How Rosie Fordham leads the way in a race 'everybody comes out for'

Rosie Fordham, Australia's leading cross-country skier, exudes energy even on the phone, preparing her skis for a race. Cross-country skiing is an intense full-body workout, requiring upper and lower body muscles, and a high aerobic demand. It is one of the most grueling physical challenges due to sub-zero temperatures and high-altitude conditions.

Fordham, Australia's top cross-country skier, won silver at the FIS U23 World Ski Championships last year in the 10k interval skating race. She has also achieved top-20 finishes in the FIS World Cup and the highest-ever finish for Australia at the Winter Olympics, placing 29th in the 50km mass start event in Val di Fiemme. Fordham believes that previous years lacked attention for cross-country skiing, but now, the sport is gaining recognition.

The Kangaroo Hoppet, a 21km race in Victoria, showcases the popularity of endurance sports in Australia. Fordham, who has won the women's race the past two years, emphasized the strong support from the Australian public, ensuring that cross-country skiing is not forgotten even when competing overseas.