Paralympic Gold medalist Lauren Steadman makes cross country skiing World Cup debut

Tokyo Paralympic gold medalist Lauren Steadman took her first step towards qualifying for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games with a World Cup debut in Italy last weekend.

Competing against some of the best in the sport, the British star finished 13th having not been on the snow for almost nine months whilst juggling triathlon and skiing.

The 31-year-old, who also won a silver medal at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, will now turn her attention to defending her paratriathlon gold medal in Paris.

“I will keep working”

Competing in Northern Italy at the first World Cup of the season, Steadman shared how proud she was of her result after only spending a total of six weeks on the snow so far.

(Photo – Wagner Araujo, World Triathlon).

“I have spent a total of 6 weeks on snow, and my last time on actual snow was March 23. Juggling two sports isn’t easy! BUT, I finished my first ever World Cup race in 13th place! Racing the best in the world!

“Super proud as I focused on being strong and stayed upright, I have so much to learn and sharpen but it’s a technical sport and these girls are incredible… I will keep working and see how good we can get @ferncates.”

The Peterborough native confirmed that her focus will now be firmly fixed on racing in Paris, stating “I will not be on snow until after Paris as full focus is on triathlon now.”

Written by

Tomos Land

Tomos Land is a triathlon & running journalist whose expertise lies in the professional world of short course & long distance triathlon, though he also boasts an extensive knowledge of ultra-running.

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