Skimo Femení Hits Record 420 Racers, Raises €5,260 for Autism Charity

The ninth edition of the Skimo Femení at Pal Arinsal ski resort achieved a record turnout of 420 racers on International Women's Day, bringing total involvement to 455 participants and generating €5,260 for AUTEA, Andorra's autism spectrum disorder association—a new high that pushes the nine-year total beyond €26,000.

Organised by Gresmi Roca and Maria Rosa Vergés, the popular event blended ski mountaineering and snowshoe races in a festive, accessible atmosphere designed for all ages, fitness levels, and abilities. Women made up 86% of competitors, while male entries rose from 41 to 60, limited to female-led teams to emphasise women's prominence in mountain sports. Across 99 teams in both disciplines, breakdowns included 35 mixed pairs, seven family pairs, 31 all-women pairs, and 26 groups of three to eight. Participation climbed 13% from 341 the previous year, with 60% opting for ski mountaineering—including an Andorran Cup round—and 40% for snowshoes.

Slovak athlete Nikola Matkova defended her ski mountaineering title on the 4km course, featuring 432m of vertical gain from Pla de la Caubella to Pic del Cubil, finishing in 34 minutes 37 seconds—three minutes faster than in 2023. Loli Mellado took second, ahead of Queralt Riba in third. In snowshoes, Isabel Gumbau retained her crown over 3.4km and 180m ascent in 23 minutes 21 seconds, with Maria del Pino de la Fuente and Nuria Moreno rounding out the podium.

The day featured live music from Els Senyora and Las Raffaellas del Club Serradells, parallel activities, a public communal lunch, and an Après-skimo party. A fresh Skimo Village category drew 35 supporters who paid €15 for refreshments and Rústic zone access without racing, alongside Fila 0 donations. Five young AUTEA members joined the snowshoe race guided by four association monitors.

Organisers stressed the non-competitive spirit, aiming to boost women's visibility in mountain sports, break down barriers, and encourage girls to join with friends, family, or partners in a supportive setting.