Norway's Loss Was Canada's Gain

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The 2006 Winter Olympics were in Turin, Italy. Many of us were focused on downhill skier Bode Miller, whose notorious partying and flippant attitude left him with no medals. Others were watching the ice hockey or figure skating -- the glamor sports.

Not many probably paid much attention to cross country skiing. Almost no one here saw the women's sprint relay, where Canadian skier Sara Renner was leading halfway through the race. When her pole snapped, she thought it was over. Three skiers passed her, including the Norwegian who was in position for the bronze.

Out of nowhere, someone stuck a pole out for her. The merciful gesture came from long-time Norwegian ski coach Bjornar Hakensmoen. He happened to be close by. The Norwegians had emphasized "fair play" and sportsmanship as key values for their skiers. So he didn't think twice about offering Renner his pole.

Although Hakensmoen's pole was 7 inches longer than Renner's own, she managed to catch up and finish with the silver medal. The Norwegian team finished fourth.

Amazingly, no one in Norway sent hate mail to Hakensmoen. On the contrary, the nation seemed supportive. Norwegians seem to think that sportsmanship trumps victory. Amazing. Simply amazing.

Canadians were even more appreciative of course, sending him maple syrup, wine and free hotel offers. Hakensmoen has since retired as coach of the ski team. I wonder if he'll be in Vancouver as a spectator. Can you imagine what kind of reception he might get?

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