Sander Eitrem encountered a nerve-wracking moment just as the start gun went off for his 5000-meter race, nearly falling and prompting concern from his mother, Hege Mølstad, who was watching intently. He admitted that the fall was nearly a disaster that could have cost him not just the gold but also a shot at Olympic glory. The tension was palpable, as Eitrem's reaction highlighted how close he was to an unfortunate mishap at a critical moment.

Despite the initial scare, Eitrem managed to compose himself and deliver an outstanding performance, ultimately finishing the race with an Olympic record and claiming his first Olympic gold medal. His mother reflected on the intense emotions of the race, describing how she nearly felt sick watching her son compete under such pressure. Eitrem's ability to recover from the near-miss illustrates the mental resilience needed in high-stakes competitions.

The success of Eitrem not only marks a personal achievement but also contributes to Norway's presence in the athletics world stage. His mother's confidence in him, despite the fear witnessed during the race, speaks volumes about the supportive environment he has. This Olympic triumph underscores the significance of mental fortitude in sports and the close bonds that motivate athletes to succeed even when faced with unexpected challenges.