Skeleton World Cup: Andžane 21st, Neumane Fails in Second Race
Latvian Skeleton Athletes Compete at Sigulda World Cup
Table of Contents
- Sigulda,Latvia
Overview of the competition
The Bobsleigh and Skeleton World Cup (WC) held its third stage on the Sigulda track in Latvia. Latvian skeleton athletes experienced mixed results, with Marta Anjane securing a 21st-place finish in the women’s competition and Darta Neuman failing to qualify for the second run, finishing 29th overall. The Sigulda competition is particularly significant this season as athletes vie for qualification spots for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.
Anjane Improves in Second Run
Competing on her home track, Marta Anjane advanced to the second run by placing within the top 25 after the initial heat. While her first run wasn’t among the leading times, Anjane substantially improved her performance in the second attempt, ultimately climbing to 21st place overall.Belgian athlete Kim Meilemans won the stage, followed by Czech Republic’s Anna Fernstedt and Great Britain’s Amelia Koltman.
Neuman Fails to Qualify for Second Run
Darta Neuman faced a more challenging competition in Sigulda. She finished 29th after the first run and did not qualify among the top 25 athletes who advanced to the final run. This result came after Neuman won the European U-20 championship in sigulda earlier in the year, demonstrating the competitive nature of the World Cup circuit.
Season Context and Upcoming Events
The Sigulda stage is part of a seven-stage World Cup season. Notably, the track is also hosting the fourth stage, which was relocated from Innsbruck, Austria. These competitions are crucial for athletes aiming to secure their place in the 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Latvian skeleton athletes will continue their pursuit of points at upcoming World Cup stages in Winterberg,Germany; St. Moritz, Switzerland; and Altenberg, Germany, following the New Year.