The Norwegian Ski Federation is preparing to update its roller skiing regulations following a tragic incident that claimed the life of a young Slovenian athlete, Hana Mazi Jamnik. In collaboration with the country’s National Road Administration and the Norwegian Biathlon Federation, the federation is shaping a new inline skating rule set aimed at enhancing safety for skiers who train on public roadways. The changes come as part of a broader effort to reduce risk in high traffic environments where athletes push their limits during off-season preparation and training blocks. These measures reflect a commitment to safeguarding athletes while maintaining the discipline’s integrity and competitiveness.
The circumstances surrounding Jamnik’s death are being reviewed in detail. The 19-year-old was involved in a road incident in the Strand municipality of Norway, where a collision with a motor vehicle occurred inside a tunnel. She was transported to a hospital by air medical services but could not be saved. The driver involved in the incident has pleaded not guilty, and charges have been filed as part of the ongoing legal process. The case has spurred conversations across the Nordic skiing community about road safety, driver awareness, and the responsibilities of sports organizations to set clear safety protocols for athletes who train in shared spaces with the public. The legal proceedings and the driver’s response are being monitored by authorities and media outlets seeking to understand how such tragedies can be prevented in the future. (Source: NRK)
Officials emphasized that the new inline skating regulation is not only a response to this incident but a proactive step to standardize safety practices across the sport. The aim is to implement consistent guidelines for helmet use, reflective apparel, daylight vs. dusk training windows, and prescribed routes that minimize exposure to heavy traffic. By coordinating with national road authorities and allied federations, the initiative seeks to create a safer training environment without diminishing the opportunities for athletes to train effectively on public infrastructure. The strategy includes clearer responsibilities for coaches and event organizers, plus enhanced education for athletes on road-sharing etiquette and hazard recognition.
Jamnik had previously competed with the Slovenian national cross-country ski team during the 2022/23 season, contributing to a legacy of young talent in the sport. Her presence on the international stage highlighted the potential for promising athletes from smaller programs to make an impact in high-level competitions. The community continues to reflect on her achievements, lost potential, and the importance of rigorous safety standards that can support athletes as they pursue elite performance. The broader implication of her passing resonates with coaches, teammates, and supporters who recognize that safeguarding athletes extends beyond training drills to include the entire ecosystem in which they prepare and compete. (Source: NRK)
A former member of the Norwegian women’s cross-country skiing team, Lotta Udnes Udnes Veng, publicly commented on the tragedy and its emotional toll. Her reflections underscored the pain experienced by families, friends, and teammates when such accidents disrupt a sport that prizes speed, endurance, and resilience. Udnes Veng expressed condolences to those affected, noting the heavy emotional burden carried by close relatives and the wider sports community. The remarks, quoted in Norwegian media, captured the universal sense of shock and sympathy felt by skiers across nations as they processed the news. (Source: VG)