Norwegian Olympian Audun Groenvold Dies at 49
AUDUN GROENVOLD – A well-known Norwegian Olympic skier has passed away after being struck by lightning during a cabin trip. He was 49 years old. According to the Norwegian Ski Federation, Groenvold was rushed to the nearest hospital after the accident and was treated for his injuries, but sadly, he was declared dead on July 15, 2025.
Tove Moe Dyrhaug, president of the Norwegian Ski Federation, shared his sadness over Groenvold’s passing. He described Groenvold as a respected athlete who made a significant impact in both alpine skiing and freestyle skiing. He said Groenvold’s death leaves a big gap in the skiing community.
Audun Groenvold was best known for winning a bronze medal in men’s ski cross at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. His skiing career began in 1993 when he joined Norway’s national alpine team. After more than a decade in alpine skiing, he shifted to freestyle and ski cross events.
Following his Olympic success, Groenvold worked as a coach and TV commentator and also served on the board of the Norwegian Ski Association. He is survived by his wife, Kristin Tandberg Haugsjå, and their three children.
Meanwhile, when someone is struck by lightning, it can stop the heart, cause serious burns, and damage the organs, brain, and nerves. The person might stop breathing, lose memory, or even become paralyzed. Hearing and vision can also be affected.
If this happens, call for emergency help immediately. Check if the person is breathing and has a pulse. If not, start CPR right away. Once it’s safe, move them to a dry, sheltered place. Cover any burns with a clean cloth and keep them warm to prevent shock. Even if they appear fine, medical attention is still necessary. Always keep yourself safe first, as lightning can strike the same place more than once during a storm.