Para-snowboarder Rapolas Micevičius recently had the opportunity to test the Paralympic course designed for the upcoming competitions. This practice allows randomly selected athletes from various categories to ride the course twice before official training begins, an aspect usually absent in regular competitions where athletes compete on the same day they train. Micevičius and other athletes had to observe from the sidelines as the selected few made their runs down the course before them, providing a unique vantage point of the challenges they would eventually face.

Over a period of about an hour and a half, the athletes witnessed several runs down a challenging slope, where they noted certain areas requiring adjustments to enhance the course's safety and functionality. The starting zone is surrounded by a forest, which ensures that the snow remains in good condition throughout the week, whereas open areas exposed to the sun tend to soften as the event progresses. Micevičius expressed his anticipation and eagerness to experience the course firsthand, emphasizing the need for course preparation that accommodates various skill levels.

Overall, this early testing period is crucial for the athletes to familiarize themselves with the various challenges of the course, ultimately setting the stage for a fair and competitive environment during the Paralympics. With the competition methods differing significantly from standard sporting events, athletes like Micevičius benefit from this unique setup, gaining insights into the track's condition and the adjustments needed for optimal performance during the games.