Chinese skiers proved to be unbeatable in the ski sprint at Deer Valley in Changchun today. It was the second stage of this years China Tour de Ski, which will see the 15th edition of Vasaloppet China tomorrow.
In the mens ski sprint, Zhu Mingliang was fastest ahead of his compatriot Shang Jincai. Winner in Changbai Shan two days ago, Haakon Hjelstuen, had to settle for third place today. Interestingly, Zhu Mingliang and Hjelstuen now share the lead in the mens China Tour de Ski points ranking. Pavel Janecek from the Czech Republic came in fourth today.
In the womens, Swedens Julia Jansson was the only non-Chinese athlete able to ski herself into the final today. However, Man Dandan and Chi Chunxue beat her for the stage victory. Li Hongxue finished fourth. Jansson did do a good job for the overall ranking, though, as both Li Xin and Meng Honglian, who were first and second in Changbai Shan, were eliminated in the semi finals.
Tomorrow is the 50 km classic style Vasaloppet China in Changchuns Jingyuetan Park. Already in its 15th edition, the event has become even more international as it has been included in the Ski Classics series. The event will be broadcast live in Sweden and Norway.