When Therese Johaug retired during the late winter, many feared that the Norwegian distance team would collapse, but Tiril Udnes Weng leads the overall cup and the Kalvå distance cup.
In addition, Heidi Weng and Ingvild Flugstad Östberg have been on the podium in distance races this season.
30-year-old Kalvå has had his breakthrough this season.
She missed the Olympics last winter due to covid 19, which was a painful experience.
- I'm terrified of that covid, I admit it.
It is a trauma that lies there, and we have been quite close to some of the people who have received it in recent weeks, says Kalvå to Norwegian NRK.
"Afraid it's a fluke"
That's not the only thing that Kalvå is upset about.
- It is a bit like that you are afraid that it is a fluke, that my current shape will disappear, she admits but at the same time says that there is another step up in terms of shape.
Tiril Udnes Weng leads the World Cup without having won a single competition – the new points system rewards those active who participate in many competitions.
Weng has driven it all, which has meant points in ten straight races.
As of this season, they get the first 50 points and it is not so sparse between the points at the top.
A third place last year gave 60 points – this year it is enough to be eleven to get 60 points.
Must be at his best at the WC
- Now I fear that the form will disappear, says Weng, who shares Kalvå's anxiety.
According to the Norwegian national team management, there is no reason for concern.
- We have put together a plan so that they will hopefully go even faster in the WC, says coach Stig Rune Kveen.
The WC will take place in Slovenian Planica in February/March next year.
Link to Fi's points system, among other things.