Anika Wallin is in Schilpario, Italy, to prepare for the 2025 World Junior and U23 cross-country skiing championships.
Her mom, Bev Rooke, flew over to cheer her daughter on and help her as Wallin prepares for her first big international championship event. The two arrived in time for the athlete parade to open the world championship events.
Rooke said Wallin is out every day skiing and checking out the courses as she readies herself for a possible U20 free skate 10 km event on Friday.
The pair are also cheering on Wallin's fellow Canadian teammates. Alison Mackie, of Edmonton, Alberta, who Wallin trains with at the Alberta World Cup Academy was in the sprint final and only just missed the podium.
Rooke said the valley where Schilpario is located is stunning and it has been sunny and beautiful so far. The racing action will continue until Feb. 9.