In a somber announcement, the Norwegian Ski Federation shared the devastating news of Audun Groenvold’s passing, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the 49-year-old skier. Mr. Groenvold, who clinched a bronze medal in men’s ski cross at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, was reportedly outside enjoying a family getaway when the tragic incident occurred.
Tove Moe Dyrhaug, president of the federation, expressed her condolences, stating, "Norwegian skiing has lost a prominent figure, who has meant so much to both the alpine and freestyle communities. There will be a big void after Audun." The federation remembers him as a trailblazer in Norwegian freestyle and ski cross, transitioning from a member of the national Alpine ski team to earning accolades in freestyle skiing.
His accomplishments include a podium finish as a World Cup Alpine skier in 1999, finishing third in a downhill race in Sierra Nevada, Spain. Additionally, Mr. Groenvold secured a bronze medal at the 2005 world championships and claimed the overall ski cross cup in 2007.
After retiring from competition post-2010 Olympics due to health concerns, Groenvold took on roles as a national team coach and television commentator. The Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation notes that he faced various physical challenges towards the end of his athletic career.
Heartbroken, Groenvold’s wife, Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, shared her grief in a heartfelt Facebook post, reflecting on their two-decade-long relationship and the suddenness of his loss. “What started with a lovely summer vacation ended with you being struck by lightning while we were out at our cabin. The loss of you is enormous,” she wrote. Alongside her, Mr. Groenvold is survived by their three children, as the skiing world and beyond mourn the loss of such a significant figure.
Tove Moe Dyrhaug, president of the federation, expressed her condolences, stating, "Norwegian skiing has lost a prominent figure, who has meant so much to both the alpine and freestyle communities. There will be a big void after Audun." The federation remembers him as a trailblazer in Norwegian freestyle and ski cross, transitioning from a member of the national Alpine ski team to earning accolades in freestyle skiing.
His accomplishments include a podium finish as a World Cup Alpine skier in 1999, finishing third in a downhill race in Sierra Nevada, Spain. Additionally, Mr. Groenvold secured a bronze medal at the 2005 world championships and claimed the overall ski cross cup in 2007.
After retiring from competition post-2010 Olympics due to health concerns, Groenvold took on roles as a national team coach and television commentator. The Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation notes that he faced various physical challenges towards the end of his athletic career.
Heartbroken, Groenvold’s wife, Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, shared her grief in a heartfelt Facebook post, reflecting on their two-decade-long relationship and the suddenness of his loss. “What started with a lovely summer vacation ended with you being struck by lightning while we were out at our cabin. The loss of you is enormous,” she wrote. Alongside her, Mr. Groenvold is survived by their three children, as the skiing world and beyond mourn the loss of such a significant figure.
