Norwegian John Kristian Dahl won one of history’s greatest cluster sprints when Vasaloppet was settled this year – resulting in his second victory in three years. Now he faces an even bigger challenge: to stay mentally on top for 220 kilometers.
7th, 7th, 1st, 5th and 1st. That is the result list of John Kristian Dahl’s participations in Vasaloppet. Not bad for a skier who built his career as a sprinter in the World Cup.
What is it with you and Vasaloppet?
– It just seems like Vasaloppet suits me quite well. I cannot really put my finger on what it is. The whole setting and the fact that there is so much tradition in the competition give me extra energy. All that is left is to make sure you have good skis, great shape and to give 100 percent from the start.
You are sprinter initially. What made you decide to participate in a long-distance race?
– The interest has actually always been there. Longer distances have been a central part in the training even during my time as a sprinter. When I finally tested Vasaloppet and ended up seventh without any special preparation, others interest also woke up. I was contacted by Team United Bakeries and took the chance. My best time as a sprinter was already seeing its end, as I did not have the same explosiveness as before.
What does your sprint background mean to you?
– My teammate and me have chosen to use the sprint experience as a strength during endurance races. Explosiveness is both an asset when you want to shrug off a cluster, or when you have the chance to win a race in a sprint to the finish line. The sprint background has obviously also gotten me a lot of raw double poling strength.
How did you first hear about Red Bull Nordenskiöld Race?
– There has been some talk about this race for some time. I read about the plans a few years ago. Then I talked some with both Daniel Tynell and Jerry Ahrlin. It is very exciting. I have never skied as far and during as long time before.
What are your thoughts about the competition?
– The first thing I thought when I heard about the distance was that it sounded a bit like a cycling distance; that it would take a whole day to cover the distance. On skis, it should be possible to make the distance of 220 kilometers in about 10-11 hours. But one must be humble before the task. I have never skied this far before and I do not know how the body will react or how it will feel mentally. What happens when it starts to hurt after 100 kilometers? You will have to take it slow in the beginning.
So what is the biggest challenge?
– It will obviously be tough physically. But the mental part will probably become even more challenging. One must ask the question ”Do I really want this?” And the answer must be ”Yes, I do!”. The mental part will be something completely new and being able to cope mentally is probably what will determine the race. I know exactly how my body feels after 90 kilometers and it is not easy to convince oneself to continue for another 130 kilometers.
What is your goal with the race?
– It is very difficult to set a target. I mainly go to Jokkmokk to participate and to accept the challenge. Then I will let my body decide once I get there; if it feels good, I will push myself. I am there to test my limits, and should I feel up for it, then it would be fun to be fighting for victory.
How do you prepare?
– First of all, the competition season stretches until April 2 and Visma Ski Classics. So my training schedule will be just about as usual. I might be able to manage to squeeze in an extended training session during Easter, that is if the family permits that I am out all day. Then it is the mental part that I will especially work with, to really want to prepare for the tough moments in the race.
What are you thoughts about energy intakes and drinks?
– This is also something that can determine the race. During Vasaloppet we only drink. This race probably also requires solid food. I will have a plan, but I will not know how well it works until then and there, in the moment. It may require a little improvisation, too.
Will you kick wax or use your double poling?
– There will be only double poling from my part.
Finally, do you have any good tips to share to the many ski enthusiasts that will take part in the race?
– The most important thing is probably to have covered a really long distance before the race, to get the feel of it. Some of them will be out for more than 20 hours. This makes it equally important for as well enthusiasts as professionals to prepare mentally.
Bild: John Kristian Dahl Photo credit: Visma Ski Classics/Magnus Östh
