Story perspectives

Skaters Embrace Realities of Competition: Mucus, Saliva, and Performance

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

During the Milan Cortina Olympics, cross-country skiers and biathletes manage mucus and saliva during intense competition.
The cross-country skier Hugo Lapalus embraces this, prioritizing performance over appearance.
Other athletes, such as Zanden McMullen (a cross-country skier), wipe their faces when possible.
Nathaniel Herz, a former skier, says wiping decisions maintain rhythm and focus.
American cross-country skier Jessie Diggins describes exertion, saying she sometimes feels she might pass out.

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Story summary

During the Milan Cortina Olympics, cross-country skiers and biathletes manage mucus and saliva during intense competition.
The cross-country skier Hugo Lapalus embraces this, prioritizing performance over appearance.
Other athletes, such as Zanden McMullen (a cross-country skier), wipe their faces when possible.
Nathaniel Herz, a former skier, says wiping decisions maintain rhythm and focus.
American cross-country skier Jessie Diggins describes exertion, saying she sometimes feels she might pass out.