History Made in Women’s Cross-Country Relay

Courtesy Australian Olympic Team

Rosie Fordham, Maddie Hooker, Phoebe Cridland and Ellie Søhol Lie made history today in the women’s 4x7.5km Cross-Country relay, becoming the first ever Australian Cross-Country relay team to compete at a Winter Olympic Games. 

Battling soft snow and wet conditions, the team took on the demanding relay format consisting of two classic technique legs followed by two freestyle legs. The Aussie team finished up 14th position out of 19 starting teams.  

Cridland was overjoyed when reflecting on the team’s experience. 

“It was just super special. I think we all came into today with an extra pep in our step knowing that it was going to be an historic day. And then to be able to finish now, we're just really elated.” 

Fordham also acknowledged the challenging conditions faced throughout the race. 

“We fought so hard to make it all the way to the end. And you just see even though people crashed and even though maybe things didn't go exactly to plan, everybody's fighting as hard as they can because we all want that moment where we cross the line together.” 

An eventful race saw Sweden lose the early lead following several crashes, opening the door for Norway to take control and secure a dominant victory. Sweden crossed the line 50 seconds later in second place, followed by Finland in third. 

With no men’s relay on the Olympic program, the Australian Cross-Country athletes will now have a few days to recover before returning to competition for the team sprint on February 18. 

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