38 years since the first edition, Skiri Trophy XCountry is about to come back 750 young cross-country skiers registered to the ‘mini’ world championship
On Saturday 22 U10, U12 and Revival, Sunday for U14 and U16
A safe and fun event for young people and families Once upon a time, there was the cross-country ‘Topolino Trophy’, today Skiri Trophy XCountry. It was taking place on the 22nd January 1984 in Brozzin, Val di Fiemme (Italy), with a gunshot signing the start of 400 participants. After the first two editions in Brozzin, the troop of young skiers moved to Passo Lavazè for the third edition, becoming a FIS race. In 1990, the event took place in Lago di Tesero. The following year, the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships were happening in Val di Fiemme so the Trophy got back to Passo Lavazè for two editions. From 1993 until today, Lago di Tesero has been home to the Trophy. 2017 said goodbye to Topolino Trophy and welcomed Skiri Trophy XCountry, always organised by GS Castello. When looking through past editions, you can see how enthusiasm and hospitality of the organisers towards the little athletes coming from all over the world and volunteers have never changed. Today, after 38 years enthusiasm seems unchanged. Nicoletta Nones, event coordinator, proposes two competitions days dedicated to young skiers, on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd January, at the traditional location, the cross-country stadium of Lago di Tesero. Up to now, 750 athletes coming from Croatia, Slovenia, Spain, Andorra and Italy registered for the races and the organising committee assures a safe event, according to all ongoing Covid rules. Entries are allowed for over 12 only with a negative swab with 48h validity, while those with Super Green Pass do not need any swab. On Saturday 22nd, at 2 pm is time for U10 and U12, then Skiri Trophy Revival is at 3.30 pm. Sunday is for U14 and U16, starting at 9.30 am. Awarding ceremonies take place in Lago di Tesero after each race; moreover, on Sunday there is a special awarding for ‘Fedelissimi’, meaning those participating to the last eight editions. Nicoletta Nones takes the opportunity to thank all the sponsors, Kinder Ferrero that with its project ‘JOY OF MOVING’ promotes exercise and the joy of an active life in 28 countries; the South Tyrol brand of sport clothing Saxe, CR Val di Fiemme, ITAS insurances and APT Fiemme, and all the volunteers and institutions sustaining this event. “It was the most important race of the season, I got second at Topolino Trophy and I would have never thought to get in the national team a few years later”, these are the words of Marianna Longa, silver and bronze medals in World Championships and 10 times on the World Cup podium. “I remember the party, the awarding ceremonies, but above all the atmosphere you were living in Castello, and the people’s love” wrote a Cristian guy, called “Zorro” Zorzi, Olympic and World Championship gold medals. Who knows, perhaps among the 750 mini-champions of this year might hide a new Longa or a new Zorzi, soon we will know!