Skier Niko Anttola’s season may be over. The season included defeating Iivo Niskanen.
Niko Anttolan, 21, was the name on the lips of many Finnish skiing followers after last season. The golden nugget of Finnish cross-country skiing anchors the Finnish men’s first relay medal (silver) in 14 years.
Anttola’s season was otherwise brilliant, as he celebrated the championship and silver medal at the World Junior Championships. In the summer, the super talent received an invitation to the Finnish A national team.
However, the 2023–2024 season was difficult for Anttola. He’s had a lot of health problems, and he won’t be at this weekend’s Äänekoski SM skis either because of illness.
– Niko is not in such a condition that it would be worthwhile to compete in skiing at the moment. Thoughts are transferred to the future, the father coaching Anttola Marko Anttola commented to Urheilu.
In two weeks, the last Finnish Cup competitions of the season will be skied in Rovaniemi. Marko Anttola admits that the season might already be over for Niko Anttola.
– Can be. The next two weeks will show that. Nothing has been decided yet, but of course it would be good if he could go skiing. Whether it’s worth it is another matter.
Defeated Niskanen
In terms of results, Anttola’s season also includes great successes. For example, a month ago at the Suomen Cup in Kuopio, he celebrated the victory of the free intermediate start race and did other things Iivo from Niska 14 seconds.
He was second in the Vantaa Championship Cross mat Hakolan after. At the World Cup in Lahti, he was 19th in the 20 km intermediate start race.
– Fortunately, things have gone well at times, but then there have been troubles again. I had to pass and pick up speed again.
The reason for the ragged season is respiratory problems.
– The condition has been good in itself, but other troubles have ruined the result. He hasn’t been able to.
into the top 20
In the last training season, conscript service brought its own spice. Next winter, Anttola will be able to start with a fairly empty table.
However, the duo wants to find some clarity as to where the constant health problems are coming from.
– They should be removed from the agenda. Otherwise, I don’t see any reason why it wouldn’t go next season.
In Trondheim, Norway, Anttola has the opportunity to compete in the second World Championships of his career. The young talent advances with realistic goals.
– Should be able to stabilize the level in the top 20. It’s not worth applying for any top 10 places on a regular basis yet. Places 10–20 are achievable, Marko Anttola sees.