Russia claimed victory in the aerials team event ©FIS

Russia claimed a thrilling mixed team gold medal as China disappointed today at their home International Ski Federation (FIS) Aerials World Cup in Beidahu.

Xu Mengtao had claimed female gold while Guangpu Qi had won men's silver in the individual events to leave China as the pre-race favourite in an innovative new three-person mixed gender team format.

The duo were joined by Wang Xindi in a system in which countries could enter either two women and one man or two men and one women.

But, despite the star-studded line-up, all three skiers flattered to deceive as the team finished down in sixth place, in 184.47.

Russia's Alexandra Orlova, Liubov Nikitina and Maxim Burov combined for a winning score of 255.81.

Danielle Scott continued her good form to lead Australia to a podium finish ©Getty Images
Danielle Scott continued her good form to lead Australia to a podium finish ©Getty Images

Catrine Lavallee, Lewis Irving and Samantha Wells combined for Canadian silver with a combined haul of 243.94.

Samantha Wells, Danielle Scott and David Morris took bronze for Australia with 228.85.

Belarus and United States finished fourth and fifth.

It is hoped the mixed team event could one day be added onto the Olympic programme.