As the 3 Zinnen Ski Marathon approaches this morning, the skiing world is coming with predictions about who will dominate the next Ski Classics Pro Tour event. We have pointed out the top four men and women contenders for the race. Here’s an in-depth look at these Pro Team athletes and what makes them the favorites to watch.

3 Zinnen Ski Marathon – Men’s Category: A Blend of Endurance, Speed, and Tactical Mastery

Kasper Staadas

Kasper Staadas, Team Ragde Charge, has emerged as a force in long-distance skiing thanks to his remarkable endurance and technique. His consistent top-tier placements in recent events are a testament to his preparation and skill. Kasper is currently the overall leader with almost 100 points ahead of 2^nd classified.

This season, the Norwegian athlete has already won a race at Bad Gastein and conquered second place at La Venosta. Staadas’ upward trajectory and familiarity with similar terrains make him a prime candidate for the top spot.

Emil Persson

Emil Persson, Lager 157 Ski Team, has not started the season like the previous year, but it is possible that the Christmas break has given him the opportunity to find his best shape again. Despite being classified as the 21st position in the Yellow bib competition, Emil is strong enough to fight for victory. Moreover, the Swedish skier knows the terrain well since he won the Pustertaler Ski Marathon last year.

Also Read – After a difficult start: “I’ve had a good feeling these days”

Andreas Nygaard

Andreas Nygaard’s tactical brilliance has often been his ace in the hole, allowing him to make intelligent, race-winning moves. Despite a mixed season, his experience and strategic thinking cannot be underestimated. In a race that’s likely to be closely contested, Nygaard’s strategic moves could be the difference.

Moreover, the Team Ragde Charge’s athlete has already won a race this season – La Venosta Criterium – and he is probably getting in peak shape for the most important races of the season.

Amund Riege

Amund Riege, Team Ramudden, has been showing his resilience and strong performance during the last races. Currently, the 3^rd classified in the Yellow bib competition, Amund Riege is very consistent, and the long distance (62 km) suits his capabilities. This might be his opportunity to finally win a Ski Classics Pro Tour event.

3 Zinnen Ski Marathon – Women’s Category: Consistency, Pace-Setting, and Technical Expertise

Emilie Fleten

Emilie Fleten’s consistent performances across various distances make her a top favorite. With recent podium finishes and victories, she has demonstrated her readiness to vie for the top spot. Her ability to handle pressure and maintain steady performances is likely to play in her favor.

Emilie Fleten, Team Ramudden, is the current Yellow and Sprint bib competition leader despite being closely chased by Ida Dahl.

Ida Dahl

Ida Dahl, Team Engcon, finished the last race with a return to victory. Currently she is the 2^nd classified in the Yellow bib competition but only 1 point away from the leader. This might be the opportunity for the Swedish Pro Team athlete to return to the leading position. Last Season, she was the winner of the Pustertaler Ski Marathon.

Sofie Elebro

Sofie Elebro, Team Eksjöhus, has been one of the surprises of the current season. The Swedish skier is in an upward phase of her sporting career and has been able to fight for the top positions. Longer distances suit her well, and she is currently in 3rd place in the Yellow bib competition.

Karolina Hedenström

Karolina Hedenström, Lager 157 Ski Team, might be the surprise of the day. Despite being relatively young, this Swedish skier has already shown her strong capabilities for long-distance skiing. Leading the Youth competition and fighting for the top 5 overall, Karolina is one of the most likely skiers to reach the podium.

The Unpredictable Nature of Long-Distance Skiing

While ProXCskiing.com offers insights, the unpredictable nature of Ski Classics Pro Tour events always leaves room for surprises. The 3 Zinnen Ski Marathon, with its blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, is shaping up to be a thrilling display of endurance, skill, and strategy. As these top contenders prepare to battle it out, one thing is certain: the race will be an exhilarating spectacle for fans and a demanding challenge for the athletes.

Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XV

The Season XV of Ski Classics Pro Tour consists of 15 events on 11 event weekends in 6 different countries. The season started in Bad Gastein, Austria, on December 9, 2023, and will end in Norway with the 100km Ski Classics Grand Finale Janteloppet on April 13, 2024.

Next up is the 3 Zinnen Ski Marathon in Italy on January 13, 2024. The event marks the fifth Ski Classics Pro Tour stage of Season XV.

Read More: 3 Zinnen Ski Marathon this Saturday in Italy

Ski Classics Pro Tour Season XV (2023/2024)

• Event 1: December 9, 2023 – Bad Gastein PTT, Austria, 13km
• Event 2: December 10, 2023 – Bad Gastein Criterium, Austria, 36km
• Event 3: December 16, 2023 – La Venosta Criterium, Italy, 37km 
• Event 4: December 17, 2023 – La Venosta ITT, Italy, 10km
• Event 5: January 13, 2024 – 3 Zinnen Ski Marathon, Italy, 62km
• Event 6: January 20, 2024 – Engadin La Diagonela, Switzerland, 56km
• Event 7: January 28, 2024 – Marcialonga, Italy, 70km
• Event 8: February 11, 2024 – Jizerská50, Czech Republic, 50km
• Event 9: February 17, 2024 – Grönklitt Classic, Sweden, 60km
• Event 10: February 18, 2024 – Grönklitt ITT, Sweden, 13km
• Event 11: March 3, 2024 – Vasaloppet, Sweden, 90km
• Event 12: March 16, 2024 – Birkebeinerrennet, Norway, 54km
• Event 13: April 6, 2024 – Reistadløpet, Norway, 50km
• Event 14: April 7, 2024 – Summit 2 Senja, Norway, 60km
• Event 15: April 13, 2024 – Ski Classics Grand Finale – Janteloppet, Norway, 100km

More information about the Ski Classics Pro Tour can be found at skiclassics.com