Three reasons why Eirik Bye loves skiing

“I think skiing is good because I can be out in nature.”

In February 2017, Norway’s Eirik Bye set himself the target of a medal at the World Para Nordic Skiing Championships.

He ended up winning not one but two medals in Finsterau, Germany – the first time he has finished on an individual podium. He secured silver in the cross-country open relay with teammates Nils-Erik Ulset and Hakon Olsrud. He also won bronze in the men’s long distance cross-country visually impaired with his guide, Arvid Nelson.

Having started working with school friend Nelson in the 2015-16 season, it is clear that their close relationship is starting to pay dividends in an important season for winter athletes.

With the season nearing its end at the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games Test Event and World Cup from Friday (10 March), Bye will be hoping to retain his top-five status.

Here he reveals why he loves skiing so much:

Training

“I think skiing is good because I can be out in nature. I have a cabin in Sjusjoen near Lillehammer. When I am at my cabin, I’m in nice surroundings and fresh air. I started skiing there as a young boy, that is why it is one of my favourite things about skiing.”

Experiences

“Through training camps and competitions I get a lot of exciting experiences. I get to discover new places, trainers, training methods and cultures. These are the things I really appreciate about cross-country skiing.

Being part of a team

“I’m glad to be part of the Norwegian team. It’s nice to feel that I can contribute to the team in both training and competitions. We are a strong team. We train a lot together and lift each other up. We have a good culture and that is motivating.”

The PyeongChang 2018 Test Event will also act as a World Para Nordic Skiing World Cup between 10-15 March. The World Cup Finals then take place swiftly afterwards in Saporro, Japan, from 18-22 March.

Live results from both competitions will be available at World Para Nordic Skiing’s website.