#livetoski
with Marit Bjørgen
Marit Bjørgen, from Trondheim, Norway, is the most successful cross-country skier and Winter Olympian of all time. With 18 world championship titles, 15 Olympic medals - including 8 gold - and 114 World Cup victories, the exceptional athlete has shaped the winter sports scene for years. But the 43-year-old mother of two is also one of the biggest names off the track, passing on her passion for cross-country skiing to the next generation.
When did you start skiing?
I grew up on a farm with one older brother and a sister who was six years younger. We all liked to be out in the nature. My mother loved skiing also, so she took us out skiing already at the age of two or three years.
How was the beginning of your career?
I loved skiing and I didn’t think about becoming an Olympic or World Champion. When I stepped up to the National Team, I understood it's maybe possible to be a good skier.
What was your biggest success?
It’s hard to pick one result which is special. In the beginning, winning the first World Cup in a distance race was very big, then winning the first sprint in Düsseldorf in 2002. Later, the Vancouver Olympics and winning the 30K in PyeongChang at the end of my career was likewise very special.
How important was the team around you?
Of course, it was hard work to be on the highest level but, together with the friends and the team around me, I had a really good time. I can say that this group is my second family.
How did you deal with the pressure during your skiing career?
In the beginning, it was more difficult. I had to learn that I decide by myself if it was a good or a bad race and not let the media decide about it. However, the biggest pressure comes from yourself.
What did you learn during your skiing career for your “normal” life?
I think I learned a lot of things. You have to work hard to achieve your goals. Also, the way we worked together on the team – you always can learn from each other because we all have different strengths.
Do you miss something from sports?
I'm not missing all the hard work you have to do to be on the highest level, but honestly sometimes, I miss the feeling when you are competing and winning. This you can’t find outside sports.
What would you give as an advice to young skier starting a professional career?
They have to do it for themselves and don’t do it for their parents, the trainer, or others.
Did you miss something in life because of skiing?
I don't think I missed something. There weren’t that many holidays or going out partying or something. But I think I have been enjoying the life I had because I could do what I liked the most: skiing and training.
What means skiing for you now?
When I was an athlete, not every training session was that great to do. But now I go cross-country skiing because of I want to get out and enjoy nature. When I feel it is enough, I go home. And sometimes I just stay at home if there is not enough motivation to go outside.
How does skiing with your kids work?
I like to be out together with my kids skiing. It's great to show them what I really like.
How important is it for you that your kids are racing?
For me it is more important that they like to go out and ski. They have to follow their own way and do what they really want to do themselves. However, if they really want to race, I will be there and support them.
