Ben Ogden Makes History with Silver Medal Win in Men's Cross-Country Sprint Classic
American cross-country skier Ben Ogden made history by winning a silver medal in the men's cross-country sprint classic event, marking the first time an American man has medaled in the sport since 1976. Ogden, a Vermont native, grew up in the Bill Koch Youth Ski League and has skied with Bill Koch, the only other American man to have medaled in the sport. Norway claimed the other two medals in the event, with Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo winning gold and Oskar Opstad Vike taking bronze. Despite not being a favorite, Ogden performed well throughout the races on Tuesday, posting the second-fastest time in qualification and winning his quarterfinal race.
Ben Ogden, who will turn 26 on Friday, is competing in his second Olympic Games. In the Beijing 2022 Olympics, he finished ninth in the team sprint, 12th in the sprint, and 42nd in the 15km individual race. The men's cross-country competition will continue on Friday with the 10km interval start freestyle event. Ogden's silver medal win is a significant achievement for Team USA and a proud moment for American cross-country skiing.