There was something special in the air at Theodore Wirth Park Trailhead on a beautiful August day, almost exactly six months after Minneapolis had hosted the 2024 COOP FIS Cross Country Ski—the first time in nearly 25 years that it had been held on U.S. soil. The weather couldn’t have been better, and the local ski community was buzzing for what would be another once-in-a-lifetime moment: an on-foot training session with Team Birkie and the one and only Johannes Høsflot Klæbo.
Johannes Høsflot Klæbo dominated the Minneapolis sprint race in freestyle with a lightning-fast time of 2:54.24, once again showing why he’s the man to beat. If you’re a cross-country skiing fan, you already know his name. But if skiing isn’t on your radar, imagine him as the Tom Brady of XC Skiing.
At 27, Klæbo isn’t just breaking records—he’s setting a new standard for greatness on skis. Like Tom Brady in the NFL, Klæbo is a master of his craft. He’s precise, calculated, and knows exactly how to deliver when the pressure’s on. He’s already the youngest male ever to win the FIS Cross-Country World Cup, the Tour de Ski, and Olympic gold, making him a living legend. In Norway, and within the cross-country ski world, Klæbo isn’t just admired—he’s idolized.
So, when Klæbo showed up in Minneapolis on August 19th, it was a big deal. He wasn’t just here for a photo op—he connected with the local ski community, especially the youth, for an on-foot training session. Watching him work with the young skiers was inspiring; it was clear this was more than just a job for him. Every movement he demonstrated, every tip he shared, was filled with purpose and passion. For those lucky enough to be there, it felt like witnessing a masterclass in motion.
The day wrapped up with a Q&A with Klæbo and it was great seeing so many bright green NNF shirts in the crowd. His presentation felt more like a conversation than a formal event. Klæbo was engaging and down-to-earth, making everyone feel like they were part of something special. It’s not every day you get to ask a five-time Olympic gold medalist anything you want, and Klæbo certainly didn’t disappoint. He offered a glimpse into his training regimen, what fuels his drive to stay on top, and, amusingly enough, even his hair care routine. When someone asked, “What do you do about helmet hair?” Klæbo looked genuinely puzzled, as if it was the strangest question he’d ever been asked. But his quick, tongue-in-cheek response had the whole group laughing, showing that even a world-class athlete doesn’t take himself too seriously.
My daughter and I were incredibly lucky to meet both Johannes and Haakon. Their visit left a lasting impression on the local ski community, and for those who dream of skiing greatness, it was the kind of day that sparks lifelong memories. And hey, if Klæbo ever decides to make U.S.A. his home, I’m sure U.S. Ski and Snowboard wouldn’t mind seeing him join the team one day!
For now, though, we’re just grateful for this rare opportunity to meet and learn from one of the greatest cross-country skiers in history.
Thomas R. Pearce, MBA
National Nordic Foundation – Vice Chair
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