Marit Stub Nybelius has been a prominent figure in the world of ski jumping officiating for almost three decades, often standing out as the sole female judge among her peers. She recalls her early experiences, where seasoned male judges frequently questioned her capabilities because of her youth and gender, highlighting the uphill battle for recognition and respect in a predominantly male-dominated field.

The recent appointment of her and another female judge as the first women to officiate at the Olympic level in ski jumping marks a significant milestone in the sport's history. Nybelius expresses her disbelief that it has taken so long for female judges to achieve this status, emphasizing the importance of representation and the gradual but crucial changes occurring within sports officiating.

This breakthrough highlights not only the progress made toward gender equality in sports but also serves as a reminder of the barriers that still need to be dismantled. As more women step into these roles, the hope is to inspire future generations of female officials and to foster an inclusive environment in sports that recognizes talent regardless of gender.