Athlete Secures Olympic Bronze Medal in Ski Cross, Later Perishes Due to Lightning Strike
In a tragic and sudden turn of events, Norwegian Olympic skier Audun Grønvold, a bronze medalist in freestyle ski cross at the 2010 Winter Olympics, has passed away. Grønvold, aged 49, was struck by lightning while on a family vacation at a remote cabin in rural Norway on July 12, 2025.
The incident occurred during a hut tour, and despite immediate medical attention and transportation to the hospital, Grønvold succumbed to his injuries, passing away on July 15 or 16, 2025, according to varying reports.
Grønvold, who had retired from professional skiing, continued to be an active figure in the sport, serving as a national team coach and TV commentator. The Norwegian Ski Federation confirmed the details of his untimely demise.
The news of Grønvold’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from the Norwegian skiing community. The Norwegian Ski Federation released a statement expressing their profound sadness, describing Grønvold as a pioneering and highly agile athlete who contributed greatly to Norwegian skiing both as a competitor and a coach.
Colleagues, including fellow athlete Kjetil André Aamodt, praised Grønvold’s exceptional speed and athleticism. Messages of support have been shared widely in Norway, highlighting not only his sporting achievements—including national downhill titles in 2003 and 2004—but also his kindness and dedication to the sport.
Grønvold began his career as an alpine skier but switched to ski cross in 2004. His achievements were significant in both the alpine and freestyle communities, with a bronze medal at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, a repeat bronze medal win at the same Olympics in ski cross, and a bronze at the World Championships in ski cross in 2005.
After retiring due to health issues, Grønvold became the head coach of the Norwegian ski cross team. His legacy includes his Olympic medal, national championships, and his later work nurturing the next generation of Norwegian skiers.
Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, Grønvold's widow, paid tribute to him on Facebook, describing him as her "great love" and "best friend". The Norwegian Ski Association described Grønvold as a remarkable personality.
Grønvold's death serves as a poignant reminder of his impact on Norwegian skiing and the close-knit community he remained a respected and beloved figure in, long after his competition days.
Audun Grønvold's passion for sports remained evident even after his retirement, as he continued to serve as a national team coach and TV commentator in skiing. In remembrance of his accomplishments, his death serves as a poignant reminder of the impact he made on the Norwegian skiing community.
