Roman Vasin and Stefania Shamshurina made it a double success for Russia’s junior athletes by claiming victory in Tartu.
In the Junior Women’s race, Shamshurina (pictured above) powered away on the bike after a tight opening run segment. Speaking after the race a delighted Shamshurina said: “For me, it was the perfect international championship. The track was perfect.”
Shamshurina’s dominace meant she finished almost three minutes ahead of Natalie Grabmullerova, who had to settle for second place.
Kseniia Belkina of Russia completed the podium in third.
In the Junior Men’s race, Roman Vasin had a much closer battle with the field, crossing the line just ten seconds ahead of his nearest challenger.
Once again it was Vasin’s power on the bike which propelled him into a winning position, despite the best efforts of runner up Zhorzh Basyuk.
Basyuk, from Russia, posted the fastest ski time of the day and although he closed the gap considerably on Vasin it wasn’t enough for victory.
In another Russian 1-2-3, Nikita Mandrik completed the Junior Men’s podium in third place.
For a full list of results and timings from the Junior races follow the links below: