Bøkko think Pedersen – VG

Havard Bøkko (28) is not afraid that Sverre Lunde Pedersen (22) will get lost in medal game in allround.

Pedersen is third overall after the first day of the championship in Calgary. Sven Kramer leader ahead Denis Juskov. Probably ends medals at the three runners.

– Sverre is very well possible. He is in good shape and I am no worried that he goes on a crack, says Bøkko said.

Fana-runner has never been on the podium in an international senior championship, but after two super powered race Saturday there reason to have expectations about Norwegian medal in the allround in Calgary.

At the top it is very evenly between the trio Sven Kramer Denis Juskov and Sverre Lunde Pedersen. North man is in third place, but only 0.30 seconds up to senior Kramer before the 1500.

– There are medals I hunt all the time. I felt I was one of the outsiders before the races today, but delivered two of my best race ever, says Pedersen.

Self

On the opening distance 500 meters he struck with 35.87 and smashed his one week old “person” with almost half a second. It was the fourth best time. He followed up with second place at 5000m with time 6.11,77.

– Self-esteem is at its peak. I thrive on the ice and goes well technically. I am in good physical shape, says 22-year-old.

Pedersen has shown strength earlier in the season. In November, he took the first World Cup victory in 1000 days, and both EM and 10,000 meters in World Single Distances Championships, he was close to a medal.

There is no doubt that Hordalendingen has established itself in the world.

Bøkko struggling

Havard Bøkko part reality another. He has taken five World Championship medals in allround (four silver, one bronze), but is not at the top for year’s championship. Knee has ruined season Halling.

After the first day of the allround he ninth overall. Neither of 500 meters (35.91) or 5,000 feet (6.25,79), he managed to perform as desired.

– I had hoped both distances were much better. This was disappointing. I am motivated to go better than this, says Bøkko.

He had to go 5000m alone after defending champion Koen Verweij resigned. The Dutchman fell 500 box and hit the knee.

– It did not any easier, but it was nevertheless a bad run. Last week I felt good in my legs, but I have not the same feeling this weekend. I had a bit bigger hopes, says Bøkko.