On Sunday, the Russian Roller Ski Championships commenced in Tyumen, but the event faced challenges with visibility and attendance. Despite the excitement among athletes, the competition was not broadcasted on any sports TV channels, leaving fans in the dark. Olympic champion Veronika Stepanova criticized the lack of public interest and urged the Russian Ski Racing Federation to rethink the format and venues of the competitions to attract a larger audience. Stepanova, who is currently preparing for motherhood, expressed that the sport needs to evolve to garner more attention beyond its small following.
The tournament kicked off with individual freestyle races, featuring women’s 15 km and men’s 20 km events. Maria Istomina showcased an impressive performance, finishing first in the women's race, while the weather conditions played a significant role in the athletes' performances. Istomina noted the warm weather affected her hydration levels, while Tatyana Sorina, returning from surgery, struggled to find her rhythm in the heat. The men's race saw a heavy downpour, creating a challenging environment for competitors. Notably, three-time Olympic champion Alexander Bolshunov faced difficulties, finishing in tenth place, which his coach downplayed as part of the natural progression towards the winter season.
As the season progresses, many young athletes are eager to challenge established stars like Bolshunov. Coach Yegor Sorin highlighted the potential of several skiers, including Saveliy Korostelev and Sergey Ardashev, indicating a competitive landscape as they prepare for upcoming races. The performances in Tyumen serve as a crucial stepping stone for these athletes, providing them with valuable experience against seasoned competitors.
