2024-03-27 22:27:15
“Something has really happened over the last three weeks. I can walk longer at a time,” said Franz, who broke both lower legs in a training fall in Colorado 16 months ago. The nerve was 80 percent severed, the tissue was severely damaged, and the surgical scars are reportedly 114.5 centimeters long. 19 screws were now stuck in his feet.
Since the stroke of fate, Franz has had to revise his objectives several times. The 34-year-old sat in a wheelchair for a long time and had to learn to walk once more. Motivation dampeners and setbacks were commonplace. However, the healing process following another operation before Christmas is giving an impetus. “The bone is finally becoming stable. The nerve pain is more, but that’s a good sign, more is coming back.” At the same time, the nature lover stated dryly: “Longer walks with the dogs are not worth it.”
The goal is “to make something happen next season,” said Franz when asked regarding a possible return as a skier. He works three days a week at the Athlete Performance Center in Thalgau and two days with his trusted physiotherapist at home in Scheffau. Watching the races at the 2025 World Cup venue is currently neither a psychological burden nor additional motivation. “It actually leaves me cold. I enjoy watching the races. I’m far too far away that it would be a shame not to be there.”
“Motivation and incentive” at Ortlieb
Ortlieb, meanwhile, spoke of “motivation and incentive” for her comeback path. For the first time since her injury, which she sustained while driving into St. Moritz at the beginning of December, the downhill runner-up took part in a race. “I didn’t want to reach the finish line with crutches, I didn’t want to arouse pity. It’s primarily regarding the athletes who are racing that day.” The Vorarlberg native was happy regarding the flying visit to Pinzgau. “You can see why you work countless hours – even with pain – on your comeback.”
The 27-year-old has long been practiced at describing her physical condition; she has been a patient far too often. “The intramuscular control needs to get better.” Going downhill, for example, is still difficult. Two weeks ago some material was removed from the shinbone. “The plan is to only get the next one out following the final next season,” reported the athlete. Ideally, the next operation wouldn’t take place until March 2025, Ortlieb said with a smile.
Ortlieb praises her teammates
She praised her teammates for a “totally strong speed season. A lot of them found themselves in top positions following we had difficulties with consistency in the last few years.” This shows that the path of the ÖSV downhill skiers is consistent. “That also helps me because I saw in the fall that I can compete well with them,” said Ortlieb.
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