The focus is on an ÖSV whiz kid

So far this World Cup winter there has been little reason to celebrate Austrian men’s ski team. Three podium places are a meager return for an association that puts in as much effort as the ÖSV.

Definitely one of the winners this season Patrick Feurstein. The Vorarlberg native recently achieved the first podium finish of his career in the giant slalom in Val d’Isere.

Second place makes Feurstein want more and increases his anticipation for the giant slalom on Sunday in Alta Badia (10 a.m./1.30 p.m.).

“Val d’Isere hates me a lot of self-confidence given,” says the 28-year-old. “I’m really liberated and relaxed right now. That makes you fast when skiing.”

Alta Badia is experiencing a comeback and a premiere on Sunday. Marco Schwarz is competing in a World Cup giant slalom again for the first time after tearing his cruciate ligament and having a disc operation.

The Carinthian was eliminated in the second round of the Val d’Isere slalom a week ago. The journey home took more of a toll on him than the race. “The ten hours in the car were a strain on the body.”admits the 29-year-old.

Black feels ready for that Return to the giant slalom. During the week, the Austrian trained with his teammates on the World Cup slope in Saalbach-Hinterglemm. “I have to manage my strength, but I’m happy to be back in the giant slalom.”

While the Carinthian is celebrating a comeback, a teammate is making his World Cup debut. Raphael Riederer comes into the team for Lukas Feurstein, who has to miss a start after his metacarpal fracture.

“The goal is of course to qualify for the second round,” says the Lower Austrian. “Of course I also want to soak up all the impressions and enjoy my premiere.”