The 23rd Winter Universiade (University Games) will be taking place in Turin (ITA) from 17th to 27th January.
However, there are reports that the cross country races might be cancelled.
“The organizing committee informed us this morning that the cross-country events might be cancelled. But the courses of the Alpine skiing and ski jumping are good enough for the competitions,” said Ren Hongguo, head of the Chinese delegation.
The whole continent of Europe has less snow weathers than usual.
“There is no signal of snow weather that could prepare enough snow for the course,” Ren added.
Originally an idea inspired by the late Primo Nebiolo, the first Universiade took place in Torino in 1959. Designed for university students practicing a variety of sports, the name ‘Universiade’ combines several concepts including university, sport, and universality; in short, all that is meant by sports at university. Today the Universiade is a cultural and sports event held every two years under the auspices of FISU (International University Sports Federation) and today constitutes one the most important international events after the Olympic Games. In memory of Primo Nebiolo, the event now returns to Turin for the fourth time and Giovanna Cappellano Nebiolo, Nebiolo’s widow, is serving as President of the organizing committee.
The Summer Universiade consists of thirteen standard sports while the Winter Universiade consists of seven standard sports. The 2005 Winter Universiade held in Innsbruck (AUT) recorded the largest number of participants so far (2223, of whom 1449 athletes) and nations (50). Of the FIS disciplines, Cross-Country Skiing, Ski Jumping, Nordic Combined, Alpine Skiing and Snowboard are represented with extensive programs each. The competitions in these disciplines will be held according to the FIS rules and are being guided by FIS appointed and trained Technical Delegates. For more information and for competition results in the upcoming 10 days, please visit www.universiadetorino2007.org
