Czech wolfhound interrupts Winter Olympics in Italy
A Czech wolfhound named Nazgul brought an unexpected interruption to the Winter Olympics in Italy on Wednesday morning after escaping from his home and making his way onto the cross-country skiing course, reports BritPanorama.
The two-year-old canine, whose name is derived from the ringwraiths in The Lord of the Rings, appeared during the women’s team cross-country qualifiers in Tesero. Footage captured the wolf-like dog initially drawn to cameras before spotting competitors on the track.
Nazgul pursued skiers from Croatia and Greece as they approached the finish line, providing considerable amusement for spectators gathered at the venue. Reactions from competitors varied considerably following the unusual incident.
Swedish skier Jonna Sundling, who topped the qualifying standings, described the scene as “cute” while her Norwegian rival Astrid Oyre Slind, finishing fifth, took the opportunity for light-hearted banter: “A dog is my least problem, a Swede is my biggest.”
Not all athletes shared such relaxed views about the canine intruder. Argentina’s Nahiara Gonzalez Diaz expressed bewilderment, stating, “I thought: What on earth is a dog doing here?” Greek competitor Konstantina Charalampido, who came last in the qualifiers, admitted she had initially believed the animal was a wolf, given its striking appearance.
Nazgul’s owner came forward after the race to explain the dog’s unexpected outing, speaking to Norwegian outlet VG. “He just disappeared, ran away from home. He is a very kind dog. Very stubborn, very sweet and very social. He always seeks contact with people. He doesn’t hurt people,” the owner said.
Despite the entertaining nature of the incident for many onlookers, cross-country skiing expert Fredrik Aukland offered a more sobering assessment. He warned that the dog’s interference “could have been a disaster,” highlighting the potential dangers of an animal running loose on an Olympic course where athletes travel at considerable speeds.
Nazgul’s appearance was not an isolated incident at this year’s Winter Olympics, as dogs have become a recurring feature throughout the tournament in Italy. One pooch was spotted among spectators at the figure skating, dressed in a Team USA jersey, while another dog captured attention online after wandering onto the downhill ski course.
As the Games continue, Nazgul’s escapade serves as a moment of levity amidst the serious competition, illustrating both the unpredictability of live events and the simple joys that can momentarily distract from top-tier sporting prowess.
