Kurzthaler took the junior world title in the women’s race, held over 12.5 kilometres, as she shot perfectly on her way to finishing the course in 39min 52.7sec.

Ukraine's Anastasiya Merkushyna recovered from an early penalty to clinch silver, 8.6 seconds adrift of the winning pace, while Kurzthaler’s compatriot Julia Schwaiger rounded off the podium, securing bronze.

Lena Arnaud of France, a double gold medallist at last year’s Junior World Championships in Raubichi in Belarus, threatened a strong challenge to the medal positions before she crossed the line in fourth.

“I am really happy right now and still cannot realise that I won,” Kurzthaler said.

“It was my first time when I hit all 20 targets and I am glad with that result.

“It feels amazing to be on the podium with my team-mate, and I still can't believe it happened.”

Leitner ensured it would be a day of double success for the Austrian contingent at the event as he clocked 41:55.4 in the men’s 15km race.

Italian Andrea Baretto, the only athlete in the 120-strong field to shoot clean, sealed silver by finishing 1:50.8 behind the Austrian, with Sean Doherty of the United States coming through to claim the bronze medal.

Leitner was able to claim victory, despite receiving a penalty on the first prone stage as he took the lead at the next phase and held on, gradually extending his advantage over the rest of the field to cruise to a commanding win.

“When I came to the finish, I already knew it was a great race for me and then my teammates told me that just few people could beat my result,” he said.

“I did not expect to score a gold in a first junior competition, but I wanted to show my best.

“The highlight of the season is this Championship, so I am really glad I could start it with a win."

The event in Cheile Grădiştei is due to continue tomorrow with the women’s 6km sprint and the men’s 7.5km sprint.