Finishing touches put to 2017 Para Nordic Worlds

With just under one week to go until the official opening of the 2017 World Para Nordic Skiing Championships in Finsterau, Germany, on 10 February, organisers are making their final preparations.

Trucks have been arriving in the Bavarian Forest, laden with containers which act as waxing cabins for the 135 athletes from 25 countries who are expected to compete.

Bright red piste bashers have been perfecting the tracks, preparing them for the nine days of cross-country skiing and biathlon competitions.

But without the 270 volunteers from the local community and county, none of this would be possible. Catering for athletes or guests, the shuttle service for the athletes and range preparation are all being carried out by the men and women in black jackets.

The new hall, which has replaced the large tent of previous competitions in Finsterau, has now been completed. The space has already been utilised with a briefing for the volunteers.

Everything is ready for the opening of Finsterau 2017 on 10 February, and the first national teams will begin to arrive in the coming days.

There has also been plenty of snow in the area, meaning the tracks and stadium are ready for the last major event ahead of the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games.

In the background, German media such as ARD, ZDF, Bavarian Radio and Austrian TV ORF are all planning on sending teams to cover the competition providing a great platform for the town, the country of Freyung-Grafenau and the municipality of Mauth to shine. All races will also be livestreamed at Finsterau2017.com.

Finsterau 2017 will run from 10-19 February. The first medal events will take place on 11 February in men’s and women’s middle distance biathlon.