Maja Alm, centre, won the women's sprint title at the World Cup ©IOF

Denmark's Maja Alm and Switzerland's Matthias Kyburz each claimed gold medals in sprint competitions today at the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) World Cup in Turku in Finland.

Alm battled to a 10-second victory over a duo of Swedish rivals in the women's 3.4 kilometres event.

She crossed in 12min 18sec to defeat Tove Alexandersson, in 12:28, and Lina Strand, in 12:43.

Alexandersson had led until a poor route choice from control 14 to 15 cost the Swede victory.

Alm, in contrast, navigated superbly before sealing the contest with a trademark sprint finish.

Matthias Kyburz, pictured competing at the World Championships, won the men's race ©Getty Images
Matthias Kyburz, pictured competing at the World Championships, won the men's race ©Getty Images

Matthias Kyburz of Switzerland sealed the corresponding men's race.

He crossed in 12:30 to finish 19 seconds clear over the 3.9km course of another Swede in Emil Svensk.

Antonio Martinez Perez of Spain finished third in 12:53.

A rest day will take place tomorrow before middle distance competition on Saturday (May 27).