By Teemu Virtanen
Team Ragde Eiendom’s Emilie Fleten entered the Visma Ski Classics arena with high hopes, and she succeeded in her pursuit of greatness by being on the podium at Jizerska Padesatka. Additionally, this newcomer finished the season as the sixth best female skier in the Hertz Champion competition. For the next winter, she will be wearing Team Koteng’s yellow colors, and it wouldn’t be too much of a surprise to see her on the podium more often.
The soon-to-be 28-year-old Norwegian Pro Team Athlete grew up in Tromsø, Hemsedal, and she started ski racing when she was about 12 years old. She says that her parents loved outdoor sports, and for her cross-country skiing was a natural choice. Besides skiing, she loves hanging out with her friends eating chips and killing time with a good book or a movie. Her favorite book is “The Seven Sisters” by Lucinda Riley and her favorite movie is “Cold Mountain” by Anthony Minghella.
Let’s learn a bit more about this rising star of Visma Ski Classics.
How did you feel when you were asked to join Team Ragde Eiendom?
“I felt honored because it’s one of the best Pro Teams in Visma Ski Classics.”
How would you sum up Season X in your perspective?
“I had ups and downs this season, and I learned a lot! It was a season about learning, but at the same time it was important for me to prove that I can do well in long distances.”
What is your opinion about long distance skiing now after a season, and in particular Visma Ski Classics?
“It was so much fun. We had amazing races with a good atmosphere. I would like to see more races before Christmas.”
You managed to be on the podium once this winter. What did that performance prove to you, and what do you need to do in order to repeat the feat more often?
“I felt strong the week before that race, and it proved to me that on my good day I can aim for the podium. To do that again, I need to get stronger and hone my skills.”
Could you shed some light on your summer training?
“My summer training is varied but involves mostly running and roller-skiing. I train well, but I try to keep in mind that the most important training takes place in the fall.”
The women's field is getting stronger every year, and you, along with other fresh faces, gave it a great boost this winter. What are you expecting from the upcoming season, and what needs to be done to get even more new female skiers in the game?
“I think we will see new, strong girls in the game for the next season. I hope and believe that we can put more focus on the women’s competition, which is certainly good for the sport. Pro Teams need to expand by taking in more girls.”
In the long run, where do you see yourself as a skier?
“I hope that I will continue my progress and improve as a skier. Hopefully, I will reach a higher level and ski really fast.”
