46° Saslong Classic presented to the press in Bolzano
The 46° edition of the Saslong Classic was presented in Bolzano today. At the press conference held at Hotel Laurin, race director Rainer Senoner, confirmed that preparations for the races held on December 17-18 have begun and that the slope is in excellent condition for the most part.
The recent sudden changes in temperature have had a slightly unfavourable effect on the upper part of the course, but with the expected temperature drops any last minute problems can be worked out. Once again two races will be held on Saslong, the Super G and the Downhill. The course has been widened by 10 meters near the Camel Humps in order to provide a smoother run during the Super G, which was confirmed by the organising committee's president Stefania Demetz. This also helps the spectators have a better vista of the race thanks to the instalment of a giant TV screen near the Camel Humps. The organisers have also added more to the entertainment program and side events that help wrap up the sporting event. Event manager, Günther Comploj explained that on Friday night everyone is invited to come and watch the awards ceremony for the Super G which also includes the delivery of the bibs for the Downhill on Saturday, and get a glimpse of their favourite ski idols. The drum band "Vulcanica" will be playing during the occasion along with Val Gardena's "Brass" who will be playing a repertoire of Christmas classics. Franz Klammer and Kristian Ghedina are at the top on the race list due to their 4 victories on Saslong. Antoine Deneriaz won the last two races. The total prize money amounts to 145.000 Euro, 75.000 Euro for the DH and 70.000 Euro for the SuperG. Winners take home a total of 20.000 Euro.