Elvira Öberg was hesitant to start.
The cold had already kept her out of a competition weekend.
She decided late – and then she shocked herself.
– It is a completely new level for me, she tells DN.
Elvira Öberg is one of the winter’s big success skiers. She had a huge breakthrough last season, and has only continued that momentum this season, racking up podiums and successful races. It will also soon be time for the World Cup, which is why many people were worried last week.
Wonderful comeback
Elvira Öberg then had a cold, and was forced to withdraw from the competitions, and it was not exactly optimal considering that the Biathlon World Cup is fast approaching. Elvira Öberg was even hesitant to start Thursday’s sprint in Antholz, but just hours before the start of the competition she announced that she felt healthy enough. And what a success it was.
Elvira Öberg shot full for the fourth time this winter, and in the end she finished third, just nine seconds behind the winner Dorothea Wierer.
– I didn’t think this when I woke up this morning. I was unsure about the start and made a late decision. I sent a text message to Johannes (coach Lukas) at half past nine that I’m driving, she tells DN.
READ MORE: The expert’s verdict on the Swedish World Cup squad – now judges Stina Nilsson: “Haven’t shown that it works”
“Is brand new”
For Elvira Öberg, who is still a young skater, it means a lot to bounce back like this. That she, despite barely competing and having an illness in her body, can shoot fully and get on the podium.
– That I continue to maintain this level of shooting and can shoot full sprint any day… it’s a completely new level for me, she says.
And every podium, and top position, means a lot in the fight for the overall World Cup. Currently, Elvira Öberg is 113 points behind the leader, the French Julia Simon.
– Very much, every point counts and it will be tight in the end.
READ MORE: Elvira Öberg’s wonderful success after great uncertainty – takes strong third place in the comeback: “Very good”