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.
How does Manuel Feller feel about traveling to Beaver Creek for just one giant slalom race?
## The Price of Peak Performance: An Interview with Manuel Feller
**Interviewer:** Manuel, thanks for taking the time to speak with me today. You’ve had a busy start to the season, crisscrossing Europe for the first three World Cup stops. Can you tell us about the challenges of such extensive travel?
**Manuel Feller:** It’s definitely taxing, both physically and mentally. From Sölden to Levi, and then back to Gurgl – that’s a lot of mileage even before we head to the US! As skiers, we’re acutely aware of the impact climate change has on our sport, but the travel itself adds another level of strain.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the upcoming giant slalom in Beaver Creek. It seems like a long journey for just one race.
**Manuel Feller:** Absolutely. It’s a lot of effort for just one race, and to be honest, it’s not ideal. My form hasn’t been where I want it to be this season, so flying to America for just one giant slalom feels a bit disheartening.
**Interviewer:** But you are optimistic about the race itself?
**Manuel Feller:** Beaver Creek’s slope seems to suit me. After a couple of rough slaloms recently, a change of pace might be just what I need. So, while the travel is a challenge, I’m going to try to make the most of this opportunity.
