The skiing in the Val Gardena dates back to the end of the 19th century. Though the first documented ski race was held 1908, the first world championship race was held in 1970, which set an important mile stone in the history of Val Gardena. The skier Gustav Thoni, who was then the hot favourite for his excellent performance in former races, stood fourth and the race was won by Jean-Noel Augert from France who stood first followed by Patrick Russel, again from France and Bill Kidd from USA on the second and third position respectively. Among the ladies champions, Ingrid Lafforgue from France, Barbara Cochran from USA and Jacot Michelle from France stood first, second and third respectively.