On the verge of the 2021 FIS Nordic Ski World Championships in Oberstdorf, Germany, we explore the ascent of the US Cross Country Ski Team through the voice of Head Coach Matt Whitcomb.

With excerpts from Sophie Caldwell, Simi Hamilton, Sverre Caldwell and Liz Stephen.

Hosted by Chad Salmela

With Guest Matt Whitcomb

Produced by Chris Parr

It was in Lillehammer in 1996 when the International Biathlon Union (IBU) attempted a new racing format: the Pursuit. The men's race ended in a four-way sprint finish for the victory--perhaps the most thrilling finish in the history of the sport to that time. Eurovision executives ink a four-year TV-rights deal with the International Biathlon Union.  The modern biathlon world cup was born.

That popularity brought with it money, and with money brought corruption. A recent report exposed that the former IBU President, Anders Besseberg "accepted gifts from Russians — including cash, hunting trips and the services of prostitutes — and then publicly defended the country, its athletes and its interests."

Our guest, IBU Executive Board Member, Max Cobb, talks about that game-changing race in Lillehammer, the current state of corruption and doping in international sport, and a preview of the 2021 Biathlon World Championships in Pokljuka, Slovenia.

The full New York Times Anders Besseberg disclosure: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/01/28/us/biathlon-report-russia-besseberg.html

Hajo Seppelt, ARD German TV investigative journalist: https://vimeo.com/249176658?fbclid=IwAR3iNwecCpRnBqAD5N0EYxC_SW7HTtPjlzkwsgEkjM3AiWPaQ9keiJB-X5Q

Hosted by Chad Salmela

Guest Max Cobb

Produced by Chris Parr

Music by Taavesi