Odermatt Triumphs in Thrilling Season Opener at Sölden

In a gripping contest that showcased the thrill of alpine skiing, Olympic champion Marco Odermatt emerged victorious in the season-opening men’s World Cup giant slalom held in Sölden, Austria, on November 5, 2023. Facing a fierce challenge from local favorite Marco Schwarz, Odermatt secured his win by a narrow margin of 0.24 seconds, culminating in his 46th career victory and 27th in giant slalom.

The competition was marked by a weather delay that pushed the start of the final run back by approximately one hour. After a first run where Odermatt led by a mere 0.01 seconds, the second run saw increased snowfall, which necessitated extensive course maintenance. Despite these challenging conditions, Odermatt maintained his composure, highlighting the efforts of the course workers. He remarked, “It was tough for everyone with the visibility, the little snowfall, the slope, but (course workers) did a good job and so did I.”

The second run commenced after a series of delays, with visibility initially hampered by low clouds. Racers reached speeds nearing 75 kph (46.6 mph), which added to the intensity of the competition. Organizers adjusted the start time multiple times, but ultimately allowed the runs to proceed as conditions improved. “I know I like these conditions when you have to fight,” said Odermatt, praising the fairness of the second run.

Schwarz, who finished in second place, celebrated his first podium result in nearly two years. His comeback followed a challenging period marked by knee and back injuries that sidelined him. Odermatt acknowledged the strength of the Austrian competitors, stating, “It was a very strong performance from the Austrians, especially from ‘Blacky’, who is definitely back.” This performance comes just a day after Julia Scheib secured victory in the women’s race, marking a strong start for the Austrian team in the World Cup season.

The race was not without its challenges for other competitors. Atle Lie McGrath of Norway finished in third place, 0.03 seconds behind Schwarz. Meanwhile, Stefan Brennsteiner, Schwarz’s teammate, started strong but dropped to fourth after the second run. Last year’s winner, Aleksander Steen Olsen, missed the race due to a persistent knee injury.

In a noteworthy moment, Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, competing for Brazil, faced difficulties on his second run, skiing out halfway through. He reflected on the balance required in the sport, saying, “It’s a fine balance between intensity and control and precision; I miscalculated that today.” Despite the setback, Braathen is striving for Brazil’s first World Cup win in alpine skiing.

The season opener also saw former overall champion Alexis Pinturault making his return to competition, finishing in 18th place. River Radamus was the only American to qualify for the second run, concluding in 21st place, 1.89 seconds behind Odermatt.

Strong winds on the upper course led to an adjustment in the starting gate, which resulted in shorter run times for the top racers. The excitement of the World Cup continues with the next event, a slalom race set to take place in Levi, Finland, on November 16, 2023.

As the season unfolds, Odermatt’s victory sets a competitive tone, signaling a thrilling year ahead in alpine skiing.