Werner Heel’s first gratitude goes to the organizers of the World Cup race in Gardena-Gröden: “They gave the team an opportunity to train on the course last week and I have to say that this made a difference. Maybe it even was the key to my success and to the good placings of my team members. Heel also noted that “the course was set differently this time�. The wind was a determining facotr: “I am sure that the results were impacted by the weather. It got stronger after the sixth or seventh skier started�. He knew that he was skiing a good race: “I didn’t make big mistakes but that is also why I thought I wasn’t skiing too fast.� He liked the Camel Humps “they are pure adrenaline.� Heel then went on to admit that Cuche sent him a case of beer for beating Miller. “Yes, this still dates back to Bormio.�

Patrick Järbin of Sweden was also overjoyed. He is returning to the United States to spend a few days with his wife and two children. “I just recovered from an injury to my left knee which is still hurting. I will skip Bormio and go straight to Wengen. I am overjoyed to have finished on the podium and admit that good fortune was on my side. But you have to be able to capitalize on the luck given to you.� He then adds a few tender words for his wife: “She is always on my side and will never cease to support me. She is an extraordinary life partner. � Järbin expressed his gratitude to the local Organizing Committee: “The staff from Gardena-Gröden has prepared an excellent yet selective course. A good skier also has to know how to ski the straight sections.�