Olympic Skier Audun Grønvold Dies at 49

Olympic ski cross bronze medalist Audun Grønvold has died at age 49 after being struck by lightning during a cabin trip in Norway. Grønvold, who won bronze at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and also medaled at the 2005 World Championships, was hospitalized but died from his injuries days later, as confirmed by the Norwegian Ski Federation. He began his career as an alpine skier, achieving a World Cup podium in 1999, before shifting to ski cross and pioneering Norwegian success in the discipline. After retiring, Grønvold served as a national team coach, board member, and television commentator, earning widespread respect within both the alpine and freestyle skiing communities. Federation president Tove Moe Dyrhaug and former coaches praised his sporting achievements and personal warmth, noting his passing leaves a significant void. Grønvold is survived by his wife and three children.