Tragic Loss: Olympic Skier Audun Groenvold Killed by Lightning Strike

Audun Groenvold, the bronze medalist from the 2010 Winter Olympics, has passed away at the age of 49 due to a lightning strike during a cabin trip, leaving behind a legacy in skiing.

Audun Groenvold, a former Norwegian Olympic skier, tragically lost his life this week after being struck by lightning, as reported by the Norwegian Ski Federation on Wednesday. The incident occurred while Groenvold was at a cabin, where he received immediate medical attention but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

Mr. Groenvold, who was recognized for his contributions to both alpine and freestyle skiing, had won a bronze medal in men's ski cross at the 2010 Winter Olympics hosted in Vancouver. The president of the Norwegian Ski Federation, Tove Moe Dyrhaug, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, stating that “Norwegian skiing has lost a prominent figure,” emphasizing the gap his absence will create in the sport.

An accomplished athlete, Groenvold switched from being a member of the national Alpine ski team to pioneering freestyle and ski cross. His collection of accolades includes a podium finish in World Cup Alpine skiing, where he secured third place at a downhill event in Sierra Nevada, Spain, back in 1999. He further enhanced his résumé with a bronze medal at the 2005 World Championships in ski cross and clinched the overall ski cross cup in 2007.

After retiring from competitive skiing post the 2010 Olympics because of ongoing physical challenges, Groenvold transitioned into coaching for the national team and became a television commentator. He was noted for his remarkable journey in the world of skiing and his willingness to share that experience with others.

In a moving tribute, Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, Groenvold’s wife, expressed her grief on social media, stating she had lost “my great love and my best friend for twenty years.” She poignantly recounted the events leading to his untimely death, which turned a joyful vacation into an immeasurable loss. Mr. Groenvold is survived by his wife and their three children.