HELSINKI (AP) - Former Olympic cross-country ski champion Mika Myllyla of Finland has died at 41.
Police say he was found dead Tuesday. They declined to give details except to say no crime was involved. National broadcaster YLE reports he was found dead in his apartment in the northwest town of Kokkola.
Myllyla was one of Finland's most successful skiers. He won six Olympic medals, including the gold medal in the classical 30-kilometer race at the 1998 Nagano Olympics. He was a four-time world champion.
He was banned for two years for a positive doping test in 2001. He then made a comeback but retired in 2005.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
I'm very sorry for the loss of Mika.He was a great person,and a great sportsman.My deepest condolences goes to his family,his three children especially,freinds and fans.You should all be proud of Mika.Mika showed us both sides,and only great human beeings do that.To Mika:May you rest in peace,i will miss you as many of us will.
Torbjørn Engan Oslo Norway.
Torbjørn Engan
July 09, 2011 | OSLO
WE ARE SENDING OUR LOVE,PRAYERS,&CONDOLENCES TO THE MYLLYLA FAMILY,FRIENDS,FANS,&ALL WHO KNEW MIKA.
KEN&MARY O'DANIEL
July 08, 2011 | DAYTON, OH
I am sorry for your loss. Please draw comfort from this promise: "He is healing the broken hearted ones and is binding up their painful spots."
Psalm 147:3
Camille
July 08, 2011 | OH
we will miss you....
July 07, 2011
Rest In Peace <3
July 06, 2011
Sad. My sympathies to his family and loved ones.
Deborah Richardson
July 06, 2011 | Goodyear, AZ
A great loss for Finland and, of course, the family. Way too young to have left this world. His achievements will be honored and remembered for a long time to come.
Klaus von Hagen
July 06, 2011 | Morgan Hill, CA
Rest in peace.
Henryk Zaleski
July 06, 2011 | Lake Placid, FL
Dear Myllyla Family: There is no pain like losing a friend and family member especially one that is so young and vibrant. I am so sorry for your loss, but know that according to the Bible, there is a future hope for all of you (John 3:16). Stick close to your family and friends for strength and comfort.
Shay Robins
July 06, 2011 | Baltimore, MD