World Record holder Jenny Larsson will be one of the main attractions when the first-ever Skierg Open takes place this Sunday at the Craft Arena in Kosta, Sweden.

The 29-year-old Lager 157 Ski Team athlete, who set the women’s 5000m SkiErg World Record with a time of 18:32.6, goes into the event as the top favorite in the women’s class.

The competition format includes qualification heats with ten athletes per start, where the fastest skiers progress to the final. Both qualifications and finals will be contested over 5000 meters.

Larsson says there was never any doubt when she heard about the new initiative earlier this year.

“We heard about it in the spring that it might be organized, so we’re going there with the whole team. It’s an initiative that we support, and I’m looking forward to it,” she told Langd.se.

Also Read: Jenny Larsson sets a new World Record

Aiming at her own World Record

Despite a demanding training block leading up to the competition, Larsson hopes to challenge her own personal best.

“It’s been a tough camp, and I’ve felt a bit tired this week, and now it’s going to be a tough weekend as well. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t going for it. I always want to beat myself, and in this case, it happens to be the World Record,” she explained.

Strong challengers on the start line

Among her main competitors, Larsson points to two Team Engcon Pro Team athletes.

“I don’t know exactly who will line up, but I’ve heard that Anniken Gjerde Alnæs and Hanna Lodin will be there, and they will be dangerous,” she said.

Read More – SkiErg Open: Sweden’s first official SkiErg competition

Still, Larsson believes her SkiErg strengths give her an edge.

“I know I’m good on the SkiErg, I know my height benefits me. If I don’t win on Sunday, I’ll be very disappointed.”

Organizers have hinted at a lively atmosphere with music and effects inside the Craft Arena. Larsson believes the setting could provide an extra push.

“If it becomes more of a happening, I think it can absolutely help. In competition, you always lift yourself that little bit extra,” she added.

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