Jónar Sebastian Giljan Grímsson is making waves in the Norwegian skiing scene, currently topping the world rankings in freestyle skiing, a sport rapidly gaining popularity among ski enthusiasts in Norway. The fifteen-year-old Icelandic prodigy is setting his sights on the Olympics, demonstrating remarkable prowess in the sport’s big air discipline.
Starting to ski at the tender age of two, Jónar has dedicated the last five years to honing his skills in freestyle skiing. His efforts have paid off spectacularly over the past year as he has excelled in international FIS competitions, leading the world rankings in the big air category for his age group and ranking high in the slopestyle discipline. These two styles are key components of competitive freestyle skiing.
For more inspirational content, check out his Instagram profile.
Freestyle skiing is experiencing a significant surge in popularity in Norway, which is already home to the Olympic champion in the big air category, Birk Ruud. The sport, known for its breathtaking jumps and aerial tricks, demands courage and skill, offering spectacular entertainment for spectators.
Since establishing its freestyle division in 2013 under the Norwegian Ski Federation, the number of participants has soared to about 5,000. Norway also boasts world champions in both men’s and women’s categories. Despite his young age, Jónar has begun competing in the adult category and is expected to face off against Ruud in an upcoming April event.
In March, Jónar clinched the county championship in the 15-18 age group series, competing in three out of four events and securing enough points for the title. The competitions included big air events in Drammen and Kongsberg and slopestyle in Gol and Vikesund. His absence from one event was due to his participation in the adult category.
Fans can follow Jónar’s journey and performances via his Instagram page. The young athlete’s family, residing in Kongsberg for fifteen years, includes parents Elsa Giljan Kristjánsdóttir and Grímur Rúnarsson. Interestingly, the family’s initial holiday to Kongsberg when Jónar was four months old became a permanent move.
Currently competing for Kongsberg Freestyle Club, Jónar’s long-term goal is to qualify for the Olympics, aiming for the 2030 Games, and to participate in the world championship series. This ambition holds the exciting possibility of Iceland securing a contender in future Winter Olympics.