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Norwegian nearly blows Olympic biathlon gold with early celebration

It never pays to get ahead of yourself, particularly in an Olympic race.Norway’s Emil Hegle Svendsen nearly threw away a gold medal in the men’s biathlon after victoriously pumping his arms in the air just inches before crossing the finish line.France’s Martin Fourcade surged from behind him, trying to take advantage of the moment—but ultimately failed to snatch the gold in the 15 km mass
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Norway's Emil Hegle Svendsen (9) and France's Martin Fourcade (2) cross the finish line  in the Men's Biathlon 15 km Mass Start at the Laura...
Norway's Emil Hegle Svendsen (9) and France's Martin Fourcade (2) cross the finish line Tuesday in the Men's Biathlon 15 km during the Sochi Winter Olympics.ODD ANDERSEN / Today

It never pays to get ahead of yourself, particularly in an Olympic race.

Norway’s Emil Hegle Svendsen nearly threw away a gold medal in the men’s biathlon after victoriously pumping his arms in the air just inches before crossing the finish line.

France’s Martin Fourcade surged from behind him, trying to take advantage of the moment—but ultimately failed to snatch the gold in the 15 km mass start.

Watch the incredible photo-finish moment here.