Gabriel Strid embarks on his third Ski Classics season and his second year with Exsitec Ski Team. He believes the Pro Team has progressed as the season kicks off on Saturday.

“My feeling is undoubtedly that the team has taken a big step forward. Klas Nilsson has joined as the Pro Team Director, bringing extensive experience and strong results. I believe he will help everyone elevate their performance,” says Gabriel Strid to Langd.se.

How has your pre-season been?

“It’s been going well. I’ve placed even more focus on specific double pole training and have been able to train a lot. I’ve simply done a good job.”

Gabriel feels that he has improved every year in his career so far. He hopes this trend continues this season.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always moved forward and haven’t had a dip. Additionally, this year I’ve paid more attention to small details outside of training,” he says.

Can you provide an example of what these details are?

“Among other things, I’ve gained better control over my equipment. I spent a week in Bruksvallarna, and with the help of Bruksvallarnas Sportcenter, we tested my entire ski fleet. Now I’m more confident in what works and what doesn’t,” he explains.

He started the season in Idre with the Ford Smart Energy Cup.

“It felt okay in Idre, but I got good feedback. I usually have a slow start, so it was good to get three races under my belt.”

What are your thoughts ahead of the season premiere on Saturday?

“I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve never been so eager to get started.”

What are your goals for the season?

“To take further steps in my development. I’d like to be with the lead group all the way to the finish in several races. Additionally, I want to improve my result in Vasaloppet. Last year, I was 45^th, so my hope is to gain a few more positions,” he concludes.

Read also: All you need to know ahead of Bad Gastein weekend

The Season XV of Ski Classics Pro Tour consists of 15 events on 11 event weekends in 6 different countries. 

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, 36km 
• 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