Katie Calder Takes Bronze At The Swiss National Championships (26-Jan-09)

Ski NZ, Lake Wanaka, NZ, Jan 26, 2009 - New Zealand's top cross country skier

New Zealand’s top cross country skier Katie Calder, 28, Tauranga, yesterday posted third at the Swiss National Championships in Trun, Switzerland.

Finishing only three seconds behind the winner in the ten kilometer skate, Calder was up against a strong field including the 2008 US Super Tour winner, Karin Camenisch of Suitzerland whom placed fourth.

“This is a big event in terms of quality, so it is another awesome result for Katie,” said Head Coach Alastair Smaill.

After coming down with a head cold last week and also tearing a muscle in her forearm, Calder went into the race cautiously.

“I was pretty surprised after getting the time split at five kilometers that I was leading the race,” said Calder. “I kept the lead until the very last kilometer but then unfortunately lost a few seconds after a sketchy downhill.”

With only a few weeks to go, Calder is moving from strength to strength as she tapers towards the World Championships in Liberec, CZE.

“I have two more races this week before the World Championships,” said Calder. “I’m hoping consolidate and build on my current form and get my arm healed up in time to post some more solid results.”

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