By Johan Trygg
John Kristian Dahl is one of Visma Ski Classics’ legends with his five victories. Three in Vasaloppet and one in Birkenbeinerrennet and La Sgambeda.
The 39-year-old Norwegian made his final year on the Pro Tour during season IX, and a lot has changed for John Kristian since then. In June he started his new career as a Banker in Mo I Rana, a city 480 km north of Trondheim where he lived during his skiing career.
“It’s a great place with beautiful nature and nice winters with good snow conditions. The whole family thrives here,” says John Kristian.
John Kristian Dahl has a long skiing career to lock back on. As a World Cup athlete, he has eleven podium places in sprint between 2004 and 2011, including two victories. In 2013, he did Vasaloppet for the first time and finished in 7th place. The following winter, season IV, he finished 3rd in La Diagonela, second in Marcialonga and won Vasaloppet.
“Of course, the triumphs in Vasaloppet are special memories. Especially the first one, which was surprising to me,” John Kristian explains.
After many years as a professional skier, a lot has changed for him lately when he gets to use his education in economics.
“In June, I started as a consultant at a bank here in Mo i Rana and my wife Ingrid works at the hospital.”
Together with their children Jakob 7 years and Eira four years, the family thrives in their new hometown.
“The nature is beautiful and good winters feels good to move a little further north. I have my roots in Kirkenes, which is even further north.”
Kirkenes is located in the far northeast of Norway near the border to Russia, not far from Murmansk.
Even though John Kristian focus more on work and family today he still enjoys exercising.
“I’m adapting to a life as a recreational skier and it’s a challenge when you have been training on a high level for many years. I still enjoy being active and look forward to being a part of the cross country scene here in Mo I Rana. I will develop and support young athletes from the area.”
He also plans to participate in some local ski races this winter. We might see John Kristian at some Ski Classics events this winter, helping his former Pro Team, Team Koteng.
“I went to Toblach-Cortina last winter and helped with ski testing together with my former teammates. It was fun, and I would love to do it again if I have the opportunity.”
John Kristian did not just test skis. He also participated in the race and finished in 85th place. In the top picture, you can see a happy John Kristian just before the start.
John Kristian keeps in touch with his former teammates and follows their progress for season XI.
“It looks promising. The team won the 12-hour relay Blink Team Classic recently,” he concludes.
