Austrian starters for Ruka Nordic Opening named

The Austrian team has been the first to name their starters for the Ruka Nordic Opening and the mini that is on schedule for Nordic Combined. The athlete names were released during a final jumping training camp at Bergisel, Innsbruck.

- Franz-Josef Rehrl
- Martin Fritz
- Philipp Orter
- Lukas Greiderer
- Paul Gerstgraser
- Thomas Jöbstl
- Johannes Lamparter

Lukas Klapfer will be the eighth man on the team, even though recurring knee problems had plagued him in the last weeks. After a thorough examination, he received the doctor’s green light for the World Cup start.

“I had some problems with a bone bruise in my left knee which caused pain, especially when landing in ski jumping. I have undergone a final MRT examination, which showed that the bruise has receded and the knee is medically fine. I was very relieved and can now start into the new World Cup season with the comforting knowledge that my knee is okay. I will use the next days to work intensively on the muscular control of the knee. I am positive to be able to start into the season without pain and a handicap.”

Next to Mario Seidl, who is in rehab after his ACL tear sustained during the Summer Grand Prix in Planica, also team veteran Bernhard Gruber will not join the team in Ruka. Gruber is still impaired by the aftermath of a gastrointestinal infection and will most likely join the team in Lillehammer (NOR).