Dry slope tests Grasski World Cup athletes in Rettenbach

Dry and slippery conditions made the Grasski World Cup races difficult at the weekend in Rettenbach in Burgenland’s Oberwart district, ORF reported. Three athletes from Burgenland competed in the home races, with contrasting results.

Twelve men failed to finish the first run, while only three women qualified for the second. Competition director Daniel Gschwandtner said the dry conditions had made the slope harder.

“The grass becomes very fast and slippery because the ground is so hard that you cannot get any grip with the skis. That makes it fast and slippery, which is a difficult combination,” Gschwandtner said.

Local athlete Emma Eberhardt from Bernstein was caught out by the conditions and fell in the first run.

Tina Hetfleisch, from Oberdorf, gave home fans something to celebrate. After finishing fourth on Saturday, she took second place on Sunday. Following strong results in recent races, Hetfleisch is now targeting the overall World Cup title.

“I have no pressure now because I am second in the overall World Cup. There are two races left in the World Cup final in Italy. I can take risks and see what happens,” Hetfleisch said.

Madeleine Schützenhofer was due to make her World Cup debut, but the 15 year old fell during training on Saturday and had to miss the home races.

The World Cup final in Italy will be the next opportunity for the three athletes from southern Burgenland.