Endurance and Determination on Display in Mass Start Races at Bessans 2025

The 2025 Virtus World Nordic Skiing Championships continued with an exhilarating display of endurance and tactical racing as athletes competed in the mass start events on the fourth and final day. With grueling distances and fierce competition, the event saw standout performances from familiar champions and thrilling battles for the podium.

Medallists from Men’s II1 (L) and Women’s II1 from the ‘mass race’ at Bessans 2025. Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

Volegov Ivan once again demonstrated his dominance, securing gold with a time of 40:05.98. The home crowd had reason to celebrate as France’s Dubois Titouan put up a strong fight to claim silver at 40:23.48. Fellow French skier Guebey Yann rounded out the podium, finishing in 42:02.27 to take bronze.

Guber Irina continued her remarkable championship run, claiming yet another gold with an impressive time of 31:05.96. Kashevarova Alina followed her teammate to the finish line, securing silver in 36:20.55. France’s Petitnicolas Manon fought hard to earn bronze at 38:05.70, keeping the host nation on the podium.

Medallists from Men’s II2 (L) and Men’s II3 (R) from the ‘mass race’ at Bessan’s 2025. Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

Colomby Clement proved unstoppable once more, finishing well ahead of the competition with a commanding time of 42:28.07. Italy’s Kostenr Tobia Maria crossed the line in 57:30.73 to take silver, while his compatriot Oltolina Mattiase secured bronze in 1:04:40.97.

France’s Richard Clement continued his impressive performance in Bessans, finishing with a time of 41:26.91 to add another gold medal to his tally.

Day 4 of the championships showcased the incredible resilience and stamina of the world’s top para Nordic skiers. As the competition heats up, the athletes continue to push their limits, delivering inspiring performances with each event.

The full results can be accessed from the competition website.