Switzerland's Marianne Fatton claimed the first-ever Olympic gold in ski mountaineering at the Winter Games in Bormio, Italy, winning the women's sprint event in blizzard conditions. The sport, known as skimo, made its highly anticipated Olympic debut, with France's Emily Harrop taking silver despite struggling with transitions. Spain's Oriol Cardona Coll secured the men's gold, the nation's first Winter Olympics gold in 54 years.

Skimo combines uphill sprinting with skis, boot-running up steps, and downhill racing. Athletes navigate diamond-shaped obstacles and transitions between skiing and climbing. The sprint events last approximately three minutes, with competitors racing uphill using skins for traction before removing skis to climb on foot. The sport traces its roots to the 19th century before ski lifts existed.

Harrop, who could have represented Team GB due to her English parents, chose France instead. She led early but lost time during the second transition when her skins got caught. The event drew enthusiastic crowds despite heavy snowfall, with spectators praising the televisual appeal and close-up views from the grandstand. A mixed relay event will follow on Saturday, featuring teams of one man and one woman completing multiple laps.