More than 1,500 cross-country skiers aged 7 to 19 gathered in Prémanon, France, for the 2026 edition of La Transju’Jeunes on Wednesday. The event featured races on courses from 1 to 6 kilometers, tailored to participants' levels, under ideal sunny conditions. It blended competition with family-friendly activities, emphasizing fun and inspiration from top athletes.
The Tuffes stadium in Prémanon, Jura, hosted the La Transju’Jeunes 2026, a celebrated youth cross-country skiing festival. Starting at 10:15 a.m., the competition kicked off with skiers born in 2015, flagged off by Olympian Renaud Jay, a bronze medalist in the 2023 World Championships team free sprint. Jay, serving as an usher, shared his enthusiasm: “Being an usher on La Transju’Jeunes is a really nice moment. It brings you into contact with the younger riders, showing them that we all start out like them. And that with passion and hard work, you can go very far: all the way to the French national team, the World Cup or even the Olympics. It’s important for me to be there, to share this moment with them.”
Other elite athletes, including Claire Moyse, Mattis Basille, and Nicolas Berthet from Team Nordic Expérience Cpste – Fromageries Marcel Petite, also opened races, fostering a spirit of sharing and passion for the sport. Courses were designed for discovery or competitive racing, allowing everyone to participate at their own pace.
Beyond the tracks, an entertainment village kept the energy high. The ESF in Les Rousses provided a fun zone with slalom, biathlon simulations, and obstacle courses. Smoby offered play areas, including a popular table football setup, while attendees enjoyed Comté cheese fondue, turning the day into a joyful family festival akin to its larger counterpart, La Transju’.
Young participants expressed delight in their experiences. Ten-year-old winner Marius from Haut Jura Leman said, “I’ve finished second for the last two years, so this year I really wanted to win. I’m really proud of myself.” Ella, also 10 from USEP Chaux-Neuve, added, “The race went really well... Tonight’s going to be a real party at home!” Eight-year-old Luce highlighted the fun: “I had so much fun. And as my mum always tells me: the aim isn’t to win, it’s to have fun!” Eleven-and-a-half-year-old winner Théo from Collège Le Rochat noted, “I’m really pleased to have won... I’ve always finished on the podium, so I’m really proud.”
The event underscored Nordic skiing's accessibility and community spirit, drawing 1,500 participants for a day of sport, games, and camaraderie.
