2nd Downhill Training in Gardena/Groeden: Cuche takes second training run
Once again the favourites proved themselves at the second Downhill Training on the Saslong. Didier Cuche (SUI) finished first, notwithstanding a broken rib, followed closely by Werner Heel (ITA), Aksel Lund Svindal (NOR) and Michael Walchhofer (AUT). A mere 0,31 seconds separates the first four and most likely they will be fighting amongst themselves for first place at the races on Friday and Saturday.
The second training run demonstrated once again that the Saslong is no race course for beginners. The top positions are all held by experienced racers. Didier Cuche posted the fastest time of the day with 1:59.22 minutes, which wouldn’t really be surprising if it weren’t for his broken rib. But obviously one still has to reckon with the Swiss in tomorrow’s and Saturday’s races.
Even Werner Heel’s 2nd place proves that he can again achieve the top podium position (last year he won the Super-G). Aksel Lund Svindal finished third with just 0,12 seconds behind Cuche and a hundredth of a second behind Heel, whereas Michael Walchhofer “only” managed fourth place today. But having won the Men’s Downhill in Gardena / Groeden in the last two years he is still the hot favourite.
Bode Miller (USA) also gave a strong sign. Although suffering from an ancle sprain he finished 8th with 1,23 seconds deficit.
Attention: In the results of the second Downhill Training Patrik Jaerbyn and Hans Olsson appear in 5th and 7th position respectively, but the two Swedish skiers both missed a gate.
Didier Cuche: Broken rib is not a problem
I am very happy today. Even my broken rib doesn't seem to cause me any problems.This year the Camel Humps and the Ciaslat meadows seem much easier. So one can risk more in this section.
Werner Heel: Studying the ideal trajectory helped
Yesterday after the first training run we discussed the ideal trajectory with the trainers for a long time and it seems to have been worth it. At the same time we decided to use an older ski today and now I am just looking forward to the two races here in Gardena / Groeden.
Michael Walchhofer: Hope to achieve podium position even in Super-G
Regarding tomorrow's Super-G I said in Val d'Isere that a place in the first top ten would be fine. However, now I think I can achieve a podium position tomorrow, at least I think this course suits me even better. But there are also other contenders than in Val d'Isere.
Hans Olsson: Chance to be among top skiers
I skied very well and if I manage to ski like this tomorrow I have a chance to be
