LAST BIATHLON TRIUMPH: UKRAINE AND POLAND SHINE AT TORINO 2025 FISU GAMES IN PRAGELATO
After five days of competitions, the biathlon circuit in Pragelato Ruà is coloured blue and yellow: like the colours of the flag of Ukraine, absolutely triumphant in the discipline at Torino 2025 FISU Games, with nine medals won by its athletes in the various competitions held (four gold, two silver, and three bronze). Better than Ukraine in the biathlon only Poland, which brought home six medals.
Yesterday the last challenge of the sport at the Universiade took place, with the women’s 12.5 km mass start and the men 15 km mass start. In the women’s competition the gold went to Daryna Chalyk, who finished with a time of 41:46.6 and three penalties, while the silver was won by her compatriot Oleksandra Merkushyna. Just behind was Germany’s Luise Müller. “This victory will stay with me forever, especially because I got to carry the Ukrainian flag as I crossed the finish line for the first time. Driving with the flag was such a precious and unforgettable experience.”, said Chalyk sharing her experience.
In the men’s race victory went to the Frenchman Nathanael Peaquin, who finished in 42:53.1 with three penalties. “This edition of FISU Games was amazing, one of the best experiences in my life, with a lot of good people, lot of smiles and a lot of good races”, said Peaquin. Silver for Sweden’s Karl Groenland and bronze for Kazakhstan’s Kirill Bauer.
COMPETITION REVIEW ALPINE SKI: Men’s Slalom
The final day of the Alpine Skiing competition in the mountains of Bardonecchia unfolded in an exciting display of talent and determination.
Before the second run, the slope was meticulously prepared to ensure optimal conditions. Out of the initial field, 59 athletes advanced to the second run, battling it out for the podium. Japan’s Takayuki Koyama emerged victorious, claiming the gold medal. “I was first in both runs because I gave it my all. This is not just an ordinary race; it’s a universal event, and I’m so grateful to be here and to have had the opportunity to showcase my skills.”, declared the Japanese athlete. Italy wins the silver medal, thanks to the incredible talent of Stefano Pizzato, who said: “I came to Bardonecchia knowing that if I skied well, I could achieve a great result, so I was determined to give it my all”. France’s Paul Silvestre rounded out the podium with the bronze. He was happy to say that: “The organization here is outstanding, the venue, accommodation, and overall environment are excellent. It’s also been an incredible opportunity for me to meet people and improve my English”