Musgrave wins big event in Norway

ABERDEENSHIRE cross-country skier Andrew Musgrave put his disappointment at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver behind him to claim an impressive victory on his return to competitive action.

The 20-year-old claimed the biggest prize of his career by defeating 160 home competitors to win the Norwegian junior championship 10km free technique race.

The victory was a welcome tonic following a frustrating time in Vancouver where he finished 51st in the 30km pursuit, 55th in 15km and 58th in the individual sprint.

Musgrave said: “I think the block of racing during the Olympics has put me into great shape. It’s just a shame I was not in this form two weeks ago.”

This success was even more sweet for the skier, having opted to train in Hovden in Norway last August following a recommendation from Norway’s junior national team coach Roar Hjelmeset.

Musgrave, who celebrated his birthday last weekend, was competing as a guest after gaining vital experience in Vancouver.

He finished first in the race, but the title of Norwegian junior champion had to go to a national, in this case Finn-Hagen Krogh who came second 0.2 seconds behind.