Leading up to this year’s Lauberhorn World Cup Weekend there was lots of talk and speculation. Will it, won’t it run, are the conditions suitable?
Well, when we look back at last season’s conditions it was the exact same weather conditions, and yes leading up to the event the long-awaited snow arrived! Once again the civil defense and military personnel were clearing snow from the race track working all hours. The race track was in good condition prior to the snowfall and for the race, smooth and hard piste conditions are required thus the need to clear the fresh snow from the race piste.
If you have not been here at Lauberhorn weekend or seen the teams arriving in Wengen it is incredible how much equipment each team arrives with, as well as personal luggage they bring their own weights and stationary bikes, tuning equipment, and many pairs of skis.
The tennis courts and grass area were transformed into a venue area with a huge stage, shops, bars, and reception areas for entertaining guests.
Whilst all the race preparations were going on, we were still enjoying the skiing, conditions higher up were still wintry. The slopes have been challenging with icy pistes and often poor visibility. Johnny McIntyre has been the club leader for the first two weeks in January.
During the first 2 weeks of the year, we have had the occasional snowfall of 10cm – 15cm on the upper slopes.
The weather was overcast and windy at the Lauberhorn start hut but it did not deter the thousands of fans that came to spectate, they made their way up the mountain and to the finish arena to be entertained by the air display team before the start of the downhill race.
The World Cup racing consisted of a Super G on Friday, a shortened Downhill on Saturday, and Slalom on Sunday.
Aleksander Aamodt Kilde mastered the Lauberhorn race track and was the winner of both the Super G and Downhill!
On Sunday the Slalom got underway, the skies were overcast and the piste was softening and rutting with every racer. By the time the second run started in the afternoon, heavy wet snow was falling, making for challenging conditions and poor visibility. Henrik Kristoffersen wasn’t troubled by the challenging conditions taking first place making it a clean sweep for the Vikings.
A reminder for all members to please download the Proactively app from the DHO website
This gives you the ability to complete your disclaimer in advance, it also gives you quick access to SOS and Ski Leaders phone numbers and our feedback form.
Mark
Ski Club
Since 1925
