Three-time Olympic champion Alexander Bolshunov secured third place in the quarterfinals of the sprint at the first stage of the Russian Ski Racing Cup.
Bolshunov clocked a time of 3 minutes and 12.15 seconds, finishing just 0.29 seconds behind the leader Ivan Bezmaternykh.
The first stage of the Russian Cup is taking place from November 23 to 26. The second stage will also be held in the village of Vershina Tey from December 1 to 3. Originally, it was scheduled to occur in Tyumen, but due to poor weather conditions, it was moved.