If you ain’t first, you’re last: Max Novak

Nordic

If you ain’t first, you’re last: Max Novak

Swedish cross-country skier Max Novak, who started his sport relatively late, is now focused successfully on long distance races. He won his first Ski Classic race at the 2022 Pustertaler Skimarathon followed by second place at Birkebeiner Rennet during the same year. The ambitious winner of the 21l22 Ski Classics youth classification still has a lot of plans for the future.

 

Max Novak after winning a long-distance race in Sweden

When did you start skiing?

At 12 years old, when my family moved north in Sweden.

When and why did you decide to go for long distance skiing in particular?

After my first Vasaloppet 2019, I finally found my purpose as a skier.

What was your biggest moment in your skiing career?

Winning the Swedish season opener in 2020.

What are the top 3 things we should know about you?

I play the piano.

I study dentistry.

I am a fashion junkie.

Max Novak double-poling hard in a long-distance Nordic race

What is your favorite quote or personal motto?

If you ain’t first, you’re last.

Which ritual do you have before the race?

Carefully planning where to throw my hat off.

Where would you like to travel to?

To visit my girlfriend who is on an exchange semester in Singapore.

Max Novak wearing sunglasses and holding on to red Nordic skiing poles.

What is your favorite hobby on a day off?

Just do as little physical activity as possible.

How would your roommate describe you?

As a sleep-hater (when I’m in good shape).

What does Fischer mean to you?

I’ve been skiing on Fischer since my first junior years. Fischer is skiing for me.