Table-toppers Norway established a commanding lead at the ongoing Winter Olympics in Milano and Cortina, Italy, on Tuesday.

The sports extravaganza, which has now completed half its schedule, saw Norway sitting atop the medal table with 12 gold, 7 silver, and 9 bronze medal— totalling 28.

As many as seven gold medals were up for grabs on day 11, with Norway claiming gold in the men’s Nordic combined (large hill/10km), while Germany and Austria took silver and bronze in a display of Nordic strength.

In the women’s snowboard slopestyle, a Canadian rider dazzled on the slopes with a creative, high-amplitude run featuring innovative spins and rail tricks to earn the top prize.

The United States and New Zealand took silver and bronze in an event showcasing freestyle progression.

In the men’s two-man bobsleigh, a Swiss pilot and brakeman posted the fastest four-run aggregate to secure gold, with Germany silver and Latvia bronze in tight sliding action.

The latest medal standings after 74 of 116 events:

Norway: 12 gold, 7 silver, 9 bronze (28 total) 

Italy (hosts): 8 gold, 4 silver, 11 bronze (23 total) 

United States: 6 gold, 8 silver, 5 bronze (19 total) 

Netherlands: 6 gold, 5 silver, 1 bronze (12 total) 

Austria: 5 gold, 7 silver, 3 bronze (15 total)

Hosts Italy managed only one silver medal on Tuesday, widening the gap between the top two sides in the competition.

With the Games now past halfway, the focus shifts towards climactic finales in alpine skiing, ice hockey, and sliding events.

Also read: Norway’s gold rush continues at Winter Olympics