attention was paid to the new ski jump, rebuilt especially for the World Cup. It is considered the most modern in the world and has set new standards in terms of design. Andreas Kofler from Austria set the new jump record with a 141m jump.

At the start of the Championships, fog and wind dampened spectators' enjoyment somewhat. During the week, however, conditions improved, and fans and athletes enjoyed perfect visibility. TechnoAlpin once again ensured that ground conditions were perfect. 3x A30, 5x PIANO, and 2x M18 fan guns were used on the ski jump take-off ramp and on the cross-country trail. The pumping station, pond aeration and two compressor stations were also installed by the snow experts. The system is controlled using ATASSplus control software, and the intelligent system ensured constant conditions along the entire trail.

The next big event for Nordic athletes will take place in two years' time, when the World Championships are held in Val di Fiemme (ITA).