Odd Martinsen

Odd Martinsen was a renowned Norwegian cross-country skier known for his exceptional performances in relay races. He achieved significant success during his career, becoming a world champion in the 1966 World Championships and winning an Olympic gold medal in the 1968 Winter Olympics. Martinsen also earned an Olympic silver medal in 1976 and secured multiple medals in individual distance events, including an Olympic silver in 1968 and a World Championship silver in 1970. He was celebrated for his reliability and high-quality performances, often competing in the opening leg of relay races, and he was a key figure in Norway's legendary 'golden quartet' at Holmenkollen in 1966. In 2014, he was honored with the Knight of the First Class of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav for his contributions to Norwegian and international skiing. Martinsen's passing was confirmed by his family, marking a significant loss for the skiing community.