Strong wind gusts cause the cancellation of the Val d’Isère slalom
Dec 09, 2018·Alpine Skiing
The Audi FIS Ski World Cup slalom of Val d’Isère had to be cancelled today due to very strong and inconstant wind gusts. Already yesterday, the jury decided to lower the start of the slalom, in order to avoid the exposed upper section and have a better chance to hold the race.
The course crew worked all night to remove the overnight snowfall and clean the course and despite warmer temperatures, the base was still there and the course conditions would have allowed a race.
The problem came from the wind. From early morning on, gusty winds were blowing in Val d’Isère and the forecast announced an increase during the day, approximately until 15:00. Also, the chairlift bringing athletes and course workers to the top had to stop running several during the morning hours and there was no guarantee it would work during the whole day.
In those conditions, it was impossible to hold the slalom of the Criterium de la Première neige in Val d’Isère. Winter definitely arrived in the Alps.
The men’s World Cup Tour now moves on to its Italian block, starting in Val Gardena / Gröden for a super-g and a downhill on Friday 14th December and Saturday 15th December.
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