Although having poor snow at Val d'Isere could be considered
unfortunate, choosing resorts like Alta Badia, Kranjska
Gora, Jesna and Semmering in December looks like carelessness...
The problem is that the World Cup
circuit in Europe is struggling as it tries to find a resort
with reliable enough snow to run a full series of races.
The current Criterium de la
Premiere Neige - Val d'Isere's racing showpiece - is already
in danger of becoming a 'Premiere Slush'!
Although the Women's Super G took
place on Wednesday, their GS on Thursday was cancelled due
to poor snow conditions. The Men's Downhill and GS also
looks in danger. However, although one of the early practice
rounds was cancelled, more snow is forecast over the next
48 hours.
The Women's GS looks likely to be
relocated to Northern Italy, which with the Southern French
Alps is the only snow-sure Alpine area at present. Although
the situation could change over this weekend, of the locations
scheduled for the next few weeks only Sestriere looks certain
to go ahead.
[On a lighter note, it was vaguely reassuring
to note that Picabo Street, making her World Cup comeback
in Wednesday's SG, had to race in a borrowed helmet and
gear due to lost luggage. Street finished 34th in her first
race for over 2 1/2 years. After three days her luggage
still had not arrived. PIR form anyone?]
Previous FIS/World Cup articles:
World Cup Update
Maier wins and loses at Lake
Louise
Early British racing
success
British Team details
Official
World Cup Site
