FIS Sprint races in Hintertux Glacier: the season takes off in style

The 2024-25 Telemark racing season kicked off in spectacular fashion at Hintertux Glacier (AUT) with two FIS Sprint races (29-30 November), hosted as part of the European Telemark season-opening festival, FreeHeeler.

Over the two days, 120 starts from athletes representing nations including Andorra, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Ireland, Norway, and Switzerland marked a strong beginning. The festival attracted 500 telemark skiers throughout the week, creating an atmosphere akin to a World Cup event. Most of last season's favorites were in attendance, using the races as an extension of their autumn preparation, particularly for teams from France, Great Britain, Canada, and Norway, who trained in Hintertux during October and November. These FIS Sprint races also offered younger and less experienced athletes a chance to compete alongside World Cup champions.

The road to World Cup rivalries

While early competition hinted at a France-Norway showdown, some notable names were absent. Swiss star Nicolas Michel, returning from injury, and Léa Lathion (SUI), the previous Parallel Sprint Globe winner, are expected to join the action at the Pinzolo World Cup. Jasmin Taylor (GBR), balancing her racing schedule with commitments to the British Association of Snowsports Instructors (BASI), only competed on the second day.

Alex Kessler, Race Director for the FIS Sprint in Hintertux, praised the conditions:
"We had the best conditions on the Hintertux Glacier—cold and sunny weather, a perfectly groomed slope, and a fantastic team of volunteers who prepared an excellent jump and loom. The judging team was well-prepared following a rules meeting, and I hope everyone was satisfied with our work."

Women’s Sprint races

The French team dominated the podium on the first day, with Augustine Carliez (1st), Argeline Tan Bouquet (2nd), and Laly Chaucheprat (3rd). Reflecting on her victory, Augustine Carliez said:
"The first race was a success! Conditions were optimal, and and much better than the day before! It's always a special feeling when you start again, you wonder if the autumn preparation is going to pay off... Of course there are expectations; every competitor on the circuit dreads that moment of truth!It was great to be back at the start, with the atmosphere that we love so much, despite the tension. But it's relief that dominates for me after this race. It's true that the penalties fell, and that reminded us that our sport isn't just about speed. I limited the damage by taking 'only' 2 penalties, and I didn't need too many more because the gaps were so small! It’s kicked off the season in the best possible way!"

Day two saw Argeline Tan Bouquet take the win, followed by Gøril Strøm Eriksen (NOR) in 2nd and Jasmin Taylor (GBR) in 3rd. Emerging talents like Berit Junger (GER) are gaining consistency, with her 8th place finish marking progress within the top 10. Expectations are building for Carliez and Eriksen as the season progresses.

Men’s Sprint races

The French men followed suit, claiming a 100% French podium on the first day: Théo Sillon (1st), Charly Petex (2nd), and Junior World Champion Alexis Page (3rd). Sillon, returning from injury, noted:
"Not bad for a comeback! I'm feeling good on my skis and I'm back in contact with the best French skiers, so it's all good for the future! And yes, as soon as I get the chance, I'll put that double back on!"

Norwegian veteran Eirik Rykhus, now retired from World Cup racing, surprised with an 8th-place finish, demonstrating the lasting appeal of Telemark racing.
"As a former World Cup racer I still love to compete in telemark races, and especially against good athletes," Rykhus said. "I skied two good runs in the Fridays' FIS telemark sprint classic. I enjoyed the snow conditions, it was an excellent race slope, and I’m inspired to race in the World Masters Championship at Les Contamines Montjoie next March."

Day two belonged to Trym Nygaard Loeken (NOR), with a commanding win ahead of Elie Nabot (FRA, 2nd) and his brother Mikkel Nygaard Loeken (NOR, 3rd).

Promising juniors like Timo Walser (SUI) and Maximilian Walcher (AUT) also gained valuable experience, underscoring the importance of these early-season races.

A strong start

With its exceptional organization and vibrant atmosphere, Hintertux has proven itself a cornerstone of the Telemark calendar. Teams will next refine their skills at the FIS Sprint races in Meiringen-Hasliberg (SUI) on 15-16 December before the World Cup season opens in Pinzolo (ITA) on 20-21 December.

Alex Kessler summed up the spirit of the event:
"I had tears in my eyes when I saw the dance floor packed with Telemark skiers, festival guests, instructors from the Telemark Campus, and athletes on Saturday night. It made my heart beat faster! It was a fantastic start to the season, and I’ll continue working to make Hintertux a prime destination for training and competition."