Andorran Skier Cande Moreno Nears Snow Return After Olympic Knee Surgery

Andorran alpine skier Cande Moreno has made significant strides in recovering from left knee surgery performed three and a half months ago following a heavy fall at the February Winter Olympics, which also caused a right thumb ligament tear. She now anticipates her first snow contact in October during a training camp in South America, slightly ahead of earlier expectations due to the controlled conditions there.

Speaking this morning, Moreno described her progress as substantial, noting she feels like an athlete again rather than someone sidelined by injury. She has resumed nearly full training, including weightlifting, impact work, and intense cycling, and emphasized a cautious approach. "There are biological timelines to respect. I am not in a hurry," she said, adding that her competition return will hinge on sensations once back on skis. She views the World Cup opener in Beaver Creek as too soon and targets Saint Moritz on December 18-19 instead—a familiar track with past strong results. "I may not be at 100% to chase a top-15, but it's a good spot for my first race," she remarked.

Teammate Carla Mijares has fully recovered from a left fibula stress fracture. After two pre-season camps in Les Deux Alpes, she skied without issues from the outset and aims to sustain last season's consistency. New coach Pol Carreras, who succeeded Josh Alayrach, confirmed the injury is resolved and praised the early camps. The focus now lies on broadening her technical range for tougher race conditions and bolstering mental resilience. "I am very motivated in this new phase and fully trust her potential," Carreras said. Mijares expressed enthusiasm for the coaching shift and its fresh methods.

In a related development, the Andorran Ski Federation yesterday finalized an agreement with Cellab CDMO, providing Celplat therapy access to ten elite athletes: Moreno, Mijares, Joan Verdú, Jordina Caminal, Íria Medina, Clàudia García, Xavier Cornella, Bartumeu Gabriel, Gina del Río, and Irineu Esteve. The treatment, derived from athletes' blood platelets and ready in about ten days, targets injury recovery like cartilage damage. Federation manager Carles Visa underscored its value for prevention and quicker returns. Cellab R&D head Clara Boces highlighted the personalized process, with samples already banked for prompt use. Several athletes toured the facility yesterday.