UNNIA
The Greenlandic juniors delivered solid performances at the World Championships in cross-country skiing.
Photo: Greenland Ski Association
After a whirlwind competition, cross-country skiers Sasja Hendriksen, Qunaaq Jensen, and Elias Nordahl have returned to Greenland, proud representatives of their nation at the Junior World Championships. Their participation spanned various disciplines, showcasing the depth of talent within the team.
Competing in events like the sprint, 10 km, 20 km, and the relay, each athlete displayed remarkable skill and determination, often achieving personal bests in what proved to be a milestone event. Among them, Marika Magnussen truly stood out. She secured the 46th spot in a sprint field of 79 competitors and finished 54th out of 75 in the 10 km race—an impressive performance that speaks volumes of her hard work.
In the relay, the athletes joined forces with two Danish competitors, forming a mixed team that fostered international camaraderie. This collaboration not only enriched their experience but allowed the Greenlandic skiers to test their mettle at a competitive level.
This marks the first time in 13 years that Greenland has had representation at the Junior World Championships in cross-country skiing—a significant achievement in its own right.
National coach Martin Møller emphasized the importance of this milestone. “The participation is the result of long-term development work,” he commented in a press release from the Greenland Ski Association. “Both the association and local clubs have focused heavily on nurturing youth skiing, backed by immense volunteer efforts from coaches. It’s rewarding to see our hard work beginning to pay off, and we are committed to furthering this positive trajectory.”
The Junior World Championships not only highlight the progress of Greenlandic cross-country skiing but also ignite hope for the future of the sport in the region.