Randonee, a winter sport that involves skiing in largely unmanipulated natural settings, is set to make its Olympic debut in Italy. The sport has gained popularity in Norway, not only for recreational use during the Easter holidays but also for competitive events. The inclusion in the Olympics is seen as a pivotal moment for randonee, with officials stating it has significantly elevated the sport's profile.

Martin Hanem Bartnes, the sports chief, emphasized the extraordinary nature of the Olympics and its impact on the sport's growth. In 2022, Norway's Ski Association added randonee to its priority list for the Olympics, leading to the selection of key athletes such as Ida Waldal and Hans-Inge Klette who are gearing up to compete for Olympic medals. Their participation is set against the backdrop of an increased interest in competitive randonee, reflecting a broader trend within winter sports.

The upcoming Olympic events will feature three competitions: men's sprint, women's sprint, and a mixed relay, taking place in Bormio, Italy, this week. The courses and formats are designed to test not just speed but the competitors' skills in navigating challenging terrain, making it an exciting addition to the Olympic winter sports lineup. As the first athletes take to the slopes, this historic moment for randonee may pave the way for future recognition and growth of the sport on a global scale.