The sub-zero temperatures in Ruka in northern Finland took their toll on Swedish cross-country skier Calle Halfvarsson during a 20 km mass start event on Sunday as he lost all feeling in his private parts. The 34-year-old eventually crossed the line in 18th place but was forced to stop in a medical tent on the side of the course for treatment.
Halfvarsson was suffering from a condition known as hypothermia, and it’s not uncommon for athletes to suffer from the cold weather during World Cup events in Europe, where the temperatures can dip below freezing. However, this is the first time Halfvarsson has been affected.
He was diagnosed with the condition after he collapsed in the finish area, suffering from extreme pain. He had a rectal examination and was given medication to bring his core temperature up. After he had recovered, he could return to the race, finishing in 27th place.
The doctors in the tent told him that his condition could have been worse if the race had started in warmer weather. He was warned that he could have suffered permanent damage to his genitals and urged to seek treatment at home.
He is recovering in his home in Sweden, but the experience has shaken him. He cannot return to work yet but has a team of support staff helping him recover and take care of his health.
Earlier this month, Halfvarsson was part of the Swedish national team that won gold in the men’s 10 km relay. He has won two previous world cups and was also a 2014 Olympic bronze medal-winning Swedish team member.
In the lead-up to the event, Halfvarsson revealed that he had demanded his national team to remain on the squad. He is currently negotiating with the Swedish Ski Association to extend his contract.
The athletes arrived at the tent just after 7:30 a.m., carrying bags and purses, iPods, and tiny notebooks containing inspirational thoughts they’d written down. Some sat in oversized chairs, others sat in the sand, and others waited in small groups. Jugs and cases of water were spread across Laidley Field to help the athletes stay hydrated, while orange-jacketed volunteers from the New York Road Runners scurried around the tents to offer a pat on the back or an encouraging word.