M. Vaičiulis, a 36-year-old Lithuanian skier, was forced to withdraw from a race at Tezero after sustaining an injury in the middle of the course. He fell while adjusting his ski for a turn and described the conditions as challenging due to the worn-out turns and soft snow, leading to an unexpected accident. His experience highlights the risks athletes face in competitive skiing, especially on difficult courses that can change rapidly.

The injury left Vaičiulis with severe shoulder pain, which he reported made it difficult for him to continue racing. He explained that after the fall, he struggled to catch his breath and decided it was best to prioritize his health over completing the race. Vaičiulis is scheduled to see a physiotherapist to assess the extent of his injury and begin rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of recovery in competitive sports.

Meanwhile, another competitor, T. Stroliai, successfully finished the race with a time of 25 minutes and 30 seconds, highlighting the contrasting outcomes of the event. This incident serves as a reminder of the intensity and unpredictability of competitive skiing, as well as the physical toll it can take on athletes like Vaičiulis, who must navigate not only their performance but also the risk of injury during such events.