CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Why are the Norwegians so good at cross-country skiing? In the recent world championships, by coincidence held on home turf in Oslo, they dominated.

In the women's competition, they won five of the six events, with Marit Bjoergen taking gold in the sprint, 15 km pursuit, and 10km classic, and a silver, behind teammate Therese Johaug, in the 30km freestyle. They were also both part of the winning 4 x 5km relay team, and Johaug won a bronze elsewhere. The only event not won by Norway was the team sprint, where they came third.

In the men's competition Petter Northug won gold in the 30km pursuit and 50km freestyle, and silver in the sprint, while other team members were second and third in the 15km classic. Norway were always going to win the 4 x 10km relay; they also came second in the team sprint.

It must help if there are 100,000 compatriots camping out overnight in order to cheer you on as you glide past. But this was a phenomenal all-round performance. I know that there are lots of hills and snow in Norway, which must breed cross-country skills at an early age; but there are also lots of hills and snow in other countries, next door Sweden for example. One can only admire.

Walter Blotscher