The races that are relevant for Johaug are the Birkebeinerrennet outside Lillehammer on March 19 and the Reistadsløpet in northern Norway on April 2.
Therese Johaug is just one of several profiles from the traditional World Cup who have recently become interested in long distance running.
Ivo Niskanen, Finland, Martin Johnsrud Sundby, Norway, and Swedish Hanna Falk are some examples of skiers who have ridden and will ride long distance.
More attention when the public service channels in Sweden and Norway broadcast the races, increased prize money and new challenges are some reasons for the new interest.
Therese Johaug already has several connections to the long-distance circus.
Her brother Karstein Johaug rides in Team Ragde Charge and is one of her advisors in training.
Another source of inspiration is Marit Bjørgen, who will make a long-distance investment in the same team.
Bjørgen and Therese Johaug live close to each other in Holmenkollen north of Oslo and often train together.
- Therese Johaug has her focus on the Olympics and the World Cup, but then it will be interesting to see what she can do against other long-distance skiers in, for example, the Birkebeiner race.
There, Therese Johaug will ride with a mooring while the others stake.
Therefore, she must have a four-five minute gap to be able to win, says Magnar Dalen to TT.