Skiri Trophy XCountry 2017

Joy of moving occupied Val di Fiemme! Over 1.100 children and teenagers aged 8 to 16 from 8 different countries and representing 110 sports associations challenged each other during two days of fun and competition at the Skiri Trophy XCountry 2017, once known as the Topolino Cross Country Skiing Trophy: a key international event for young cross country skiers that Kinder+Sport supports with great enthusiasm. Physical movement, learning, integration and friendship are some of the common values that bring for the first time this Trophy and Kinder+Sport together.

Now at its 34th edition, the former Trofeo Topolino was launched in 1983 by the Gruppo Sportivo Castello di Fiemme to provide the sport of cross country skiing with a friendly event for junior athletes. Four categories race with classic cross country rules: Baby (ages 8 to 9), Cuccioli (10 to 11), Ragazzi (12 to 13) and Allievi (over 13).

The Trophy, that can be truly considered an open junior world championship, is certified by the Italian Ski Federation and attracts some of the greatest international names of cross country skiing, making each edition a sporting feast of passion and solidarity.

The competition began Saturday January 21st with the Baby and Cuccioli boys and girls races. Then came the celebrated Skiri Trophy Revival, a race that since 2008 brings back winners of past competitions, now adults. Sunday January 22nd the Ragazzi and Allievi raced in an ideal climate, with warm temperatures and a strong and positive competitive spirit.

Special attention was given to events off the course, to keep the young competitors entertained throughout their stay. Giant mascots moved around between the ski runs, creating improvised shows and posing for pictures. Immediately recognisable were the mascot of the Fiemme Nordic Ski World Championships and the Gardaland Pass Pass Clown, who also performed on stage at the Theatre in Tesero. Dance and music were organised by the girls of the “Non solo danza” association from Cavalese and the Dolomiten Bier Band, whose members composed a new hymn for the Trophy. After all the races were finished, the show moved to the Castle in Fiemme for the official award giving ceremony.

The organisers, led by Nicoletta Nones, herself a past winner, were extremely satisfied with the 2017 edition: “Our goal”, she said, “ is to bring here boys and girls from different countries to share their passion, fun, entertainment and respect for others”.

Franco Nones, Gold medallist in Grenoble 1968 and first Italian gold medallist in this sport, added that “Sports, especially in a young age, must be both a game and a school of life”. A perfect match for the Kinder+Sport spirit.

More info can be found on the Trophy’s website: www.skiritrophy.com