The Tyumen region national team clinched the men’s 4×10 km ski relay at the 2023 Russian Championship, securing a commanding victory that showcased depth and endurance across the squad.
The quartet consisting of Artem Maltsev, Evgeny Belov, Denis Spitsov and Ivan Yakimushkin crossed the finish line in 1 hour 48 minutes 13.4 seconds, a result that highlighted precise baton exchanges, efficient pacing, and strong team synergy under the pressure of a fast, competitive course. Each athlete contributed a critical leg, maintaining steady momentum and delivering consistent splits that kept the team ahead as the race entered its final kilometers.
Finishing in second place were the skiers from the Republic of Tatarstan: Andrey Larkov, Sergey Ardashev, Anton Timashov, and Ivan Gorbunov. They finished 51.7 seconds behind the winners, demonstrating resilience and a sharp, controlled climb in the later stages of the relay. Their performance underlined the strength of a well-balanced squad capable of mounting a strong challenge on the national stage and pushing the leaders throughout the closing exchanges.
Meanwhile, the bronze went to the skiers from the Komi Republic: Yermil Vorkuev, Ilya Semikov, Alexei Vitsenko, and Evgeny Semyashkin. They clocked 1 hour 50 minutes 11.5 seconds, cementing a podium finish through disciplined skiing, tactical race management, and a steady pace that paid dividends in the demanding long-distance format. The result added another chapter to Komi’s growing presence in national cross-country skiing and its reputation for fielding competitive relay teams.
Looking ahead to the next phase of the national championship, organizers announced a continuation of events the following day, March 25. At 9:00 am Moscow time, the day would begin with the women’s 30 km race in classic technique, offering a different test of endurance and strategy across a longer distance and a contrasting race profile. The cadence of this schedule underscores the championship’s strategy to showcase the breadth of depth across both genders while maintaining a high level of competition across disciplines.
The broader season narrative also includes notable remarks from former skier Alexander Bolshunov, who commented on the season’s arc amid the suspension of international starts. Despite the pause in global competition, the closing season proved to be compelling, with athletes delivering strong performances, innovative tactics, and a renewed emphasis on national-level achievements that resonated with fans and supporters of the sport. The scene highlighted how domestic championships can provide a vital platform for talent development, team cohesion, and continued motivation for athletes navigating the evolving landscape of competitive cross-country skiing.