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My First Major Competition: Kristina Šmigun-Vähi’s Story

My First Major Competition: Kristina Šmigun-Vähi’s Story

Two-time Olympic champion Kristina Šmigun-Vähi shared memories of her first major competitions in the ICG Tallinn 2025 video story series.

Kristina Šmigun-Vähi, a former cross-country skier and one of Estonia’s most successful female athletes of all time, was just 16 when she first experienced the atmosphere of a major international event. That same year, she took part in two very different types of competitions.

“I got to experience a cheerful and carefree children’s event, and just a couple of months later I found myself at the World Championships among stone-faced adults,” said Šmigun-Vähi.

“My First Major Competition” is a video story series in which Estonian athletes recall their first steps on the international stage and encourage young athletes taking part in the International Children’s Games in Tallinn on 4–7 August to make the most of the experience.

Find more about ICG Tallinn 2025 online: