Lina Korsgren skied her last race as a Pro Tour skier the past weekend in Ylläs-Levi, and now she is looking forward to new challenges as a Pro Team director of Team Ramudden.
Three-time Vasaloppet winner and overall winner of Visma Ski Classics Season XI shares her insights of what pro skiing has given to her, what she looks forward the most outside of skiing, and what life lessons she will take with her when she transitions from an athlete to a Pro Team director.
You have had a pretty amazing and successful career. When you go over the memories, what do you cherish the most?
“There are many fond memories from my career, but the feeling when everything is right and you go to your utmost ability is awesome!”
What achievement are you the proudest of?
“It’s hard to choose one thing I’m proud of. I would say that it is a mix of big victories, how I have developed as a skier and human being. And I am also very proud of how we have built up the world’s best long-distance ski team and got to closely follow the team and the riders’ development.”
What do you think has been your greatest strength as a skier?
“I am patient and never give up. I am also good at seeing that there is something good in all achievements, even if it is not always enough for victories.”
What has been the most challenging part of athlete life, specifically long-distance skiing?
“It is difficult to relax and be an “ordinary person.” As a professional skier, you always need to think about what is best for your training and performance and make decisions based on that can be hard.”
What race has been your favorite in Visma Ski Classics in all these years, and why?
“The monuments for sure! Marcialonga, Jizerská, Vasaloppet, and Birken. These are competitions with a lot of history and character. My three Vasaloppet victories mean a lot to me, and they will always have a special place with me.”
It is exciting that you will continue as a Pro Team director. You have a very strong team. How does it feel about moving from the athlete and team leader role to a Pro Team director?
“I love what skiing has given me. It feels fantastic to be able to continue working with skiing and be involved and contribute to the sport with my experience.”
What pro skiing has taught you, and what lesson will you take to life and as a Pro Team director?
“It is important to see everyone regardless of achievement. Everyone in a team is involved and contributes. The most important thing is to have a good atmosphere in the team to be able to succeed with good results.”
What are you looking forward to the most in your life after pro skiing?
“To feel more free and not to “chase” for anything all the time. And, of course, have more time to spend with family and friends.”
