The second stop of the ISMF Youth World Cup circuit in Forni di Sopra, Italy, featured an exciting sprint race, with favorable weather conditions allowing for thrilling competition. A total of 15 countries were represented, showcasing young talent from across the globe, with seven different countries capturing at least a medal today.
U18 Women
The U18 women’s race included only ten athletes, with the top six from the qualification round securing spots in the Final. Giorgia Pollini of Italy celebrated victory, thrilling local fans as she showcased her skills, finishing ahead of Ani Pumu from China, who took home the silver medal. Pumu was the previous Youth World Cup champion from Crevacol. Spain’s Nuria Balager closed the podium in third, marking a fantastic debut in international racing as one of the youngest competitors. Completing the final were Enya Summermatter (SUI), Theresa Schivalocchi (ITA), and Elena Beatrice Boboc (ROU).
U18 Men
The U18 men’s final was filled with drama. German athlete Moritz Bauregger faced a setback when he discovered a broken ski binding just 30 seconds before the start. Despite running to get another ski from a teammate, he started the race a few seconds behind the rest of the competitors. The race saw Chinese skier Langjia Gongsong lead from the start, maintaining his position to claim the gold. Austria’s Killian Rettensteiner followed in second, while Italy’s Gioele Migliorati secured the bronze. Luca Fuentes Perez (ESP) narrowly defeated Josef Nakladal (CZE) to finish fourth, while Bauregger ended the Final in last place.
U20 Women
In the U20 women’s category, Helena Euringer from Germany dominated the day by winning her qualification, semifinal, and final heats, significantly improving from her previous 7th place finish at Crevacol. France’s Camille Maupoix earned the silver, while Robine Deseyn (SUI), younger sister of Lausanne Youth Olympics gold medallist Thibe, took bronze. Rounding out the top six were Emma Albretch (AUT), Silvia Boscacci (ITA), and Melissa Bertolini (ITA).
U20 Men
Andorra’s Max Palmitjavila had a remarkable performance, winning his heat, semifinal, and final, showcasing his excellent form. Theo Voutaz (FRA) finished in second place, and Umberto Ferrazza (ITA) captured the bronze medal. The final was completed by Enricco Pellegrini (ITA), Malik Uldry (SUI), and Lorenzo Milesi (ITA), despite the absence of notable podium contenders such as Eric Canovi (ITA), Silvano Wolf (AUT), and Xavier Lehner (SUI) due to illness right before the start of the race.
The excitement continues tomorrow in Forni di Sopra with the highly anticipated Mixed Relay race!