She triumphed by more than three minutes in Estonia, finishing the 12.5 kilometre course with two penalties in 41min 36.1sec.

This was 3:04.7 in front of Ukraine's silver medallist Anna Kryvonos, who also missed twice, while bronze went to Irina Kazakevich of Russia with three penalties, 3:20.0 adrift.

Zuk, who competed at the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics last month, was lightning quick on the skis and had a big advantage approaching the last standing shoot.

"It is an amazing feeling for me because it is my first medal and it is gold," she said.

"I cannot believe it.

"I did not feel so good on the track today, but I did the best; I was trying to focus all the time and to do my job."

Russia's Igor Malinovski won the men's junior individual title over 15km, with three penalties in 41:48.5.

Norwegian Sturla Holm Laegried also missed three times and was 19.4 seconds behind in silver medal position.

Russia also won bronze thanks to Said Karimulla Khalili, who recorded two penalties but was 23 seconds adrift.

"I did not know that I was battling for the medal until I left for the final lap," said Malinovski.

"Coaches told me everything was in my hands but it was very tough. 

"Last loop was so hard and if not for the coaches who were staying along the track, I would not stay at the podium at all."

Youth sprint events will be held tomorrow.