Sofia Henriksson, a former Swedish A-team skier, is beginning her season in Olos/Muonio as part of her preparation for the crucial season opener at home in Bruksvallarna. Her major goal this season is the 10km classic race at the World Championships in Trondheim.

On Friday, competitions kick off in the Finnish town of Muonio. Known as FIS Oloksen Tykkikisat, which translates to “FIS Oloksen Snow Cannon Race,” the event features a star-studded lineup with top skiers from around the world. The races can be watched live on SC Play.

The story continues below.

Olos/Muonio Ski Race Weekend – Watch Live on SC Play!

Watch the complete weekend live streamed on SC Play, with exclusive rights in all countries except Finland. You can follow the events live on SC Play every race day from 8:45 CET with English commentaries from Kjell-Erik Kristiansen and Katerina Paul on Friday and Teemu Virtanen and Katerina Paul on Saturday and Sunday!

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Henriksson, 30, is entering the season opener in Muonio with a clear plan.

“The races in Muonio will be a dress rehearsal to shake off the opening nerves. Last year, I participated in some World Cup events, but I’m far from guaranteed a spot on any team. Performing well at Bruks is important to me, so competing here in Muonio is good preparation,” says Henriksson to Langd.se.

“I also raced in Muonio last year. It’s quite close to home, or at least by our standards—it’s just 350 km from Piteå.”

Snow conditions in Sweden have been inconsistent, with some areas forced to close tracks due to warm weather. The Swedish national team had to cut their camp in Vålådalen short, and Muonio has also seen fluctuating temperatures.

“It’s been warm here in Muonio too. We arrived on Friday, and despite the conditions, it’s come together quite well during our time here,” says Henriksson.

Henriksson had a strong performance last year, finishing fourth in the 10km classic race. This season, she’s coming off a solid summer of training.

“I had a few minor issues, but overall, training has gone very, very well, which is exciting,” emphasizes the 30-year-old.

When we spoke with Henriksson, she was on a rest day but still spent time on the ski tracks, doing a bit of photography.

“It’s just a hobby, but I’m going to relax now and do some photo editing,” says Henriksson.

Getting older by the day

Henriksson is part of Team Bauhaus but races for Piteå Elit. Last season, she had the opportunity to compete in the Tour de Ski and several World Cup events, with her best finishes being two 14th places in Trondheim and Lahti. She has set her sights high, with the season’s ultimate goal being the World Championships in Trondheim.

“It would be amazing to represent Sweden at a championship. After last season, it feels like a realistic goal, even if it’s a challenge,” Henriksson explains.

“There’s a 10km classic race, which I have a bit of a soft spot for, especially since I did well in that distance last year in Trondheim.”

“Making the World Cup team is tough with only six spots, and at the World Championships, only four can race, so it’s extremely competitive. And I know I’m not getting any younger.”

Facts Olos/Muonio Ski Race Weekend

• When: Friday, November 15 to Sunday, November 17
• Who: Elite traditional cross-country skiers – women and men
• Where: Olos/Muonio, Finland
• What: Olos/Muonio Ski Race Weekend

The Start Lists can be found HERE

Friday, November 15, 2024 – Sprint 1.4km C (More details can be found here)
Sprint Qualification, 9:00 CET
Sprint Heats, from 11:00 CET

Saturday, November 16, 2024 – 10km C (More details can be found here)
Classic 10 km, 9:00 CET

Sunday, November 17, 2024 – 10km F (More details can be found here)
Freestyle 10 km, 9:00 CET

Also Read: Watch Olos/Muonio Ski Race Weekend live on SC Play!

Are you interested in traditional cross-country skiing? Click HERE and read more about it.