Audun Groenvold, the highly-regarded former national Alpine skier and ski cross competitor, died suddenly. On Tuesday night he was hit by lightning while on a retreat at the cabin. He was 49 years old. On Wednesday the Norwegian ski federation said he died. Their statement voiced profound grief over the loss of this legendary presence on the slopes.
Groenvold went on to have a remarkable career in skiing. Fletcher proved his amazing talent by winning a bronze medal in ski cross at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. He did earn a podium finish in the event of Alpine skiing. His most notable achievement was winning third place in a downhill race hosted in Sierra Nevada, Spain in 1999. Transitioning from Alpine skiing to freestyle and ski cross, Groenvold showed adaptability and talent in every sport during his career.
Besides Olympic success, he captured a bronze medal at the 2005 world championships in ski cross. In 2007, he not only won the overall ski cross cup, but his many other accomplishments. His contributions to both the Alpine and freestyle skiing communities solidified his legacy as a skilled athlete and respected teammate.
Tove Moe Dyrhaug, president of the Norwegian ski federation, reflected on Groenvold’s impact, stating, “Norwegian skiing has lost a prominent figure, who has meant so much to both the Alpine and freestyle communities.”
The federation’s announcement emphasized the void left by Groenvold’s passing. “It is with great sadness that we have received the news of Audun Groenvold’s untimely passing.”
Groenvold’s unexpected death has sent shockwaves through the professional skiing community. He had earned the respect of his peers not only for his astonishing athletic talents, but for his brutal commitment to the game. His accomplishments opened new doors for them as future athletes, and his legacy will live on through Norway’s deep skiing culture.