Norwegian relay gold in O Championships

For the first time since 2005, this Sunday, Norway ran to victory in the men’s relay in the orienteering world championships in Stromstad.

Magne Dæhli made the target as the Norwegian anchorman 1:54 minutes ahead of Switzerland. Bronze went to Sweden.

Thus, a small barrier has been broken. Norway has had four relay silvers since the men’s triumph in 2005, but no gold medals. Eleven years later, Norway is finally back on top of the podium.

For Carl Godager Kaas, gold tasted particularly good. The 34-year-old has taken part in the relays which gave four silvers since 2010.

“It’s lovely to finally succeed. It was also a solid run. What a wonderful feeling,” said Kaas.

Kaas alone earned the Norwegian team their lead of 54 seconds at the first exchange. Freshly  minted champion Olav Lundanes had increased the distance of 1.48 minutes by the time Dæhli attacked anchor leg.

Kaas, Lundanes, and Dæhli were ecstatic. Kaas took out his cell phone and took a selfie with himself and the other golden boy heading towards the goal.

It was Norway’s eleventh relay gold in Men’s O Championships since 1966.

 

Source: NTB scanpix / Norway Today