Skier Alexander Bolshunov brought Russia the first gold medal at the Beijing Olympics

At the start of the race, Bolshunov fell, but was able to make up for the lost time and return to the group of leaders. He covered the distance in 1 hour 16 minutes 9.8 seconds.

In second place is another representative of the Russian Federation - Denis Spitsov. Bronze went to Iivo Niskanen from Finland.

Earlier today, figure skater Kamila Valieva led the national team to first place in the team standings, beating the Americans.

It's worth reminding that on the eve of the Russian biathlete Alexander Loginov won a bronze medal in the mixed team relay in Beijing. The athlete said that he perceives the third place on the Olympic podium as a victory.