Part of Winter Olympic history will be written this Thursday in Bormio: shortly before 10 a.m., ski mountaineering will officially make its Olympic debut. The first day will begin with the women's sprint (heats at 9:50 a.m., semi-finals at 12:55 p.m., final at 13:55 p.m.) and the men's sprint (heats at 10:30 a.m., semi-finals at 13:25 p.m., final at 14:15 p.m.). The promise: a spectacular show, suspense, and a picture-perfect setting.
36 athletes for three events
Ski mountaineering received approval from the IOC Executive Board in July 2021. This is significant, as it was necessary to go back to Nagano 1998 for a new sport to be included in the Winter Games, namely snowboarding. Ski mountaineering arrives with a rich history, as competitions have existed for almost a century. It has become more structured in recent decades with the organization of the first World Championships in 2002 in France. Gaining increasing recognition, it was included in the program of the Lausanne 2020 Winter Youth Olympic Games. And its growth has continued. At the time of the announcement of our integration into the Olympic program, we had 38 members; today, we have 55. " emphasizes ISMF President Regula Meier.
36 athletes will compete in this inaugural event. Three events are on the program: the men's sprint, the women's sprint, and the mixed relay. Since the announcement of their entry into the Games, there has been increased specialization and a growing interest in new disciplines, which has significantly raised the level of competition. "That's the opinion of American Griffin Briley." We benefit from greater exposure and support from federations and NOCs; it's exciting to be part of the larger Olympic family. Personally, this recognition now allows me to make a living from my sport. " adds Belgian Maximilien Drion du Chapois, already confirming the impact of the Games.
Fun and exciting
Ski mountaineering knows it needs to convince, especially since many other sports are already knocking on the door of the French Alps 2030. The sprint format (610m with a 70m vertical gain) will offer a " fun and exciting “,” promises Maximilien Drion du Chapois, with a two-minute climb "Then a descent." You never get bored, it's fast-paced from beginning to end. " says the Swiss Jon Kistler.
The athletes will first have to climb the slopes of the Stelvio – some sections with skis equipped with skins, others without. Stairs are included in the course, as in cyclocross. They will then have to descend back to the finish line. It's a great track " explained Austrian Sarah Dreier last year, during the World Cup event held there. The downhill section was special, with big turns. » Spaniard Oriol Cardona Coll expects “ lots of action "Given the layout, we can't help but be charmed."
