The Nordic World Ski Championships in Trondheim are in full swing – and already a success for the Swiss athletes: they have won three medals so far. Hanspeter Betschart, chief physician at the Berit Sportclinic in Speicher and chief medical officer of Swiss Olympic, is accompanying the team as the Swiss Ski Nordic association's physician. He provides insights into his intense daily routine at the World Championships, talks about the most common challenges, and explains what he finds particularly fascinating about working with top athletes.
Hanspeter Betschart, what is your role at the Nordic World Ski Championships in Trondheim?
I am on site as the association doctor responsible for Swiss Ski Nordic. My job is to ensure the medical care of the athletes – from prevention and acute care to recovery after the competitions.
What does a typical day look like for you during the World Championships?
The day starts early, sometimes with a short jog before breakfast. After that, I have consultations with athletes who have health issues. During the competitions, I am right there on site – either as a supervisor in the start and finish areas, at a pole station, or providing refreshments during the longer cross-country races. I accompany the athletes to any doping controls. And of course, I hope that I can often just cheer them on! In the evening, there are team meetings to discuss the next day. Basically, I am on call around the clock – medical problems don't stick to schedules.
What are the most common health problems at a major event like these World Championships?
Infections of the upper and lower respiratory tract are a major challenge, especially in the current very wet weather here. Added to this is the well-known asthma, which can be exacerbated in cold weather. Injuries are less common in Nordic skiing, but when they do occur, they are usually the result of falls.
How did you prepare the Swiss athletes for these World Championships?
Infection prevention is an important issue. Colds and other infections are a major risk, especially during the peak season. We make sure that athletes protect themselves in risky situations, focus on specific supplements, and regularly monitor values such as iron and vitamin levels. In addition, there is a comprehensive annual sports medical check-up to ensure that everyone is optimally prepared.
How important is recovery during such an intense competition program?
Extremely important! Many athletes have several races within a few days – sometimes even on two consecutive days. Without a well-thought-out recovery plan, such performances would not be possible. Finding the right balance between exertion and recovery is a key task.
How do you deal with emergencies when things suddenly become critical?
The most important thing is to stay calm. In moments like these, the only thing that matters is finding a solution – and often it has to be found quickly. Especially when you're abroad, medical options are sometimes limited, so you have to improvise. Experience helps enormously in making the right decisions in situations like these.
What fascinates you about working with top athletes?
The incredible emotions associated with the sport. Every single day is characterized by dedication, precision, and the pursuit of perfection. I am always impressed by the meticulousness with which the athletes prepare for that one moment when everything has to come together. Being able to contribute a small part to this is a great motivation for me.
How do you deal with the pressure that comes with this responsibility?
I rarely feel pressure because we have a great team that supports each other. And when things do get stressful, I take an hour to exercise – that's my personal outlet.
Which moment in Trondheim has impressed you the most so far?
Definitely the team spirit in the Swiss team. The atmosphere is just great! And of course the successes are something very special – after all, we are currently experiencing the most successful Nordic World Ski Championships for Switzerland ever.
Source interview: "The incredible emotions are what drive me" | Sport
