Croatian ski racer Marko Skender achieved a notable 55th place in the 50-kilometer classic technique race during the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan Cortina, which represented the final participation of Croatian athletes at these Games. The race was heavily dominated by Norwegian competitors, who set an incredibly strong pace that many found difficult to match. Despite Skender being lapped during the race and not completing the full 50 kilometers, he maintained a positive outlook on his performance and recognized the intense competitive nature of the event, particularly for athletes from smaller nations.

Skender expressed a mix of pride and disappointment regarding his race, noting that despite being a sprinter by nature, qualifying for and participating in such a long event marked a significant achievement for him. He acknowledged the unique challenges faced by athletes from smaller countries, emphasizing that being lapped, while unfortunate, is not uncommon under such competitive conditions. Additionally, Skender indicated that his conscious decision to enter this grueling competition and persist throughout the event demonstrated his determination and competitive spirit.

With a starting lineup of 65 athletes, Skender finished ahead of several competitors who were behind him, reinforcing his perspective that participating in the race and refusing to give up were commendable actions. His comments not only highlight his personal journey as an athlete but also shed light on the broader implications for athletes from smaller nations who often face greater challenges in high-stakes international events. Skender's determination and experiences may resonate with many aspiring athletes looking to compete at such levels, inspiring them to strive despite adversity.