These "coffee athletes" from Norway and the Czech Republic have been part of the Ski Classics circuit for several years. After securing 10th place in the Pro Team Competition during Season XVI, Team Kaffebryggeriet DRIV now looks ahead to the upcoming winter with renewed energy and the clear goal of stepping onto the podium.
The team features seven Pro Team athletes, three women and four men, ready to fight for points and glory this season. For Season XVII, the squad includes six Norwegian athletes and one from the Czech Republic: Sandra Schutzova (1991), Ingrid Bergene Aabrekk (2002), Helene Ekrheim Haugen (2004), Vetle Thyli (1989), Fredrik Helgestad (1997), Henrik Haugland Syverinsen (1996), and Haakon Fossum Holden (1993).
"Team Kaffebryggeriet DRIV is a Norwegian long-distance ski team competing in Ski Classics. The team is entering its second season in partnership with DRIV, continuing a long-standing collaboration with Kaffebryggeriet - a dedicated supporter since day one, six years ago. Backed by several exciting new partners and more than 100 recreational skiers through the affiliated Team Kaffebryggeriet DRIV Mosjonist, the team is stronger than ever," says the Pro Team Director, Matias Noren, and adds:
"With a blend of experience, hunger, and an uncompromising training culture, the goal is crystal clear: to fight for podium finishes in every single race of the upcoming Ski Classics season. The team consists of dedicated athletes who push each other - both up and forward."
For Ski Classics Season XVII, the Norwegian Pro Team aims high: “This underdog team based in Norway is not here to take part - we are here to take over,” concludes Noren.
Athlete Highlights & Ranking
Fredrik Helgestad is one of the team's leaders, ranked #34 on the Ski Classics Ranking and a proven top-level Pro Tour performer, with a personal best 7th place at last season's Gronklitt ITT. Henrik Haugland Syverinsen has been a steady contributor as well, currently listed #35 on Ski Classics, highlighted by a 9th-place finish at the same event.
Haakon Fossum Holden brings experience and reliability to the lineup, sitting #41 in the SC Ranking and boasting a top 4 finish at last season's La Venosta ITT. Vetle Thyli is the team's most experienced athlete and a consistent points scorer, ranked #54, despite only competing in three Pro Tour events last season.
On the women's side, Sandra Schutzova is the team's international frontrunner, consistently finishing in the top 15, currently ranked #71. After claiming victory at the Ski Classics Challengers event Energamo Lipnolopet in early October, the Czech skier has shown she can challenge for top 8 results when conditions align.
Ingrid Bergene Aabrekk continues her development in the Youth category, recording a top 30 finish at Birkebeinerrennet last winter. Helene Ekrheim Haugen enters the Ski Classics circuit this season as a promising young talent -- her FIS biography and recent results underline her rapid progression in the sport.
