1) The races held in Val Gardena are right outside your front door.  What does that mean to you?
The main thing is that the slopes are just a few minutes away from my house and that represents a huge luxury for me. During the winter season we grind a lot of kilometres in just a few short months and that consumes a lot of nerves as well as physical energy. It's definitely handy for me to be able to race near home and it¹s also great for my family and friends, not to mention the numerous amount of fans who realised the situation.

2) How do you feel when you are standing at the starting gate knowing that family and friends will be cheering for you on your way down?
To be honest, motivations and feelings are different. It's undoubtably exciting to perform in front of your fans, and to be cheered and supported by people who know you personally.  It¹s an opportunity for me to demonstrate what I¹m made of and....eventually celebrate with my friends.

3) Last year had a serious fall on Saslong which happened to be your most serious accident during a world cup race. Has this changed your feeling towards Saslong?
Technically speaking the Saslong is not the most difficult run in the world cup circuit however it¹s still extremely fast and challenging. This is especially true when the snow is compact and icy like it was last year. Myself as well as many other athletes have experienced some problems so after that fall I realised that every slope must be approached with maximum respect.

4) Bode Miller is the undisputed leader for the mens world cup race. What does he have that sets him apart?
I'd say the way he approaches the turns and his capacity to just let the skis run. Bode is also very centered, he's always so relaxed and in a good mood.