Switzerland narrowly missed out on the first world medal in its history. The Swiss mixed relay took 4th place at the opening of the world championships in Nove Mesto.
Very comfortable shooting, the quartet formed by Sebastian Stalder (0+0), Niklas Hartweg (1+0), Lena Häcki-Gross (0+2) and Amy Baserga (0+0) has long been able to dream of podium. The Swiss only missed three targets in total, better than their direct competitors.
But the last runner, despite a flawless performance at the shooting range, lost too much time on the skis even though she had started in second position. Amy Baserga nevertheless had a good end to the race, failing only 1”2 from the third step of the podium.
Very tight
‘I knew that my competitors were very strong on skis. My chances lay in a perfect shot,’ the Schwyz resident explained on SRF television. ‘In the end, it was very close, but I’m still happy. I am proud to have been able to deliver a good performance on the big day,” she said.
The other three members of the relay also succeeded in their race. Sebastian Stalder was impeccable at the shooting range while Niklas Hartweg, returning from illness, only missed one target. ‘It was an average race for me. I didn’t have any problems shooting, but I had a little trouble on the skis.’
Great shape
As for Lena Häcki-Gross, she confirmed her great form, despite two shooting errors. The Obwalden, who took over in fourth position, gained two places. But in the end it wasn’t enough…
In very difficult conditions – driving rain, wind and soft snow – victory went to France, who beat Norway by 45.2 seconds and Sweden by 1’01.7 seconds. The Tricolores won despite a penalty round and nine picks.
/ATS