Audun Groenvold, a celebrated skier who won a bronze medal in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, tragically lost his life this week following a lightning strike, as confirmed by the Norwegian Ski Federation. Mr. Groenvold, who was 49, was reportedly struck while visiting a cabin, prompting emergency medical intervention, which ultimately proved unsuccessful.
Tragic Loss: Norwegian Olympic Skier Audun Groenvold Dies from Lightning Strike
Tragic Loss: Norwegian Olympic Skier Audun Groenvold Dies from Lightning Strike
Norwegian Olympic medalist Audun Groenvold, known for his contributions to skiing, has passed away after a lightning accident.
In a heartfelt statement, Tove Moe Dyrhaug, the president of the federation, expressed the significant loss felt by the skiing community, stating, “Norwegian skiing has lost a prominent figure, who has meant so much to both the alpine and freestyle communities. There will be a big void after Audun.” His remarkable career included a bronze medal in men’s ski cross at the Vancouver Olympics and numerous achievements in both alpine and freestyle skiing.
Starting as a member of the national Alpine ski team, Groenvold transitioned to freestyle and ski cross, showcasing his versatility and skill. He achieved notable milestones such as a podium finish in the 1999 World Cup downhill in Sierra Nevada, Spain, and a bronze medal at the 2005 World Championships. His career culminated with an overall ski cross cup victory in 2007.
Post-retirement from competitive skiing, Groenvold transitioned into coaching and became a familiar face as a TV commentator. His journey as an athlete came to an end after the 2010 Olympics due to persistent injuries that made it challenging for him to continue.
Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, his wife of twenty years, mourned his loss with an emotional tribute on social media: “What started with a lovely summer vacation ended with you being struck by lightning while we were out at our cabin.” She described their relationship as a profound love and expressed the enormity of her grief. He is survived by his wife and their three children, who will carry on his legacy.
Starting as a member of the national Alpine ski team, Groenvold transitioned to freestyle and ski cross, showcasing his versatility and skill. He achieved notable milestones such as a podium finish in the 1999 World Cup downhill in Sierra Nevada, Spain, and a bronze medal at the 2005 World Championships. His career culminated with an overall ski cross cup victory in 2007.
Post-retirement from competitive skiing, Groenvold transitioned into coaching and became a familiar face as a TV commentator. His journey as an athlete came to an end after the 2010 Olympics due to persistent injuries that made it challenging for him to continue.
Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, his wife of twenty years, mourned his loss with an emotional tribute on social media: “What started with a lovely summer vacation ended with you being struck by lightning while we were out at our cabin.” She described their relationship as a profound love and expressed the enormity of her grief. He is survived by his wife and their three children, who will carry on his legacy.
