Austrians train with mountain summit trip

The Austrian men’s giant slalom and combined team concluded a recent training session by climbing the Grossglockner Thursday (July 8), the highest peak in Austria at 3,798 meters. Despite a decided lack of climbing experience the group, led by coaches and a guide, completed the climb in four hours.

“Most in our group are no great climbers,” said group coach Andreas Puelacher, who added the climb was a first for every athlete. “It was a wonderful experience and a real fascination to climb this mountain. Such a session is not only physically expedient, but also contributes significantly to team building.”

The athletes, including Stephan Goergl, Christoph Noesig, Hannes Reichelt, Florian Scheiber, Philip Schoerghofer and Bjoern Sieber described the ascent as well worth while.

“The panoramic view on the summit was just incredible,” said Goergl.

“I’m really proud to have climbed the highest mountain in Austria,” said Nosig.

“I have something checked off on my personal to-do list,” said Reichelt.

The same group recently completed an adrenalin charged climb in the Dolomites that included roping over intense waterfalls.

From the peak, left to right: Stephan Goergl, Philip Schoerghofer and Christoph Noesig. GEPA photo.