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Capturing Speed, Skill, and Spirit in Bormio
Images and copy by India Knowlson
Bormio, the stunning Italian resort nestled in the Lombardy region of the Alps, was once again taken over by the English Alpine Ski Championships as 400 athletes descended on the town for ten days of high-speed racing. Organised by a team of incredibly dedicated volunteers, who were committed to delivering a professional championship, and with the support of the Bormio Hill Team, the event ran seamlessly, showcasing some of the best young skiing talent in the UK.
I arrived for the second half of the championships, which was dedicated to the younger competitors—children from ages 15 down to under-10s—competing in Giant Slalom (GS), Slalom, and Parallel. The week kicked off with an opening parade and ceremony along the streets of the town. The excitement was palpable, and the atmosphere electric as the athletes gathered in the square with their teams, coaches, and families for a ceremonious lighting of the flame, flanked by the Olympic rings—a nod to what is to come for Bormio in 2026. These young skiers raced with precision and determination, taking on courses that would challenge even seasoned athletes. Among the slopes used was the legendary Stelvio, a World Cup course and the very same slope that will feature in next year’s Winter Olympics. For the young racers, the prospect of skiing the same course as their Olympic heroes next year adds another layer of excitement and motivation to preparations for next year.
As a photographer, I experienced the championship through the lens of my camera, capturing last-minute words of advice, heartfelt family support, and the unpredictable drama of downhill racing. From the moment I set foot on the mountain, I was struck not only by the sheer scale of the event but also by the vibrant atmosphere and, most importantly, the camaraderie that defined every aspect of the competition.
Ski racing is, at its core, an individual sport. Each athlete is alone on the course, carving their way through gates at exhilarating speeds. Yet, what struck me most was the undeniable sense of teamwork and community that surrounded the event. Coaches worked tirelessly to prepare their athletes, prepping skis long into the night, offering words of encouragement, and sharing in their triumphs and disappointments. Parents lined the slopes to cheer on their children with unrelenting enthusiasm. Friends supported friends, celebrating each other’s successes and offering comfort after tough runs.
As someone coming in as an outsider, this was perhaps the most inspiring aspect to witness. I was given the opportunity to see the sport through fresh eyes—to appreciate not just the technical skill and bravery of the athletes but the familial bonds that form within teams, the dedication of the coaches, and the unwavering support of families.
Ski racing isn’t just about speed and skill; it’s about resilience, support, and the shared love of the sport. As I look back on my time in Bormio, I feel privileged to have captured these moments, preserving the raw emotion and energy of the championships through my lens.
Next year, Bormio will once again play host to the English Alpine Ski Championships. And with the Winter Olympics on the horizon, the significance of racing on these slopes will only grow. For these young athletes, the opportunity to follow in the tracks of world-class Olympians is one that will inspire them for years to come. For me, this experience has provided a new appreciation for the sport, the community that drives it, and the passion that fuels every turn, jump, and finish-line celebration.
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