Peter Riedel
A somewhat different birthday
Today I will turn 63. Actually a day to look back with gratitude on what has been achieved and look ahead with joy.
Yesterday it was officially confirmed what many of us wanted to deny until the end: Nordic combined will not be part of the Olympic program in 2030 in France.
For me, this is a fatal misdecision by the IOC. Not only for our sport, but especially for the next generation. What perspective do we give young female and male athletes when their greatest goal is taken away from them?
For decades my heart has beat for ski jumping and Nordic combined. With my team I had the opportunity to develop and build venues, ramp runs, and innovations worldwide. Always with the aim of creating optimal conditions for the sport and its future. Every new hill project was, for me, also a commitment to this unique sport.
The more it hurts when all the passion, work, and dedication of countless people are put into question by such a decision.
Especially on my 63rd birthday I wish not only for health and many beautiful moments, but also that reason and foresight regain a stronger role in decisions of international sport.
For me, it is clear: We will continue to build hills and tracks and do everything to enable young athletes to live their dream. Because Nordic combined still has a future, even if today a piece of it has been taken away.
Giving up is not an option.