The U.S. Ski Team, including defending Soelden champions Lindsey Vonn and Ted Ligety spent Friday training on the World Cup race hill in Soelden, then met with journalists high on the Rettenbach glacier.

The opportunity to train on the race hill is a direct result of the team partnership with Soelden and the Oetztal Region, including Obergurgl-Hochgurgl.

In addition to prime training opportunities, the U.S. Ski Team also has an apartment house for use by all of its athletes.

Last week, Soelden passed the FIS snow test despite warm temperatures. Officials indicated the track will be watered starting Monday in order to firm up the surface for training and the opening of the World Cup schedule.

The World Cup season kicks off Oct. 27 with women's giant slalom, followed by the men's race on Oct. 28. The U.S. Ski Team will then return to the States to open training on the U.S. Ski Team Speed Center at Copper Mountain.

Photos: USSA/Mitchell Gunn
GM