Mixed Relay under perfect conditions

After a rest day on Wednesday, competition resumed with an intense Mixed Relay event. Perfect weather and bright sunshine set the stage for an exciting final, offering spectators ideal conditions to witness a spectacular race.

3/27/2025

Challenging start, ideal conditions for the final

The morning began with limited visibility, prompting a 30-minute delay of the qualification rounds—a decision that proved to be the right call. As soon as the races started, the skies cleared, allowing for excellent visibility along the entire course.

Technical and tactical demands on the track

The Mixed Relay tested both skill and strategy: Each team consisted of two athletes—one man and one woman—who alternated turns, each completing two laps. The course featured a demanding 90-meter climb, a fast downhill section, another steep ascent with a short running segment, and a rapid final descent, making it a true test of endurance and technique.

In the qualification round, athletes started at 30-second intervals, aiming to secure the best possible position for the final. Even the event mascot, “Murmeli,” took to the course, providing entertainment for spectators.

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Dramatic battle for bronze in the final

The final started with a mass start for the women. Switzerland’s Marianne Fatton took an early lead, closely followed by Alba De Silvestro (Italy) and Tatjana Paller (Germany). After the first exchange, Pierre Mettan took over for Switzerland, briefly holding the lead before Italy, Germany, and France surged ahead.

In the third lap, Fatton fought back, bringing Switzerland back into podium contention. The final lap turned into a thrilling battle: While Italy’s Nicolò Ernesto Canclini secured victory ahead of Germany’s Finn Hösch, the fight for bronze was intense. Mettan delivered a powerful sprint finish, narrowly holding off France’s Baptiste Ellmenreich to claim third place for Switzerland.

A celebration of international sportsmanship

Following the official flower ceremony, the Open Relay provided a lively conclusion to the day’s events. Eleven international teams—featuring athletes, organizers, and military personnel—competed, with participants from Uzbekistan, Romania, Sweden, and the USA joining the race.

For Swiss bronze medalists Fatton and Mettan, the atmosphere was a standout moment. “This competition is truly special—you can feel the ‘Friendship through Sport’ spirit on and off the course,” said Mettan after the race. The event was a powerful showcase of the international camaraderie that defines the Military World Winter Games.