Tragic Loss of Norwegian Biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken
The sporting world is reeling from the sudden and untimely death of Norwegian biathlete Sivert Guttorm Bakken, who was found deceased in his hotel room in Passo Lavazè, Italy, on December 23rd. He was just 27 years old.
The cause of Bakken’s death remains unclear, with further details yet to be disclosed. However, Italian media sources have begun to piece together the events leading up to this tragic incident. Reports from the Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that Bakken’s teammates raised concerns when he failed to appear for breakfast. When attempts to contact him went unanswered, a group ventured to his room, where they made the heart-wrenching discovery.
Bakken was in northern Italy with the Norwegian national team, engaged in a training camp as they prepared for the Christmas break.
A Community in Mourning
The shockwaves of Bakken’s passing have struck deep within the Norwegian biathlon community. A memorial service convened in his hometown of Lillehammer on Tuesday evening, drawing nearly a hundred mourners on short notice, as reported by Dagbladet.
Rabbi Ann Cathrin Opsann Tomten, who attended the service, shared her insights with the publication: “With such little notice, we were fortunate to see so many people come together. It was a moment of solace amid sadness.” She spent several hours with Bakken’s family, emphasizing the profound impact the news has had on them. “They are grappling with a reality that feels unreal—this came as a bolt from the blue,” she said, expressing her sympathy for their unexpected grief.
An Athlete in His Prime
Just two days before his death, Bakken was actively competing, placing 20th in the 15-kilometer mass start race. His career was marked by significant achievements, including a crowning victory in the 2021–22 season at the Holmenkollen World Cup mass start. Throughout his career, he celebrated four World Cup victories, three of which were secured in relay events.
Bakken’s path to success, however, was not without its challenges. He faced a prolonged hiatus from competition due to health issues, including a heart attack in the spring of 2022. After undergoing heart surgery for atrial fibrillation, he battled recurring health problems that temporarily sidelined him. Yet, demonstrating remarkable determination, Bakken made a triumphant return to the Norwegian men’s national team nearly two years later.
Representing the club Vingrom IL, Bakken was regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Norwegian biathlon, poised to leave his mark in the upcoming Olympic season.
As the community reflects on his life and achievements, Bakken will be remembered not only as a talented athlete but as a beloved teammate and friend, taken far too soon.