With the iconic Olympic rings as their backdrop, siblings Sondre and Ukaleq Slettemark stand together, brimming with joy against the crisp Italian winter air. In this remarkable moment during the Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, they send a heartfelt message back to Greenland.
“It’s the coolest feeling in the whole world,” Sondre beams, reflecting on his journey to a commendable 54th place in the men’s pursuit start.
For these young athletes, the event transcends mere rankings or scores. It’s about showcasing their proud Greenlandic heritage on one of the grandest stages in sports. “Being from Greenland and being able to display our flag to such a vast audience is incredible—it’s something we take great pride in,” Ukaleq adds, capturing the essence of their experience.
After a series of intense competitions filled with adrenaline and high stakes, Sondre and Ukaleq take a moment not to dissect their times but to express gratitude. “It’s amazing to have so many people from Greenland cheering us on,” Ukaleq says, his smile radiating warmth.
As Sondre acknowledges the support flooding in from home, he highlights a shared sentiment: “We’re competing under the Danish flag, but we truly feel we represent Greenland in every way.”
Back home, the cheers resonate throughout the nation, with messages and congratulations pouring in from coast to coast. Their achievements elevate their performances beyond mere athletics; they narrate a Greenlandic story of resilience, community, and dreams that stretch far beyond the ice sheet.
“We hope many will continue to follow us in future World Cups, and that we can inspire more people to take up biathlon or winter sports,” Ukaleq enthusiastically shares.
Sondre chimes in with a hearty laugh, “In any case, I highly recommend the Olympics!”
Standing together in front of the five rings—the emblem of the world’s largest sporting community—Sondre and Ukaleq embody the spirit of their heritage, not just as athletes but as inspirational figures for their homeland. As the Olympic flame flickers in Italy, the pride and support for them blaze brightly back home in Greenland.