For the 13th consecutive year, Institut Le Rosey and Gymnasium Gstaad met for the Alpina Cup, a sporting tradition featuring giant slalom racing and an ice hockey showdown, followed by a joint dinner at The Alpina Gstaad, the event's sponsor.

Heavy snowfall accompanied this year’s races at Hublen, where students competed in ski and snowboard categories while others used the day to socialise across school lines. “It’s a great event, and having less school and free food doesn’t hurt,” smiled Gymnasium Gstaad student Lynn Hefti.

Despite challenging conditions, performances were strong. In the snowboard competition, Hiroki (Le Rosey) set the fastest time with 54.99 seconds, while Helene (Le Rosey) was the fastest female rider. On skis, Gymnasium Gstaad dominated: Rebekka Bach recorded the best women’s time, 41.86 seconds, and Silas Däpp led the men’s field with 37.26 seconds, as the local team swept the podium places. The coveted cowbell trophy from the ski races went to Gymnasium Gstaad.

The action continued on the ice rink in Gstaad, where Le Rosey faced off against local junior and senior players. After taking an early 4:1 lead, Le Rosey held their nerve as Gstaad mounted a late comeback, eventually winning the match 8:7. Best-player honours went to Liam (Le Rosey) and Niklas Zeller (Gstaad).

The day concluded with a joint dinner at The Alpina Gstaad, where medals and cowbells were awarded. More than results, the Alpina Cup once again proved its value as a rare moment of exchange between the two schools, competitive on the field, relaxed and convivial off it.

BASED ON AVS | PAULA MITTAG

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