ALPINE SKI, JWSC 2012 - Roccaraso | 5 March 2012 -- There was no doubt that Slovenia was on a winning stroll this afternoon in Roccaraso. Starting the team event by beating France 4-0 in the first competition, the team was easily qualified for the semi final. Next competitor was Austria, who had a bit of unluck with one late start and one crash, and Slovenia could once again claim the victory with four out of four wins. In the big final, home favourites Italy was the contendor, but it wasn't Italy's day today. Winning the three first heats, Italy came back and won the last one, but team Slovenia could finally scream of joy, having won their first gold medal in this Junior Championships.

A total of 8 nations took part in the team event. First out was Switzerland against Norway, where Switzerland took an easy win with 3-1. Despite having the gold medaillist in giant slalom, Ragnhild Mowinckel, Norway had to accept the lost and watch the other teams fight for the medals. Italy and Germany won 2 heats each, but Italy won on the best time. Austria also qualified for the semi-final having beaten Canada 3-1. With Switzerland meeting Austria in the second semi-final, it was time for the German speaking rivalry. Switzerland did not have their two medal winners from the men's team in the competition, but the young athletes performed well regardless. Switzerland won the first heat, followed by Austria taking the second, then Switzerland won again, by finally winning the last heat and securing the bronze medal.

In stunning sunshine, Slovenia could celebrate their first medal in the Junior World Ski Championships. Next competition on the schedule is ladies super g, taking place tomorrow.
For live timing from the races, please click here: http://sci.ficr.it/

RESULTS:

1. Slovenia (Ula Hafner, Zan Kranjec, Ana Bucik, Misel Zerak)

2. Italy (Karoline Pichler, Giordano Ronci, Nicole Agnelli, Alex Zingerle)

3. Switzerland (Jasmina Suter, Luca Aerni, Andrea Ellenberger, Bernhard Niederberger)

Switzerland and Norway are currently leading the Marc Hodler ranking for best nation in the Junior Championships

FISalpine.com
Monday 5 March 2012

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