Slovakia Claims First Medal at 2026 Winter Paralympics: Rexová Secures Bronze in Downhill
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – Alexandra Rexová has etched her name into Slovak Paralympic history, securing the nation’s first medal of the 2026 Winter Paralympics. Rexová, a visually impaired para alpine skier, claimed bronze in the women’s downhill event on Saturday, March 7th, alongside her guide Sophia Poláková.
A Triumphant Start to the Games
Rexová finished the course with a time 4.90 seconds behind gold medalist Veronika Aignerová of Austria. Italy’s Chiara Mazzelová took silver, finishing 0.48 seconds off Aignerová’s winning time of 1:22.55. The Slovak team’s achievement marks a significant moment, as Rexová was the first competitor to start the para-alpine skiing events.
Emotional Reactions and Team Spirit
Rexová expressed the weight of being the first starter, stating, “We were essentially opening the entire Paralympic Games, as far as skiing is concerned. It was a real internal responsibility, but a very good feeling to be on the start line as number one and ultimately have a medal.”
The skier highlighted the strong communication and camaraderie with her guide, Sophia Poláková. “With Sophia, it’s really great, she’s very communicative. This run was the most talkative of all the runs we’ve done in the last two years. I don’t always remember moments from the downhill, but I’ll never forget the moment when we were just going straight towards the finish and I kind of screamed.”
Looking Ahead: Remaining Events
Rexová still has four opportunities to add to Slovakia’s medal count, with upcoming competitions in super-G, super combined, giant slalom, and slalom. The medal ceremony will take place after the completion of Saturday’s program.
“I’m still having a little trouble processing this. The initial moment with the competitors we expected to be rivals was very emotional. I was experiencing it with my Austrian competitor, we were all crying, you recognize, the usual, girls,” Rexová shared, reflecting on the emotional impact of her win.
FAQ
Q: Who is Alexandra Rexová’s guide?
A: Sophia Poláková is Alexandra Rexová’s guide.
Q: What other events will Alexandra Rexová compete in?
A: She will compete in super-G, super combined, giant slalom, and slalom.
Q: Where are the 2026 Winter Paralympics being held?
A: The games are being held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.
Q: What was the time difference between Rexová and the gold medalist?
A: Rexová finished 4.90 seconds behind Veronika Aignerová.
Did you know? Alexandra Rexová was born on August 5, 2005, and has already established herself as a prominent figure in para alpine skiing.
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