Canada’s embassy in Norway is to present five tonnes of maple syrup to Norway’s skiing-team trainer, Bjoernar Haakensmoen, in recognition of his help during the Winter Olympics, the embassy said on Monday.
By giving one of his ski poles to Canadian Sara Renner, who had broken one of her own, Haakensmoen allowed Canada to take the silver medal in the women’s cross-country.
The gesture has been particularly applauded in Canada because it may have cost Norway a medal position. Norway took fourth in the event.
”Canadians were thrilled with this story, which so beautifully exemplifies the Olympic spirit and fair play,” the embassy said.
Haakensmoen will be presented with 7 400 cans of maple syrup, weighing 5,2 tonnes, on Wednesday, ”with the gratitude and appreciation of the Canadian people”, the embassy added. — Sapa-AFP