World Cup Alpine Ski Racing at Crans-Montana
Friday saw some snowfall, but sadly it led to the cancellation of the Women’s Downhill race.
It followed several crashes including one to the current leader and favourite for Olympic gold – Lindsey Vonn.
It remains to be seen if she can take part in the Olympic Downhill next weekend.
The skies cleared overnight with glorious bluebird conditions on the Saturday and Sunday.
World Cup racing at Crans-Montana. Image © PlanetSKI
Crans-Montana went ahead with the World Cup races after much thought following the fire in a bar in the resort on New Year’s Eve.
Over the race weekend it was confirmed that another person had died from their injuries, taking the toll to 41.
Tributes were paid to those affected and changes were made to the schedule.
The finish area was stripped of its usual vibrant color and advertising.
Instead, white and black signs of mourning that read “Our thoughts are with you” in multiple languages were displayed.
“For the community of Crans-Montana, for the snow sports community, and for many others, sport and these World Cup races are sources of confidence and hope during this time of emotionally processing this tragedy,” says Diego Züger, Co-CEO Commercial of Swiss-Ski.
“We have fully supported the organization of these World Cup races from the very beginning, with a clear focus on the sporting aspect.”
Didier DĂ©fago, CEO of the Organizing Committee, said:
“Since New Year’s Eve, we have all been united in shock and grief; we will remember this tragedy for the rest of our lives.
“Swiss-Ski and the FIS share our conviction that sport can evoke many positive emotions and thoughts even under these circumstances.
Image c/o Crans-Montana.
Saturday saw Crans-Montana & Ayent local Malorie Blanc topping the podium in the Women’s Super G race for her maiden World Cup win.
Pre-race favourite Sofia Goggia from Italy and American Breezy Johnson took second and third respectively.
I based myself at the starting gate for the duration of the race.
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When Malorie Blanc crossed the finish line you could hear the roar all the way up the mountain
Understandably the capacity crowd went home very happy.
Sunday saw the men tackling the Downhill course with the best downhillers in competition.
Swiss legend Marco Odermatt failed to make the podium finishing fourth after dominating the event all season, which surprised the pundits and silenced the crowd
World Cup racing at Crans-Montana. Image © PlanetSKI
But this was only temporary.
Not to be outdone by Malorie Blanc, Franjo von Allmen made it a Swiss double by pipping Italian Dominik Paris and Ryan Cochran-Siegle of the United States into second and third place
GB skier Owen Vinter skied strongly and recorded the first World Cup Downhill finish of his career.
His achievement was warmly celebrated by the Swiss crowd.
World Cup racing at Crans-Montana. Image © PlanetSKI
In between the racing I was able to carve arcs on the superbly groomed and quiet pistes and ski fantastic un-tracked boot top powder across the resort from first lift right through to apres at Zerodix.
The extensive off piste is accessible straight from the lifts – no hiking or touring required – with the runs flowing down to join the pistes making for hassle free laps.
World Cup racing at Crans-Montana. Image © PlanetSKI
Crans-Montana sits on a sunny south-facing plateau at 1,500m with panoramic views over the Rhone Valley.
There are eighteen 4,000m peaks in view.
Crans-Montana, Switzerland. Image © PlanetSKI
More than just a resort, it is a lively area with 15,000 year-round residents, international schools, clinics, shops and an active cultural life.
Crans-Montana is a resort of contrasts that reflects a diverse identity:
- Sunshine and spectacular views
- High-level sport
- Family activities
- Cosmopolitan atmosphere
- Luxury and relaxation
If you’re looking for a very different Winter holiday experience I can unreservedly recommend World Cup weekend in Crans Montana.
World class racing, quiet slopes, and excellent dining & apres to suit all tastes.
I came for the racing but I’ll return for the skiing.
See here for more information on Crans-Montana.
Related Articles:
- Winter in Crans-Montana
- PlanetSKI reports from Crans-Montana
- Vail Resorts completes purchase of Crans-Montana lift company
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