Tom Hilde (centre) celebrates his victory with second placed Michael Hayboeck (left) and third placed Philipp Aschenwald (right) ©FIS/Facebook

Norweigan Tom Hilde has become the first person to win a senior ski jumping event at the brand new Nordic Arena in Kandersteg.

The new venue in the Swiss town was officially opened this week with a two day celebration.

Various youth competitions were first held at the new training centre, that consists of three hills - HS 27, HS 72 and HS 108. 

However, the highlight of the opening was the international competition on Monday (August 1) evening.

The Nordic Arena in Kandersteg, Switzerland, officially opened on Sunday ©Getty Images
The Nordic Arena in Kandersteg, Switzerland, officially opened on Sunday ©Getty Images

Hilde narrowly won with jumps of 101 metres and 103m for a total of 253.5 points. 

Close behind the winner was Austria's Michael Hayboeck, who came second with 103m and 100m jumps for 252.0 points.

Hayboech's team-mate Philipp Aschenwald, who jumped 102.5m and 100m for 250.0 points, finished third.

Action took place in summer conditions due to the lack of snow in August.

The Nordic Arena in Kandersteg, a popular ski and tourism destination located in the Bern canton, was closed for the construction of three hills which has taken two years to complete. The facility will also serve as a training base for Swiss athletes.

It is also hoped the facility will begin to attract further international competitions, including stops on the International Ski Federation (FIS) Ski Jumping World Cup tour.