Marlies Nipius will be the first Dutch athlete racing at the Ski Classics Pro Tour, competing for her new squad, xc-ski.de A|N Skimarathon Team. The Dutch skier, with a vibrant spirit and a lifelong affinity for all things skiing, had etched her identity deep within the snow-covered terrains and cold waters of Europe. Her journey, rooted in a childhood filled with waterskiing adventures and alpine escapades, has seamlessly transitioned into a career in long-distance skiing. 

“When my boyfriend asked me to try cross-country skiing in 2010, I was eager to give it a go,” Marlies explained to ProXCskiing.com and added: 

“It felt like a natural progression from my love for waterskiing and downhill skiing. The thrill of navigating the snow-covered landscapes captivated me.”

A Journey from Novice to Pro Team athlete

Her journey into the long-distance skiing circuit has been a culmination of relentless training and newfound experiences. “I vividly remember my first Engadin Ski Marathon,” she recounted. 

“With only ten skiing sessions under my belt, it was a grueling experience. Yet, the overwhelming support from my family, who traveled to Switzerland to cheer me on, remains one of my most cherished memories.”

As her dedication deepened, so did her immersion in the world of long-distance skiing. Nipius explained to us the turn of events that led her to the German Pro Team. 

Also Read – xc-ski.de A|N Skimarathon Team – Pro Team presentation Season XV

“It all started with a casual introduction to classic skiing by my boyfriend in 2014,” she explained, a smile on her lips. “From there, my passion for cross-country skiing continued to grow. In 2016, with a group of 7 friends, we signed up for the Birkebeinerrennet in Norway. We rented a cabin in Sjusøen and had such a blast! A new passion was born: classic ski races. I felt the technique suited me, and I signed up for more and more races, culminating in my first taste of success at the Sertig Classic in Davos. Meeting Karin Weltert, who later became my teammate, was a turning point that solidified my path in cross-country skiing.”

Marlies also spoke of her aspirations for the upcoming season. “I’ll be racing in several events, including Vasaloppet,” she revealed, her anticipation palpable. 

“But it’s Janteloppet, the Grand Finale, that truly ignites my competitive spirit. The challenge of a 100km race is daunting, but I’m ready to embrace it.”

From Snow-Covered Wonders to Dutch Shores

A vibrant explorer at heart, Marlies Nipius shared her enthusiasm for discovering new skiing locations. “Äkäslompolo, in Northern Finland, holds a special place in my heart,” she confessed. 

“The serene beauty of snow-clad forests and the warmth of log cabins create an unparalleled atmosphere. However, my thirst for adventure always draws me to explore new tracks and regions.”

Reflecting on the state of cross-country skiing in her homeland, Marlies acknowledged the limited opportunities in the Netherlands. 

“The cross-country skiing community is relatively small,” she reflected. “While it’s a challenge to find snow for training, the passion for the sport runs deep within a select few. My grandmother’s love for cross-country skiing serves as a nostalgic link, connecting my present to our shared past.”

As the interview drew to a close, Marlies Nipius’ enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to her craft left an indelible impression. Her journey, woven with familial support, personal triumphs, and an unyielding love for the snow, stood as a testament to the transformative power of following one’s passion, wherever it may lead.

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