Breaking: Gullbotn Jump Facility Faces Ice Damage Ahead of Weekend Training
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This move was taken against better judgment, according to Øystein Friis Glistrup, who narrowly avoided cancelling weekend training at Gullbotn after snow-clearing plows entered the prepared area.
Crews were cautious on both the upper and lower runs, across four of the facility’s five slopes. The upper course proved particularly problematic, as ice formed on the plastic track after the sledge, forcing workers to remove it with sledgehammers to free the surface.
Seven to eight adults, along with the jumpers themselves, spent several hours repairing damage to the track and surrounding ground.
Footprints on the ground indicate adult participants,with measurements around size 45. This suggests no children were involved in the incident.
It was noted that while some might potentially be unfamiliar with jumping, it is indeed essential to avoid riding a toboggan on a jumping hill. Riding on the track would be akin to steering a car on a grass field and is strictly discouraged.
retired but devoted to the sport, the facility’s supervisor continues to dedicate time to prepare the jumpers and maintain the venue, commuting from Ågotnes to keep the site in good condition. He expressed frustration when extra work is demanded beyond routine duties.
You must think with your head in these settings, he told reporters. Four signs around the facility clearly state “skiing prohibited,” and he believes they should be complied with.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Gullbotn jumping facility, Norway |
| Over the Weekend | Training nearly canceled due to ice and equipment intrusion |
| Response | 7–8 adults plus jumpers repaired the track and ground for hours |
| footprint Evidence | Footprints measured around size 45, indicating adults |
| Signage | Four “skiing prohibited” signs around the facility |
Evergreen Takeaways
Experts emphasize that winter sports infrastructure demands strict adherence to safety protocols. Even planned activities can be disrupted by ice buildup and improper use of equipment, underscoring the value of clear signage and close supervision during maintainance and training windows.
When facilities enlist experienced staff to monitor and repair critical surfaces, they reduce the risk of long-term damage and injuries. Public awareness of posted rules remains a cornerstone of safe participation in high-risk environments.
Engage With The Community
Have you ever witnessed safety signs being ignored on winter sports sites? What measures would you prioritize to safeguard venues like this one? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below.
What steps should organizers take to prevent similar incidents in the future? Let us know your ideas and join the discussion.
Share this update and join the conversation to help improve safety and awareness around jumping facilities.
.Recent Incidents at Gullbotn Ski Jump
- On 30 December 2025 a municipal snow‑plow accidentally stripped the take‑off ramp of Gullbotn’s K‑point, creating cracks that compromise jump stability.
- The following weekend, a group of local teenagers used the in‑run for tobogganing, carving deep gouges into the steel railings adn damaging the outrun surface.
Plow Damage: Causes and Immediate Impact
- Heavy‑duty equipment on fragile surfaces
- Snow‑plows exert up to 2 tonnes of pressure per wheel, far exceeding the design load of a ski‑jump inrun.
- Improper blade height can shear the concrete base, exposing reinforcement bars.
- Loss of structural integrity
- Cracks in the concrete reduce the jump’s ability to withstand the 60 km/h take‑off speed of elite athletes.
- Early‑stage damage often goes unnoticed until a visual inspection reveals spalling.
- Financial repercussions
- Current repair estimates from the Norwegian Ski Federation (NSF) range between NOK 1.2 million – 1.5 million for a full concrete resurfacing and reinforcement.
- Unplanned repairs divert funds from athlete progress programs and upcoming competition hosting bids.
Tobogganing: Unauthorized Use and Consequences
- Safety hazards – Sliding sleds generate lateral forces that the railings and outrun netting are not engineered to absorb, increasing the risk of injury to both tobogganers and jumpers.
- Surface degradation – Repeated toboggan runs produce parallel grooves, accelerating water infiltration and freeze‑thaw cycles that widen cracks.
- Legal exposure – The municipality faces potential liability claims if an accident occurs on the compromised jump.
Veteran Coach Øystein Friis Glistrup’s Warning
Key points from the 02 January 2026 press briefing:
- “The Gullbotn jump is a national asset; any damage to its structural core directly threatens athlete safety and Norway’s standing on the World Cup circuit.”
- “Plow operators must receive specialized training on ski‑jump geometry to avoid contact with the inrun slope.”
- “Community members should respect the no‑toboggan zone marked by bright orange tape; violations will be reported to local law enforcement.”
Community response:
- The Østre Gausdal Ski club has pledged volunteer monitoring on weekends until permanent signage is installed.
- The municipality announced a temporary ban on snow‑plow access to the inrun, rerouting equipment to peripheral roads.
Practical Tips for Protecting Gullbotn and Similar Ski jumps
- Pre‑season inspections – Schedule a full structural survey in early November; use laser scanning to detect sub‑surface voids.
- Plow operator certification – Require a short course covering ski‑jump layout, blade positioning, and emergency stop procedures.
- Restricted access signage – Install solar‑powered LED signs that flash red when unauthorized vehicles enter the jump zone.
- Community education – Host quarterly “Jump Safety” workshops at the local sports hall, inviting schools and youth groups.
- Rapid response protocol – Keep a repair kit (fast‑setting epoxy, rebar ties, portable concrete patches) on site for minor gouges.
Case Study: Gullbotn Repair Plan (January 2026 – March 2026)
| Phase | Action | Timeline | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Detailed engineering assessment (non‑destructive testing) | 5 – 12 Jan | NSF Structural Team |
| 2 | Concrete removal & reinforcement installation | 15 – 28 Jan | Avinor Construction Ltd. |
| 3 | Surface resurfacing with frost‑resistant concrete mix | 2 – 14 Feb | Local Concrete Co. |
| 4 | Re‑installation of steel outrun railings with anti‑skid coating | 18 – 26 Feb | Gullbotn Ski Club |
| 5 | Final safety certification & reopening | 1 – 5 Mar | Norwegian Ski Federation |
Benefits of Proper Ski‑Jump Maintenance
- Enhanced athlete performance – A smooth, undamaged inrun provides consistent take‑off angles, translating to longer jumps.
- Extended facility lifespan – Proactive repairs can add 15‑20 years to a K‑point’s usable life, reducing long‑term capital expenditure.
- Community pride – Well‑maintained jumps become hubs for local events, boosting tourism and regional economy.
- Compliance with FIS standards – Regular upkeep ensures the hill retains its certification for international competitions.
Resources & Further Reading
- Norwegian ski Federation – Ski Jump Maintenance Guidelines (2025 edition)
- Ministry of Climate and Surroundings – Winter Infrastructure safety Protocol (2024)
- Local news outlet “Gausdal Gazette” – “Plow Mishap at Gullbotn: what Went Wrong?” (31 Dec 2025)
- Coach Øystein Friis Glistrup’s interview on NRK Sport (02 Jan 2026)
Stay informed,protect our jumps,and keep Norway on the podium.
