From the start in Sölden to the far north to Levi, then back to the Tyrolean Ötztal to Gurgl: the ski aces covered 5,000 kilometers as the crow flies for the first three World Cup stops, even before the entourage moved to the USA. Apart from the fact that skiing in particular is directly affected by the consequences of global warming, the strains of travel take a toll on athletes. As in the case of Manuel Feller, it is not very edifying to fly to the USA for just one race, the giant slalom in Beaver Creek (December 8th), especially since the Tyrolean’s form is at stake in all three races of the season failed, is not in good order. “A lot of effort for just one race,” says Feller, who is “unfortunately leaving for America” after a huge slalom training session at home. After all: “It’s a slope that suits me.” After two slalom threaders recently, the giant slalom could possibly be just the right change, the 32-year-old continued. As expected, the technology specialist will not be racing downhill and Super-G. Just like in previous winters, speed riders overseas are experiencing the start of their season.
Mikaela Shiffrin has four races on the program over the next two weekends in Killington (USA) and Mont-Tremblant (Can), but the series winner is still not happy with the calendar planning. “My honest opinion is: It’s challenging to be in Sölden, then in Levi, then back in Gurgl and then in Killington. It’s really hard on the body and the mind,” says the 29-year-old.
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The fact that Gurgl and Sölden – both World Cup locations are part of the municipality of Sölden – are planning a joint double weekend has met with widespread approval. The most successful athlete in history, with 99 World Cup victories, can also benefit from the idea. “It would be ideal,” says Shiffrin, knowing that if the Gurgl races had been scheduled earlier they would have been extremely shaky due to the snow situation. “The season should start later and possibly end later. I know it’s easier said than done. But maybe there are some ways to structure it so that we can keep the racing but also make the travel more physically and environmentally sensible.” , Shiffrin positions himself.
What are Manuel Feller’s thoughts on the impact of travel on both his performance and the environment?
## Interview with Manuel Feller
**Interviewer:** Manuel, you’ve had a tough start to the season, with three races under your belt and no podium finishes yet. Now you’re off to the US for just one race – the giant slalom in Beaver Creek. How are you feeling about that?
**Manuel Feller:** To be honest, it’s a bit frustrating. We’ve already covered 5,000 kilometers just for the first three races, flying all over Europe. Now it’s another big trip just for one giant slalom. It feels like a lot of effort for a single race, especially when my form hasn’t been where I want it to be.
**Interviewer:** The constant travel must be taking its toll, both physically and mentally?
**Manuel Feller:** Absolutely. And it’s not just skiing that’s affected by global warming, travel has its own environmental impact too. It’s something we’re all becoming more aware of. Personally, I’d rather be focusing on my performance here at home, fine-tuning my technique ahead of these crucial races.
**Interviewer:** But Beaver Creek is a slope that suits you, right?
**Manuel Feller:** Yes, it’s a good track for me. After the recent slalom races, I’m hoping the giant slalom might be just the change I need. I’m focused on getting back on track and putting in a strong performance in the United States.