2024-01-19 23:23:04
The Austrians were recently unable to use their home advantage. In the night slalom in Flachau on Tuesday, only three runners scored points, Katharina Liensberger was the best in seventh place. “In sport, things go up and down. Tick things off and do better in Jasna,” explained ÖSV head coach Roland Assinger.
It starts in Jasna with a giant slalom, in which Franziska Gritsch and Julia Scheib (both twice) secured the top ten places for the ÖSV team so far. Gritsch has found her way in her situation as a lone fighter. “It fits quite well, we do everything ourselves, I don’t get any radio messages or anything like that, but I don’t really want to say much more on the subject. We have our seven things together,” said the Tyrolean.
Duel between Vlhova and Shiffrin in Jasna
The women’s World Cup weekend in Jasna, Slovakia is all regarding the duel between local hero Petra Vlhova and Mikaela Shiffrin. The ÖSV technicians have a lot of catching up to do, especially in the giant slalom.
Four different season winners on RTL
So far, this giant slalom season has been dominated by two-time winners Lara Gut-Behrami (Sölden and Killington) and Federica Brignone (twice Mont-Tremblant), Lienz winner Shiffrin and Kranjska-Gora winner Valerie Grenier. Things have been more one-sided in slalom for a long time. Since Lena Dürr on January 29th last year in Spindleruv Mlyn, the winner of a World Cup slalom has always been called Vlhova or Shiffrin. The American is 4-3 this season following intercepting her long-term rival in the second round in Flachau.
Vlhova, who grew up not far from the Jasna ski area at the foot of the Low Tatras, wants to balance things out with her fans behind her. “I’m really looking forward to it, it’s my home. “It’s going to be really big, with so many people,” said the 28-year-old. “The fight with Mika is always tough, she always pushes harder, harder and even harder. I’m ready to fight,” explained the Slovakian, who has already enjoyed a home win once. In March 2021, Vlhova triumphed in the Jasna giant slalom.
Shiffrin is looking forward to a great backdrop
Shiffrin, who is aiming for her 95th World Cup victory, is also looking forward to the great scenery, but is, as always, sporting. She knew the importance of home races, she said following her Flachau victory and added: “I want to be the best there – as always – but I would certainly be happy if she (Vlhova, note) wins. It’s a very special show there. Whatever happens, it will be wonderful,” said the winner of the Jasna Slalom three years ago.
Katharina Gallhuber and Katharina Huber, who have checked off their loss in Flachau, will also attack once more. “I’m in good shape and showed quick turns once more in Flachau. A threader can happen when you are at the limit,” said Gallhuber. “Basically, I feel very safe, and with that security I can accelerate. I have to trust that,” said Huber.
1705734522
#Alpine #skiing #Vlhova #relies #home #advantage #Jasna
