Downhill mania in Santa Caterina

The famous Deborah Compagnoni slope in Santa Caterina Valfurva played host to the FIS Para Alpine Skiing World Cup for the very first time this week, and it delivered a thrilling debut. With challenging weather forecasts, organizers made the bold call to run both Downhill races back-to-back on Wednesday following Tuesday’s training sessions.

The result? A spectacular two days of world-class skiing, made possible by meticulous preparation and teamwork. Local Chief of Race Alessi Mauri reflected on the effort behind the scenes:
" Two spectacular days. We worked with great focus. I’m thankful to everyone who contributed to making this first Para Alpine World Cup in Santa Caterina a success. The slope is truly in optimal condition."

Athletes embrace the challenge

The athletes were equally enthusiastic about the slope, known for its speed and technical demands.

"It’s real fast sometimes, very turny. It’s not an easy slope. It’s good, it’s great, it’s fun. Everybody has a smile arriving," said Roger Puig Davi (AND).

USA’s Jesse Keefe echoed the sentiment:
"This mountain is awesome, I love it so much. Definitely one of the best Downhills I’ve skied. Super fun, super great. I love the rolls, love the snow. The staff has been awesome. I’m excited to come back if we ever get the chance."

Double victories define the day

Michaela Gosselin (CAN), Johannes Aigner with guide Nico Haberl (AUT), and Robin Cuche (SUI) dominated the day, each securing double victories in their respective categories. For Gosselin, the races were particularly special:

Team Canada shone brightly throughout the event. Kurt Oatway claimed victory in the first Downhill and a strong second-place finish in the second race, keeping his remarkable streak of seven consecutive podiums alive. The pair Kalle Ericsson and his guide Sierra Smith secured back-to-back third-place finishes, while Alexis Guimond made a triumphant return to competition after injury, capturing third place in the second race of the Men’s Standing category, where the gap between the 2nd and 7th positions was a razor-thin 0.79 seconds.

Notable performances and unexpected setbacks

Italy had reason to celebrate as Martina Vozza and her guide Ylenia Sabidussi secured their first win of the season in the second Downhill in the Women’s Vision Impaired category. In the Women’s Sitting category, experienced Dutch skier Barbara Van Bergen claimed victory in the first race but was unable to finish the second, opening the door for USA’s Saylor O’Brien to take the top spot. Meanwhile, Germany’s Anna-Lena Forster was notably absent from the start gate as she continues to recover from a concussion.

The FIS Para Alpine Skiing World Cup now heads to the iconic slopes of St. Moritz, where athletes will compete in two Giant Slalom races this weekend.