Second victory for Erik Valnes from Norway
The decision was made on the long home straight in the LOTTO Thüringen ARENA am
Rennsteig: after yesterday's sprint, Erik Valnes has also won the mass start in the classic technique. In front of 2500 spectators, he beat his three teammates Martin Löwström Nyenget, Paal Golberg and Mattis Stenshagen. „I love it in Oberhof. Tomorrow I want to win the triple tomorrow“, said the 27-year-old with regards to the final relay race on Sunday.
In perfect winter conditions in the Thuringian Forest, the men competed in an exciting race over 20 kilometers, with the legendary Birxsteig having to be climbed six times. The best DSV athlete was Friedrich Moch in 16th place. The second best German was Florian Notz in 22nd place, Lucas Bögl crossed the finish line in 25th place. In his first World Cup race ever, Jan-Friedrich Doerks as the only Thuringian starter delivered and secured himself 26th place.