Nordic SkiingCross Country - Sweden
Getty Images
A fifth place in the overall standings of the World Cup, topped off with two individual podiums, would represent an excellent seasonal budget for almost all racers on the planet; not for Charlotte Kalla, that in the wake of disappointment for a 2015-16 winter in below expectations has decided to set up, for the first time in his career, a private team.
Friday 11 November 2016 4 minutes reading time
"It is a particular situation, he have far fewer people around than usual," said the 29 year-old in Swedish Dagbladet. "The group around me, though, it gives me great energy. I feel more motivated than ever. For the rest, in terms of programs I have not changed much. But they are more in touch with my personal trainer, Magnus Ingesson. Our cooperation is more effective. "
The initiative is obviously not unprecedented. The most famous case is that of the current Petter Northug. "I have not spoken with him, because I prefer to do what I feel and it seems fairer to me and to my coach, instead of following the advice of others," said Kalla, "but the example of Petter gives me great charge. He has shown that he can win it all working separately from the rest of the team, if you do things the right way ".
Kalla said to feel in better shape than last year, although it will naturally wait until the first few races to have real recognition: "I did some testing in October, which confirmed the good feeling I had throughout the fall. I am optimistic and I hope to reach the top form at the World Cup in Lahti, which are the main target. I can not be sure of what my level than the other, but we will soon have some answers. I'm stronger last year, but there is also competition. "
Sweden hopes that the growth of Stina Nilsson will help to ease the pressure on his shoulders: "Stina can take away a little 'pressure. It is very strong and I believe that it is still improved. It is considered by many just a sprinter, but has enormous potential and will be competitive for the whole winter. "
The most feared competition is clearly that of the Norwegians: "They are the most difficult to beat. I could not even list them one by one, are many. Last year they dominated. It will be interesting also follow American and Finnish ".
One of the main questions of the season as the competitiveness of Bjørgen, returning from maternity leave. "I'm sure he will come back Marit very strong," Kalla said about it. "If we will be as strong as before the maternity, I can not know. She still part of an exceptional base, built over many years of training. Return will be easier for her than for others. "
Inevitable a word about the case Johaug: "Racing without Therese is strange and sad, although the competition will be more open. I support it and I hope to come back in the race as soon as possible ".
#FISCROSSCOUNTRY FISCROSSCOUNTRY #SCIDIFONDO
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Social media engagement
Ultimi in Sport invernali
Due settimane ad Anterselva per la nazionale maschile, c'è anche Giacomel per il raduno in quota
Nel sito olimpico, da lunedì 14 a sabato 26 settembre ecco gli azzurri del biathlon impegnati in un blocco di lavoro cruciale: il trentino, nell'ultima fase del suo recupero, con una preparazione mirata ma di nuovo assieme ai compagni.
2