Home win caps first Para Alpine Ski South American Cup event in El Colorado (CHI)

Nicolas Bisquertt Hudson scored a home triumph in a star-studded debut Giant Slalom event of the Para Alpine Ski South American Cup at El Colorado (CHI).

Two-time Paralympian Bisquertt was second to Paralympic gold medallist Kurt Oatway (CAN) in the first of two men’s Sitting races held on September 24. But after Oatway failed to finish the first run of the second heat, the 27-year-old Chilean completed a comfortable victory from Brian Rowland (CAN).

Pascal Christen (SUI) was third in the opener, but slid out on the final run of the second race. Alex Slegg (GBR) filled the last podium spot as the sun shone on an impeccably prepared track.

“We are incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Chilean Ski and Snowboard Foundation President Stefano Pirola. “Incorporating Paralympic sports was a goal we had to continue growing. Chile is an important player in the winter sports scene and, with this championship and this new discipline, we value it even more.”

Three-time Crystal Globe winner Robin Cuche (SUI) led a Swiss podium sweep in the opening men’s Standing Giant Slalom from Theo Gmuer and Emerick Sierro. Cuche and Gmuer did not start the second race, with two-time Paralympic medalist Alexis Guimond (CAN) taking the win from Sierro.

Just one pair contested the men’s Visually Impaired category with Kalle Ericsson (CAN) and guide Sierra Smith successfully navigating the course four times to triumph.

There was only a Standing Giant Slalom for the women with three athletes from Canada taking part. Michaela Gosselin edged out Mollie Jepsen in the first race, but Jepsen exacted revenge in the second. Florence Carrier was third on both occasions.