Slalom stars shine in Tignes as rivalries and milestones define the action
Dec 18, 2024·Para AlpineThe Para Alpine Ski World Cup delivered a spectacular showcase of world-class skiing in Tignes, France. Athletes across all categories pushed the limits, with standout performances, intense rivalries, and emotional milestones captivating fans and competitors alike.
Austrian breakthrough in Women’s Vision Impaired
Making a remarkable return to competition, Elina Stary (AUT), guided by Vanessa Josefa Arnold, delivered a commanding performance in Tignes by winning both slalom races. Her success was built on strong first runs, allowing her to fend off consistent pressure from Italy’s Martina Vozza and Ylenia Sabidussi. Veronika Aigner (AUT), alongside her sister and guide Elisabeth, rebounded from a challenging first day to join Stary on the podium in the second race, completing an Austrian 1-2 finish.
Comeback Queens in Women’s Standing
Anna-Maria Rieder (GER) capitalized on a rare misstep by Ebba Årsjö (SWE), taking victory in the first slalom after the Swedish star exited in the opening run. Årsjö, however, bounced back in style, dominating the second race with the fastest times in both runs. France’s Aurélie Richard made an impressive season debut, earning her first podium in the second slalom.
Forster dominates as podium battle heats up
Anna-Lena Forster (GER) reclaimed her winning streak in the Women’s Sitting category after a rare podium miss in Steinach am Brenner. She swept all runs in Tignes, while fierce competition unfolded behind her. Momoka Muraoka (JPN) secured two second-place finishes, and Sitong Liu (CHN) celebrated her first podium of the season in the second slalom, edging out Audrey Pascual Seco (ESP)(third of the first slalom), who was forced to settle for a DNF.
Austro-Italian duel in Men’s Vision Impaired
Johannes Aigner (AUT) and his guide Nico Haberl, along with Italy’s Giacomo Bertagnolli and Andrea Ravelli, continued their thrilling rivalry in Tignes. Each duo claimed a win, with additional podium finishes by Poland’s Michal Golas and Kacper Walas, and Germany’s Alexander Rauen and Jeremias Wilke.
Bauchet nears 100 World Cup podiums
Arthur Bauchet (FRA) was unstoppable in Tignes, securing two more wins in the Men’s Standing category to bring his World Cup podium tally to 99. “Only one more to go before 100—it’s such a special number. I can’t wait for the next race!” he shared. Meanwhile, Aaron Lindstroem (SWE) claimed his first podium of the season in the first slalom but missed his chance for a maiden victory after a DNF in the second run of the second slalom, where Federico Pelizzari (ITA) recorded the fastest time to secure second place. Austria’s Thomas Grochar continued his consistent form, adding another third-place finish to his season tally.
Pedersen perfect, Braz-Dagand breaks through
Jesper Pedersen (NOR) remained dominant in the Men’s Sitting category, taking victories in both slaloms. The local hero, Lou Braz-Dagand (FRA), thrilled the home crowd with a third-place finish in the first race and stepped up to second in the next.
Tignes delivers an exceptional event
Christian Fémy, Director of Winter Sports at the French Handisport Federation, lauded the success of the competition:
“It was a truly exceptional event. From the logistics and organization by the Tignes resort to the engagement of everyone involved, everything was top-notch. And for the French team, the results were the cherry on top, with podiums and victories showcasing a strong collective performance.”
The next stage of the French Alps Para Alpine Ski Tour 2024 will take place in Courchevel on 19 and 20 December.