Olympic ski champion Ingvild Östberg has received important support from Finnish ex-swimmer, Anu Koivisto-Mörki.
EC medalist in swimming Anu Koivisto-Mörk the Norwegian skiing star has played an important role by Ingvild Östberg32, in a career-saving operation.
In 2018–2019, Östberg won the Olympic relay gold and a whopping five World Cup medals. Then it all came crashing down.
The Norwegian star suffered from several injuries and was out of competition for almost two years. He tried to come back last season, but the winter lasted three World Cups.
Östberg himself has said that nutrition and training were not balanced.
Koivisto-Mörk, who also worked as a sports nutrition expert at the Norwegian Olympic Committee, started supporting Östberg in April this year.
– Anu is my nutritionist. He has helped me find the right balance between exercise and nutrition. It has been a big help, says Östberg.
– I am grateful that he helps me.
Ingvild Östberg is ready to return to the World Cup. PASI LEISMA
In 2001, Koivisto-Mörk won European Championship silver in the 50-meter backstroke and bronze in the 200-meter backstroke. The time of the latter race, 2:07.10, is still the short-track Finnish record.
Koivisto-Mörk represented Finland at the Summer Olympics in 1996 and 2000. He is married to a former Norwegian swimmer Börge Mörkin with. The couple lives in Norway.
According to Östberg, the cooperation with the Finn works perfectly.
– Anu is really kind. He gives direct feedback and says exactly what he thinks. We can talk about everything between us. We are very honest with each other. He wishes me the best.
Patience is required
Anu Koivisto (on the left) won EC medals in swimming. EPA/AOP
Östberg has competed in two weekends this season: in the opening races of the Norwegian season in Beitostölen and in the World Cup start in Ruka.
In Beitostölen, he was third in the 10 km traditional race and fourth in the freestyle. Ruka’s traditional top ten ranking was 16th.
Kuusamo’s skiing is a step up, as Östberg was 33rd on the same route last year.
– The result is just fine. Much better than the same race last year. At the same time, I think that I could have done some things better technically. I am happy and unhappy at the same time.
– My condition is quite good. I know I can be better.
Östberg appreciates the Finn’s help. PASI LEISMA
There is room at the top of the world Therese Johaugin after termination. Östberg raises Sweden, among others, as successful candidates Frida Karlsson and Ebba Andersson and Norway Anne Kjersti Kalvån.
– You have to train hard and eat right. There are no pop arts to beat the Swedes.
Östberg’s main goal for the season is the World Championships. Based on his past years, he knows that you can’t rush when chasing success.
– I hope I’ll be in top shape in February. Now you have to be patient and go one weekend at a time.